Oh my goodness, you have to try this air fryer bread pudding with bourbon! It’s my go-to dessert when I need something warm, comforting, and just a little bit fancy – but without all the fuss. I stumbled upon this version when I had some stale bread and wanted to jazz up my usual recipe. The bourbon adds this incredible depth of flavor that makes it taste like you spent hours in the kitchen, when really, your air fryer does most of the work!
What I love most is how the bread soaks up all that rich, spiced custard while the air fryer gives it the perfect golden crust. It’s like traditional bread pudding got a modern makeover – faster cooking time, crispier edges, and that wonderful bourbon kick. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never want to bake bread pudding any other way!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Bread Pudding Bourbon
Let me count the ways this dessert will steal your heart (and probably become your new favorite):
- Weeknight magic: Done in under 30 minutes – that’s faster than ordering dessert at a restaurant! The air fryer gives you that perfect golden top without heating up your whole kitchen.
- Bourbon bliss: That splash of bourbon? It’s the secret handshake that turns basic bread pudding into something special – warm, slightly caramel-like, and oh-so-comforting.
- No-fuss fancy: Looks impressive, tastes like you spent all day – but honestly? It’s just soaked bread and a quick air fry. (I won’t tell if you don’t!)
- Stale bread superhero: Turns that forgotten loaf into something you’ll actually crave. Waste not, want pudding!
The Must-Have Ingredients for Air Fryer Bread Pudding Bourbon
Okay, let’s talk ingredients – because this is where the magic starts! You’ll be shocked how simple this is. My golden rule? Use stale bread (day-old works best) because it soaks up that custard like a dream without turning mushy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups cubed stale bread – I use whatever I’ve got, from baguettes to brioche
- 2 large eggs – room temp blends smoother
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar – dark brown gives that caramel depth
- 1/4 cup bourbon – your favorite brand, but even the cheap stuff works!
- 2 cups whole milk – trust me, skim won’t give you that luscious texture
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – the good stuff, please!
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp nutmeg – warm spice perfection
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional) – I soak mine in bourbon first for extra oomph!
See? Nothing fancy – just pantry staples transformed into something extraordinary. Now let’s make some pudding!
How to Make Air Fryer Bread Pudding Bourbon
Now for the fun part – let’s transform these simple ingredients into something magical! I promise it’s easier than you think, and that heavenly smell filling your kitchen will make you feel like a baking pro.
Step 1: Prepare the Wet Mixture
Grab your favorite mixing bowl (mine’s the yellow one my mom gave me) and whisk together the milk, eggs, brown sugar, bourbon, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Don’t just stir – really whisk until it’s completely smooth and all that sugar dissolves. This custard base is what makes the bread pudding so luscious!
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Add your cubed bread and raisins (if using) to the bowl. Here’s my trick: fold gently with a rubber spatula until every piece is coated, but don’t smash it! Let it sit for 10 minutes – this soak time is crucial for maximum flavor absorption. You’ll see the bread plump up beautifully.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
While the bread soaks, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish well – I use butter for extra flavor. Pour in the soaked bread mixture, then air fry for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is gorgeously golden brown and the center springs back lightly when touched. That crispy top with the soft, custardy center? Absolute heaven!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Bread Pudding Bourbon
After making this recipe more times than I can count (oops!), I’ve learned a few tricks that take it from good to “Oh my gosh, can I have the recipe?” good:
- Stale is superior: That half-forgotten bread at the back of your pantry? Perfect! Fresh bread turns mushy, while day-old or lightly toasted bread holds its texture beautifully when soaked.
- Bourbon control: Nervous about the alcohol? Start with 2 tablespoons and taste – you can always add more! The flavor mellows as it cooks, leaving just warm, caramel notes.
- Serve it warm: Patience is hard (I know!), but letting it cool for 5-10 minutes lets the custard set properly. That first bite of warm, bourbon-kissed pudding? Worth the wait!
Variations for Air Fryer Bread Pudding Bourbon
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can switch it up! Here are some delicious twists we’ve loved:
- Family-friendly: Swap the bourbon for apple juice (or just leave it out) – still crazy delicious!
- Nutty goodness: Add 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch – toast them first for extra flavor.
- Spice it up: Try a pinch of cardamom or allspice with the cinnamon for something different.
- Chocolate fix: Toss in 1/4 cup chocolate chips with the bread – because chocolate makes everything better.
The best part? No matter how you change it, that air fryer still gives you that perfect crispy top every time!
Serving Suggestions
Oh honey, this bread pudding deserves a little extra love when serving! My absolute favorite? A big scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the warm pudding – that hot-cold combo is magic. Fresh whipped cream with a whisper of bourbon whipped in makes it feel extra special. For real indulgence, drizzle with a simple bourbon glaze (just powdered sugar, a splash of bourbon, and a touch of milk whisked together). Trust me, your spoon will thank you!
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers? (As if!) But if you somehow manage not to devour this all in one sitting, here’s how to keep it tasting amazing: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. When that craving hits again, just pop individual portions back in the air fryer at 300°F for 5-7 minutes – it crisps right back up like magic! Pro tip: Sprinkle a tiny bit of sugar on top before reheating for an extra-crispy caramelized crust.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on what’s in each delicious serving (about 1 slice): roughly 250 calories, 35g carbs, and 7g protein. But remember – these are estimates! Your exact numbers will dance a bit depending on your bread choice, milk fat percentage, and how generous you are with that bourbon pour. (No judgment here!)
FAQ
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
Oh honey, I know it’s tempting – but trust me, stale bread works SO much better! Fresh bread turns mushy when soaked, while day-old bread holds its texture beautifully. If you’re in a pinch, toast fresh bread cubes lightly first to dry them out a bit. That crispy-tender texture is worth the wait!
How strong is the bourbon flavor?
Don’t worry – it’s not like taking a shot! The alcohol cooks off, leaving just those warm, caramel-like notes that make this pudding special. Start with 2 tablespoons if you’re nervous – you can always add more next time. My husband (who doesn’t usually like bourbon) gobbles this up!
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your baking dish still fits in the air fryer with some room for air circulation. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time – check for that perfect golden top and set center. Pro tip: Double the bourbon too… because why not?
Irresistible Air Fryer Bread Pudding Bourbon in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make bread pudding with a twist, cooked in an air fryer and flavored with bourbon for a rich taste.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed stale bread
- 2 cups milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, bourbon, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add bread cubes and raisins (if using) to the mixture, stirring gently to coat.
- Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to soak.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish that fits in your air fryer.
- Air fry for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use stale bread for best results.
- Adjust bourbon quantity to taste.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: air fryer bread pudding, bourbon dessert, easy bread pudding