You know those days when you have just a few leftover croissants sitting around, slightly past their prime but still begging to be used? That’s exactly how my love affair with this croissant bread pudding delicious recipe began—pure kitchen desperation turned into a happy accident. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug, effortlessly turning stale pastries into something rich, custardy, and downright magical. The best part? It’s so simple you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along. Trust me, one bite of this golden, buttery goodness, and you’ll be hooked.
Why You’ll Love This Croissant Bread Pudding Delicious Recipe
This recipe isn’t just good—it’s the kind of dessert that makes people sneak second helpings when they think no one’s looking. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Effortless magic: Stale croissants? No problem. They transform into something incredible with just a few pantry staples.
- Rich, cozy flavor: The buttery croissants soak up the custard like little sponges, creating layers of comfort in every bite.
- Flexible friend: Breakfast? Dessert? Midnight snack? It fits every occasion (no judgment here).
- Forgiving nature: Even if you’re not a precise baker, this pudding turns out delicious every single time.
Seriously, it’s the dessert equivalent of your favorite sweatpants—comfortable, reliable, and always a good idea.
Ingredients for Croissant Bread Pudding Delicious Recipe
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this little slice of heaven. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 large croissants – Day-old is actually better here! Cut them into 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups total). The slightly stale texture soaks up the custard like a dream.
- 2 cups whole milk – Don’t skimp here; the richness makes all the difference.
- 3 large eggs – These bind everything together into that perfect custard texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Just enough sweetness to balance the richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – The flavor booster that makes it smell like a bakery.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – A tiny pinch to make all the flavors pop.
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional) – I love them, but leave them out if you’re not a fan.
- 1 tablespoon butter – For greasing your baking dish (trust me, you want that golden crust).
That’s it! Simple, right? Most of these are probably already in your kitchen.
How to Make Croissant Bread Pudding Delicious Recipe
Okay, let’s get to the fun part – turning those ingredients into golden, custardy perfection! Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dessert that’ll make everyone think you’re a pastry chef.
Step 1: Prep the Croissants and Baking Dish
First things first – grab those croissants and tear them into rough 1-inch chunks with your hands (or cut them if you’re feeling fancy). I like uneven pieces because they create wonderful texture contrasts in the final pudding. Now, butter up your baking dish – really get into the corners! An 8×8 inch square dish works perfectly here.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt until it’s completely smooth. No need to break out the mixer – a fork or whisk does the job just fine. The mixture should look like sweet, golden sunshine. Pro tip: Let your eggs come to room temperature first – they’ll blend much easier!
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Now, pour that glorious custard over your croissant pieces in the baking dish. Gently press down with a spoon to help them soak up all that liquid goodness. If you’re using raisins, sprinkle them evenly over the top now. Let it sit for about 10 minutes – this soaking time is crucial for that perfect texture!
Pop it into your preheated 350°F oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is beautifully golden brown and the center springs back lightly when touched. If you’re unsure, insert a knife near the center – it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving (if you can wait that long!). The smell will drive you crazy, but trust me, it’s worth it – this resting time lets the custard set perfectly.
Tips for the Best Croissant Bread Pudding Delicious Recipe
After making this recipe more times than I can count, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it from good to “Oh my goodness, what IS this?!” Here are my must-know tips:
- Stale is your friend – Day-old croissants absorb the custard better without turning mushy. No stale ones? Toast fresh croissants lightly first.
- Don’t rush the soak – That 10-minute rest lets every piece drink up the custard properly for perfect texture throughout.
- Bake until golden, not dark brown – It keeps cooking slightly after coming out, so pull it when the edges bubble and the top is lightly tanned.
- Test with a butter knife – Insert it near the center; if it comes out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), it’s done.
- Let it rest before serving – 10 minutes of cooling lets the custard set so you get clean slices rather than a runny mess.
Follow these, and you’ll have people begging for your secret!
Variations for Croissant Bread Pudding Delicious Recipe
Oh, the possibilities! This recipe is like a blank canvas waiting for your creative touches. Here are some of my favorite twists:
- Chocolate lovers: Swap raisins for chocolate chips or chunks—melted chocolate pockets take this to dessert heaven.
- Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the custard for cozy warmth.
- Berry bliss: Toss in fresh blueberries or raspberries before baking for bursts of fruity freshness.
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for texture contrast.
The best part? You can mix and match these ideas—just don’t overload the pudding or it won’t set properly. Have fun with it!
Serving Suggestions
Oh, let me tell you how I love to serve this croissant bread pudding—still warm from the oven, of course! A dollop of freshly whipped cream melting into the golden top is absolute perfection. Feeling fancy? Vanilla ice cream turns it into instant decadence. For breakfast (yes, I said breakfast), fresh berries add just the right bright contrast to all that buttery richness. Honestly, it’s delicious plain too—I won’t judge if you eat it straight from the pan!
Storage and Reheating
Here’s the beautiful thing about this croissant bread pudding—it keeps wonderfully! Just cover the baking dish with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, I pop individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds until warm, or for that just-baked crispness, reheat the whole dish in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Pro tip: Sprinkle a little sugar on top before reheating for an extra caramelized crust!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s be real—this croissant bread pudding isn’t health food, but everything in moderation, right? These numbers are estimates based on my exact recipe (with raisins), but your mileage may vary depending on ingredients. Per generous serving (about 1/6th of the recipe):
- 320 calories – Worth every single one!
- 14g fat – Mostly from those buttery croissants
- 42g carbs – Comfort food at its finest
- 8g protein – Thanks to the eggs and milk
- 25g sugar – Sweet but not overwhelming
Remember, these values change if you tweak ingredients—using skim milk or omitting raisins will adjust things. But honestly? Some desserts are meant to be enjoyed, not analyzed!
FAQs About Croissant Bread Pudding Delicious Recipe
Q1. Can I use fresh croissants instead of stale ones?
Absolutely! Fresh croissants work fine—just toast them lightly at 300°F for 5-7 minutes first to dry them out slightly. This prevents them from turning mushy when soaked in custard.
Q2. How do I prevent my bread pudding from getting soggy?
The secret is in the soak time—10 minutes is perfect. Any longer and the croissants may break down too much. Also, make sure your oven is fully preheated so the custard sets quickly.
Q3. Can I make this ahead of time?
You bet! Assemble it up to 24 hours ahead—just cover and refrigerate before baking. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be cold from the fridge.
Q4. What’s the best way to tell when it’s done baking?
Look for golden edges and a slightly puffed center that springs back when gently pressed. The knife test works too—a few moist crumbs are good, wet batter means it needs more time.
Q5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 300°F oven for best texture.
Variations for Croissant Bread Pudding Delicious Recipe
If you are looking for other creative ways to use up pastries, check out this air fryer rocky road danish recipe for inspiration.
Share Your Experience
Did you try this croissant bread pudding? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a note below with your twists or tips—your ideas might just become someone else’s new favorite version.
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Irresistible Croissant Bread Pudding Recipe in Just 4 Steps
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful croissant bread pudding recipe that transforms day-old croissants into a rich, comforting dessert.
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants, cut into cubes
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Place the croissant cubes in the prepared baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt.
- Pour the mixture over the croissants. Press down lightly to soak.
- Add raisins if using. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and set.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use stale croissants for better texture.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: croissant bread pudding, easy dessert, French recipe