Bread Pudding with Butter Rum Sauce

Name: Bread Pudding with Butter Rum Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 cups of cubed stale bread; 4 large eggs; 2 cups of whole milk; 1 cup of heavy cream; 3/4 cup of granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1/2 cup of raisins (optional); 1/2 cup of unsalted butter; 1 cup of brown sugar; 1/2 cup of heavy cream; 1/4 cup of dark rum; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

A deliciously comforting dessert, Bread Pudding with Butter Rum Sauce is the perfect way to use up leftover bread. This indulgent treat combines warm, custardy bread with a rich rum-infused sauce that elevates it to a whole new level.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T16:58:02.911Z

This bread pudding is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. The buttery rum sauce drizzled on top adds a delightful richness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, custardy texture that's irresistibly comforting
Rich butter rum sauce that takes it to the next level
Easily adaptable with your favorite bread and toppings

      

The Perfect Use for Leftover Bread

Bread pudding is a classic dessert that dates back centuries, making it a beloved staple in many households. This dish is an excellent way to repurpose stale bread, turning something that might otherwise go to waste into a warm, comforting treat. By using leftover bread, you're not only minimizing food waste but also creating a dessert that feels indulgent and satisfying.

The versatility of bread pudding means you can experiment with different types of bread. Whether you opt for a rich brioche, hearty whole grain, or even a sweet challah, each will bring its unique flavor and texture to the dish. This flexibility allows you to tailor the recipe to your taste and make it your own.

Elevating Your Dessert with Butter Rum Sauce

What sets this bread pudding apart is the luxurious butter rum sauce that drizzles over each serving. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and dark rum creates a rich and decadent topping that complements the warm, custardy bread perfectly. This sauce elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality dessert that you can easily make at home.

By using dark rum, you'll infuse your sauce with deep, complex flavors that enhance the overall experience. The sauce can be made in just a few minutes while the pudding bakes, making it a convenient addition to your dessert preparation. Drizzling it over the pudding just before serving ensures each bite is a delightful combination of flavors.

Customizing Your Bread Pudding

One of the great things about this bread pudding recipe is its adaptability. While the base ingredients provide a wonderful foundation, you can easily personalize it by adding your favorite mix-ins. Consider incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or seasonal fruits like apples or cranberries to make the dish truly your own.

Additionally, you can experiment with different spices beyond cinnamon, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to create unique flavor profiles. If you're looking for a more decadent experience, top the bread pudding with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

6 cups of cubed stale bread
4 large eggs
2 cups of whole milk
1 cup of heavy cream
3/4 cup of granulated sugar
1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 cup of raisins (optional)

For the Butter Rum Sauce

1/2 cup of unsalted butter
1 cup of brown sugar
1/2 cup of heavy cream
1/4 cup of dark rum
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Bread Pudding

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the cubed bread and let it soak for about 15 minutes.

If using, add the raisins and mix gently.

Bake the Pudding

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Butter Rum Sauce

While the pudding is baking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

Remove from heat and stir in the rum and vanilla.

Serve

Once the bread pudding is done, let it cool slightly before serving. Drizzle the warm butter rum sauce over each portion and enjoy!

Serve warm for the best experience!

Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding

To ensure your bread pudding turns out perfectly, it's essential to use the right bread. Stale bread is key, as it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming overly soggy. If you don't have stale bread on hand, you can dry fresh bread in the oven for a few minutes at a low temperature.

Another tip is to let the mixture soak long enough before baking. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a moist and flavorful dessert. If you're short on time, a minimum of 15 minutes should suffice, but letting it sit for 30 minutes or more will yield even better results.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for a quick fix or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist.

For longer storage, consider freezing the bread pudding before adding the butter rum sauce. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?

Using stale bread is recommended as it absorbs the custard better, but you can use fresh bread if that's all you have.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding mixture a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate, then bake it the next day.

→ What can I substitute for dark rum?

If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with additional vanilla extract or a non-alcoholic rum flavoring.