Bread Pudding with Butter Rum Sauce

Name: Bread Pudding with Butter Rum Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 cups of day-old bread, cubed; 2 cups of milk; 4 large eggs; 1 cup of granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon 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: Sweet Treats

Delight in the comforting flavors of this classic Bread Pudding with a rich Butter Rum Sauce that takes it to the next level.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-02T18:51:02.086Z

This Bread Pudding with Butter Rum Sauce is a wonderful way to use up stale bread while creating a delicious dessert that everyone will love. The warm, comforting texture combined with the sweet, boozy sauce makes it a perfect treat for gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, comforting flavors perfect for chilly evenings
Decadent Butter Rum Sauce that elevates the dish
Easy to prepare and great for using up leftover bread

      

The Comfort of Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is a beloved dessert that evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth. This dish transforms leftover bread into a heavenly treat that is both satisfying and indulgent. The combination of custard-soaked bread with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla creates a rich flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dessert after dinner or as a sweet breakfast option, bread pudding has a special place in the hearts of many.

The beauty of bread pudding lies in its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or seasonal fruits. This adaptability not only enhances the flavor but also makes it a fantastic way to reduce food waste. Instead of discarding stale bread, you can transform it into a delightful treat that your family will love.

Decadent Butter Rum Sauce

The Butter Rum Sauce is the crowning glory of this bread pudding recipe. This rich, velvety sauce is made by melting butter and brown sugar together, creating a caramel-like base that pairs perfectly with the soft, custardy pudding. The addition of dark rum adds depth and warmth, making each drizzle a luxurious experience. This sauce not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the presentation, making your dessert look and taste gourmet.

Drizzling the warm Butter Rum Sauce over the bread pudding just before serving creates a delightful contrast between the warm, fluffy pudding and the rich, creamy sauce. It’s the perfect finishing touch for a dish that is already comforting and delicious. Whether served at a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this sauce is sure to impress and leave everyone wanting more.

Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding

To achieve the best results with your bread pudding, it's essential to use day-old bread. Fresh bread can become overly soggy, while stale bread soaks up the custard mixture beautifully, resulting in a perfect texture. French bread, brioche, or challah are excellent choices that add richness and flavor. If you're using a sweeter bread, consider reducing the sugar in the recipe slightly to balance the flavors.

Another tip for enhancing your bread pudding is to experiment with spices. While cinnamon is a classic choice, adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice can introduce a new level of warmth and complexity. Additionally, don’t shy away from adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or seasonal fruits, such as apples or pears, to create a unique variation that suits your taste.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

6 cups of day-old bread, cubed
2 cups of milk
4 large eggs
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 teaspoon 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

Mix the ingredients thoroughly before baking for a perfect texture.

Instructions

Prepare the Bread Pudding

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the raisins if using. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid.

Bake the Pudding

Pour the bread 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, combine the butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until melted and combined. Add the heavy cream, rum, and vanilla extract, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Serve

Once the bread pudding is done, let it cool slightly, then serve warm drizzled with the Butter Rum Sauce. Enjoy!

Serve warm for the best flavor experience.

Storing and Reheating Bread Pudding

If you have leftovers, storing bread pudding is easy. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

For best results, consider reheating the bread pudding covered with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. If you like, you can add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to maintain moisture and enhance the custard consistency. Enjoying it warm with a fresh drizzle of Butter Rum Sauce will bring back that comforting aroma and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Bread pudding is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the experience further with a few serving suggestions. Consider topping each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm pudding, creating a delightful sensory experience.

For a touch of freshness, serve the pudding alongside a fruit compote or a sprinkle of fresh berries. This not only adds color to your plate but also complements the sweetness of the bread pudding and Butter Rum Sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will make your bread pudding a standout dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old?

Yes, but be sure to slightly dry it out first to prevent the pudding from becoming too soggy.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pudding mixture a day ahead and bake it just before serving.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic version of the sauce?

Yes! You can substitute the dark rum with an equal amount of vanilla extract or a non-alcoholic rum flavoring.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can top it with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or even fresh fruit for added flavor.