We’ve always been fans of bread pudding, that cozy dessert transforming simple stale bread into something magical and irresistible. Our Golden Nugget Bread Pudding recipe takes it up a notch with its golden crust and rich flavors, perfect for family gatherings or a sweet weekend treat.
This classic dish draws from traditional roots but adds a modern twist we adore. It’s easy to whip up and offers that comforting nostalgia with every bite, making it a go-to favorite in our kitchen.
Ingredients
For our Golden Nugget Bread Pudding, we’ve curated a simple yet flavorful list of ingredients that deliver that signature golden crust and rich, comforting flavors. We order them here as they’ll be used in preparation, with specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy.
- Bread: 6 cups of day-old brioche or French bread, torn into 1-inch cubes for even absorption.
- Eggs: 4 large eggs, whisked lightly to bind the custard base.
- Milk: 2 cups whole milk, combined with half-and-half for creaminess.
- Half-and-Half: 1 cup half-and-half, to enhance the silky texture of the pudding.
- Sugar: 1 cup granulated sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for sprinkling on top to create the golden crust.
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, for a warm, aromatic depth.
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, freshly ground if possible to add a spicy note that complements the golden hues.
- Nutmeg: ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, for a subtle, nutty twist that evokes tradition.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted to coat the baking dish and add richness.
- Raisins or Nuts: ½ cup golden raisins or chopped pecans, optional but recommended for added texture and a nod to the “nugget” element in our recipe.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Golden Nugget Bread Pudding seamlessly after gathering the ingredients, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure even mixing, precise baking, and that signature golden crust. Let’s outline the key equipment we need, emphasizing items that enhance efficiency and flavor development.
- Large Mixing Bowl: We use this 4- to 6-quart bowl to combine eggs, milk, and bread cubes thoroughly, preventing lumps and ensuring a uniform custard base.
- Whisk: A medium-sized wire whisk helps us beat the eggs and incorporate air for a light, fluffy texture in our pudding mixture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons Set: Accurate measurements are crucial, so we recommend a standard set including 1-cup, ½-cup, and ¼-cup measures, plus spoons for smaller quantities like teaspoons of vanilla or cinnamon.
- 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: This oven-safe dish, ideally glass or ceramic, allows our pudding to bake evenly and achieve that irresistible golden top while holding about 8-10 servings.
- Oven: A conventional or convection oven preheated to 350°F is essential for baking the pudding to perfection, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting, aromatic treat.
- Rubber Spatula: We employ this flexible tool to scrape down bowl sides and fold in add-ins like golden raisins, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
- Cutting Board and Serrated Knife: For cubing the day-old bread, we use a sturdy board and a sharp knife to create even pieces that absorb flavors optimally.
By having these tools ready, we streamline the process and focus on creating a dish that delights with its warm, caramelized edges and rich, nostalgic flavors.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients measured and equipment prepped, let’s transform them into our irresistible Golden Nugget Bread Pudding, complete with its signature caramelized edges and warm, comforting flavors.
Prep
First, we gather and prepare the components to ensure everything blends seamlessly. Start by cubing 6 cups of day-old brioche or French bread into 1-inch pieces on a cutting board using a serrated knife, yielding about 8-10 cups once fluffed for that perfect crispy-yet-absorbent texture.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, we crack 4 large eggs and whisk them vigorously with 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of half-and-half until the mixture is smooth and velvety, taking about 1-2 minutes to incorporate air for a lighter pudding. Add 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, whisking until fully dissolved to create a rich, aromatic base that promises those nostalgic, spiced notes.
If using optional additions, stir in ½ cup of golden raisins or ½ cup of chopped pecans at this stage to enhance the “nugget” texture, ensuring even distribution for pockets of delightful crunch in every bite.
Assemble
With our prepped ingredients ready, we now assemble the pudding in a 9×13 inch baking dish greased lightly with butter for easy release. Begin by spreading the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the dish, then pour the egg-milk mixture over it slowly, using a rubber spatula to press the bread down gently so it absorbs the liquid fully, resulting in a moist, flavorful interior.
Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the flavors, creating that signature golden hue and soft, pudding-like consistency. For added visual appeal, sprinkle an extra ¼ cup of sugar on top to promote a glistening, caramelized crust that evokes the warmth of family gatherings.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F as noted in our equipment list, ensuring even heat for optimal results. Place the assembled baking dish in the center of the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top turns a deep golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of spiced sweetness.
To check for doneness, we monitor the internal temperature; it should reach 160°F for food safety, preventing any risk of undercooking while achieving that perfect, crispy exterior and tender core. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld for an unforgettable treat.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Golden Nugget Bread Pudding is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare it in advance to save time while preserving that signature golden crust and rich, comforting flavors. This approach ensures the bread fully absorbs the custard mixture, enhancing texture and taste when you’re ready to bake.
Preparing the Pudding Ahead of Time
Follow these steps to assemble the pudding up to 24 hours in advance:
- Cube and soak the bread: After cubing the 6 cups of day-old brioche or French bread as outlined in our earlier steps, place it in the greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Whisk together the 4 large eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of half-and-half, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a large mixing bowl. If adding optional ingredients like golden raisins or chopped pecans, stir them in now. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is coated. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate for optimal soaking: Transfer the covered dish to the refrigerator and let it sit for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours. This step allows the bread to absorb the flavors fully, resulting in a moist, nugget-like texture that’s signature to our Golden Nugget Bread Pudding.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To maintain freshness and safety, we recommend the following guidelines:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (assembled, unbaked) | Up to 24 hours | Keep covered in the fridge at 40°F or below to prevent bacterial growth. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to reach room temperature for even cooking. |
| Baked and refrigerated | Up to 3 days | After baking, cool completely, then cover and store in the fridge. Reheat individual portions in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. |
| Frozen (baked) | Up to 2 months | Wrap baked pudding tightly in freezer-safe material. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to restore the golden crust. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure our Golden Nugget Bread Pudding remains a hassle-free favorite for family gatherings or weekend treats, delivering that nostalgic warmth every time.
Conclusion
We’ve shared our Golden Nugget Bread Pudding recipe to bring a touch of warmth to your kitchen. It’s more than a dish—it’s a simple way to create lasting memories with loved ones.
We’re confident you’ll love how easy it is to customize and enjoy. Give it a try and let it become one of your go-to treats for those special moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Golden Nugget Bread Pudding?
Golden Nugget Bread Pudding is a comforting dessert with a golden crust and rich flavors, blending traditional roots with a modern twist. It’s made from day-old bread soaked in a creamy egg mixture, baked to perfection, and often includes add-ins like raisins or pecans. Ideal for family gatherings, it evokes nostalgia and is easy to prepare at home.
What ingredients are needed for Golden Nugget Bread Pudding?
You’ll need 6 cups of day-old brioche or French bread, 4 large eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of half-and-half, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and optional items like golden raisins or chopped pecans. These ingredients create a rich, textured pudding with balanced flavors—measure accurately for the best results.
What equipment is required to make Golden Nugget Bread Pudding?
Essential equipment includes a large mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a 9×13 inch baking dish, and an oven preheated to 350°F. A rubber spatula and serrated knife for cubing bread are also useful. This setup ensures smooth preparation and helps achieve the pudding’s signature golden texture.
How do you prepare Golden Nugget Bread Pudding?
Start by cubing the bread and whisking together eggs, milk, half-and-half, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Mix in optional add-ins, combine with bread, let it soak, then bake in a 9×13 dish at 350°F until golden brown. Monitor the internal temperature for safety—it takes about 45-50 minutes for a warm, nostalgic treat.
Can you make Golden Nugget Bread Pudding ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to 24 hours in advance by cubing the bread, mixing the wet ingredients, assembling in the dish, and refrigerating. This allows flavors to meld. For unbaked pudding, bake when ready; for baked, reheat in the oven. It’s perfect for busy schedules while keeping that fresh, comforting taste.
How should you store and reheat Golden Nugget Bread Pudding?
Store unbaked pudding covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours or baked pudding in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat baked portions in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave for quick servings. Always ensure it’s heated to a safe temperature to maintain freshness and texture.