We’ve always been fans of comforting desserts that evoke nostalgia, and Famous Dave’s bread pudding stands out as a true classic. Hailing from the iconic BBQ chain this recipe captures the warm essence of homemade treats with its rich blend of flavors and textures.
In our kitchen we’ve recreated this crowd-pleaser to make it accessible for everyone. It’s the perfect way to indulge in a slice of Americana while impressing family and friends with minimal effort.
Ingredients
To recreate the comforting flavors of Famous Dave’s Bread Pudding, we start with these key ingredients, listed in the order we use them. This ensures a seamless preparation process while capturing the nostalgic essence of this classic dessert.
- Bread: 1 loaf (about 12 ounces) of day-old French or brioche bread, torn into 1-inch pieces for even absorption of the custard mixture.
- Eggs: 4 large eggs, beaten to bind the pudding and create its signature creamy texture.
- Milk: 2 cups of whole milk, warmed slightly to help dissolve flavors and achieve a rich, velvety base.
- Sugar: 1 cup of granulated sugar, measured precisely to balance sweetness without overpowering the spices.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract, added for its aromatic depth that enhances the overall warmth.
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, freshly ground if possible, to infuse a cozy spice that echoes the BBQ chain’s comforting profile.
- Nutmeg: ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, grated for a subtle, earthy note that complements the bread’s heartiness.
- Raisins: ½ cup of golden raisins, soaked in warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up before mixing in.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted, to brush on top for a golden, crisp finish.
- Optional Add-ins: ¼ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted lightly, for added crunch if we want to elevate the texture.
Equipment Needed
After selecting our key ingredients for Famous Dave’s Bread Pudding, we turn our attention to the essential tools that ensure a seamless preparation process. Having the right equipment on hand allows us to achieve that signature comforting texture and flavor with confidence and ease.
To make this recipe, gather the following items. We’ve organized them in the order they’ll be used, with brief notes on their importance:
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch rectangular baking dish is ideal for even heat distribution, helping create the pudding’s golden, caramelized top without overcooking the edges.
- Mixing Bowls: Use at least two medium-sized stainless steel or glass mixing bowls—one for combining dry ingredients like bread cubes and spices, and another for wet ingredients to prevent cross-contamination.
- Whisk: A sturdy wire whisk is crucial for blending eggs, milk, and extracts into a smooth, lump-free custard base, ensuring every bite is perfectly creamy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Opt for a standard set of precise measuring tools to accurately portion ingredients like sugar and spices, which directly impacts the dessert’s balanced sweetness and flavor profile.
- Oven: A conventional preheated oven set to 350°F is necessary for baking, as it provides the consistent heat required to transform the mixture into a moist, tender pudding in about 45-50 minutes.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A heat-resistant silicone spatula or wooden spoon comes in handy for gently folding in additions like raisins and stirring the mixture, minimizing breakage of the bread pieces.
With these tools assembled, we’re fully prepared to move forward and bring our Famous Dave’s Bread Pudding to life.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential equipment, let’s walk through the steps to recreate the comforting, nostalgic flavors of Famous Dave’s Bread Pudding. We promise a straightforward process that yields a warm, indulgent dessert with a soft, custardy interior and hints of cinnamon spice.
Prepare the Bread
First, we start by prepping the day-old French or brioche bread to ensure it absorbs the custard mixture perfectly for that signature moist texture. Gather 6 cups of cubed bread (cut into 1-inch pieces) and spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Lightly toast the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or until it turns golden and slightly crisp. This step removes excess moisture, allowing the bread to soak up flavors without becoming soggy, resulting in a delightful contrast of crunchy edges and tender centers.
Make the Custard Mixture
Next, we create the heart of the pudding—a rich, creamy custard that infuses every bite with sweet, aromatic notes. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined—about 2 minutes of vigorous whisking. Be sure to incorporate air for a lighter custard that coats the bread beautifully, evoking the warm, spicy aroma that makes this dessert so irresistible.
Assemble the Pudding
With our components ready, we now layer everything in a 9×13 inch baking dish to build the pudding’s comforting structure. Place the prepared bread cubes into the baking dish, then pour the custard mixture evenly over the top, ensuring each piece is fully soaked—use a heat-resistant spatula to gently press the bread down. Stir in ½ cup of golden raisins and, if desired, ¼ cup of chopped pecans for added crunch and nutty flavor. This assembly creates a harmonious blend where the bread absorbs the custard, promising a soft, flavorful pudding with bursts of sweetness and texture that captures the essence of Famous Dave’s original.
Bake the Bread Pudding
Finally, we bake the assembled pudding to achieve a golden, caramelized finish that releases an inviting aroma of vanilla and spices throughout your kitchen. Preheat the oven to 350°F and place the dish on the middle rack for even heat distribution. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean—rotate the dish halfway through for uniform baking. As it bakes, the pudding will develop a crisp exterior while staying moist inside, delivering the comforting, homey taste that makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser. Once done, let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To help you enjoy our recreation of Famous Dave’s Bread Pudding without last-minute rush, we offer these practical steps for preparing components in advance. This approach maintains the dessert’s comforting, custardy texture and aromatic flavors while fitting into your schedule.
Preparing Ingredients Ahead
We suggest prepping key elements up to 24 hours before baking to preserve freshness and enhance flavors:
- Bread Cubes: Cube your day-old French or brioche bread as outlined in the preparation section, then spread them on a baking sheet. Lightly toast them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to achieve a crisp exterior that absorbs the custard beautifully. Store the cooled cubes in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Custard Mixture: Whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg in a mixing bowl. Transfer the mixture to a sealed container and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This allows the spices to infuse deeply, resulting in a richer, more indulgent aroma when baked.
- Add-Ins: If using golden raisins or optional nuts like chopped pecans, rinse and dry the raisins, then combine them with the nuts in a separate bag or container. Keep them chilled to prevent sogginess, ensuring they add a perfect burst of sweetness and crunch to the final dish.
Assembling in Advance
For seamless assembly, we recommend combining ingredients ahead but delaying baking:
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the bread cubes and add-ins as described in the main preparation steps.
- Pour the refrigerated custard mixture evenly over the layers, ensuring every piece is coated for that signature soft, golden-brown finish.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. This step lets the bread soak up the custard, amplifying the warm, nostalgic flavors of Famous Dave’s Bread Pudding.
Baking and Reheating Tips
- From Refrigerated: Remove the dish from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature, preventing uneven cooking. Bake as per the original instructions at 350°F until golden and set.
- For Fully Baked Ahead: If you bake the entire pudding in advance, cool it completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, place portions in a preheated 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, restoring the crisp exterior and velvety interior without drying it out.
| Advance Prep Step | Maximum Time Ahead | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Prep bread cubes | 24 hours | Maintains crisp texture for better absorption |
| Make custard mixture | 24 hours | Enhances flavor infusion |
| Full assembly (unbaked) | 8 hours | Allows flavors to meld seamlessly |
| Fully baked and stored | 2 days | Preserves freshness for easy serving |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how to recreate Famous Dave’s bread pudding in your own kitchen. It’s a simple way to capture that comforting nostalgia and create memorable moments with loved ones.
By following our tips, you’ll enjoy a dessert that’s as rewarding to make as it is to savor. Give it a try and let this classic become a staple in your home baking repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Famous Dave’s bread pudding?
Famous Dave’s bread pudding is a classic, nostalgic dessert from the BBQ chain, known for its comforting flavors and textures. It features a rich custard base with cubed bread, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and additions like golden raisins, creating a warm, indulgent treat that evokes Americana vibes.
What ingredients are needed for Famous Dave’s bread pudding recipe?
Key ingredients include day-old French or brioche bread, eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and golden raisins. Optional add-ins like chopped pecans or walnuts enhance texture. Use these in the specified order for the best results, keeping preparation simple and effective.
What equipment is required to make Famous Dave’s bread pudding?
You’ll need a 9×13 inch baking dish for even baking, mixing bowls for ingredients, a sturdy whisk for the custard, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a preheated oven at 350°F, and a heat-resistant spatula for mixing. These tools ensure the perfect texture and flavor.
How do I prepare Famous Dave’s bread pudding?
Start by cubing and toasting the bread. Mix a rich custard with eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Layer the bread with custard, raisins, and optional nuts in a baking dish, then bake at 350°F until golden brown. Let it cool briefly for enhanced flavors, resulting in a soft interior and crisp exterior.
Can I make Famous Dave’s bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, prep bread cubes and custard up to 24 hours in advance to save time. Assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 8 hours to let flavors meld. For baking, follow the recipe; reheat refrigerated versions in the oven to maintain texture and warmth.
How should I store and reheat Famous Dave’s bread pudding?
Store baked pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds. This keeps the custardy interior soft and the exterior crisp.
Are there variations to the Famous Dave’s bread pudding recipe?
You can add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or substitute ingredients like using almond milk for dairy-free options. Experiment with spices, but stick to the core recipe for authentic flavors. Always ensure even baking for the best results.