Whiskey Caramel Bread Pudding Recipe

If there’s one dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, it’s this Whiskey Caramel Bread Pudding. Combining the rich, custardy texture of classic bread pudding with a luscious caramel sauce infused with just the right splash of whiskey, this dish elevates comfort food to pure magic. It’s perfect for sharing with friends, impressing family, or simply treating yourself to something timelessly delicious and indulgent. The Whiskey Caramel Bread Pudding has that perfect balance of sweet, boozy, and buttery flavors that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, well-chosen ingredients is the foundation of this recipe’s incredible flavor and texture. Each element plays a unique role to create a bread pudding that’s both creamy and rich, with a buttery caramel drizzle that shines.

• Brioche or French bread (6 cups, cubed): Slightly stale bread works best to soak up the custard mixture perfectly without turning mushy.
• Whole milk (2 cups): Adds creaminess and moisture to the custard.
• Heavy cream (1 cup plus ½ cup for sauce): Boosts richness and gives the pudding a silky texture.
• Brown sugar (¾ cup for pudding, 1 cup for sauce): Imparts a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the whiskey beautifully.
• Large eggs (3): Bind everything together and create that custard base everyone loves.
• Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon plus ½ teaspoon for sauce): Adds a fragrant warmth and enhances all the sweet flavors.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) and Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Infuse the pudding with cozy, spiced notes that feel like autumn in a bite.
• Chopped pecans (½ cup, optional): Bring a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the soft pudding.
• Butter (½ cup): Essential for the caramel sauce’s luscious texture and flavor.
• Whiskey (¼ cup): The star ingredient in the caramel sauce, lending a spirited kick and depth.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.

How to Make Whiskey Caramel Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prep and Soak the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish – this ensures your pudding will bake evenly without sticking. Place your cubed brioche or French bread into a large bowl, ready to soak up the custard. This soaking step is the secret to that perfect custardy texture.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and fragrant. This mixture will soon transform your bread cubes into the coziest dessert you’ve tasted all year.

Step 3: Combine and Rest

Pour the custard gently over the cubed bread and fold together with care, making sure every piece gets a good soak. Let it rest for about 10 minutes — this is when the bread absorbs all that lovely custard, setting the stage for a rich and tender pudding.

Step 4: Add Pecans and Transfer

Once the bread has softened, fold in your chopped pecans if you’re using them—they add a wonderful crunch and flavor contrast. Then, transfer your custard-soaked bread to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your Whiskey Caramel Bread Pudding for 45 to 50 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the custard is set but still soft inside. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is absolute delight!

Step 6: Prepare the Whiskey Caramel Sauce

While the pudding bakes, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and whisk until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking continuously to keep it silky.

Step 7: Infuse with Whiskey

Pour in your whiskey, along with the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Continue to stir for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, becoming luxuriously rich and perfectly boozy.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve

When the bread pudding comes out of the oven, let it cool just a bit before generously drizzling your warm whiskey caramel sauce all over. This finishing touch makes every bite an extraordinary experience you won’t forget.

How to Serve Whiskey Caramel Bread Pudding

Garnishes

To elevate your Whiskey Caramel Bread Pudding further, sprinkle some chopped toasted pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar for texture and visual appeal. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream can make the experience even more decadent.

Side Dishes

This dessert stands out on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider pairing it with a fresh fruit salad or a crisp, lightly sweetened apple compote to add brightness and contrast to the rich pudding.

Creative Ways to Present

For a chic presentation, serve the bread pudding in individual ramekins with the caramel sauce elegantly drizzled on top. You can also layer it in clear glass dishes for a “deconstructed” look that showcases the custard-soaked bread and nuts beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Whiskey Caramel Bread Pudding, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping the caramel sauce separate helps maintain its texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the bread pudding before baking by covering it tightly with plastic wrap and foil; it will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. Keep the caramel sauce refrigerated separately.

Reheating

Reheat portions gently in the microwave or oven until warm throughout, then drizzle with fresh caramel sauce for that just-baked feeling. Reheating slowly preserves the custard’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While brioche or French bread offers the best texture, you can use challah, sourdough, or even a sturdy white bread. Make sure it’s slightly stale for optimal absorption of the custard.

Is the whiskey flavor very strong?

The whiskey adds a warm, subtle kick to the caramel sauce rather than overpowering the dish. If you prefer, you can adjust the amount or use a milder bourbon to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, by swapping the whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk alternatives, and using a dairy-free butter substitute, you can create a delicious dairy-free version of this Whiskey Caramel Bread Pudding.

What’s the best way to toast the pecans?

Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and slightly golden. This brings out their nutty flavor and adds a wonderful crunch.

Can I prepare the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! Make your whiskey caramel sauce ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Gently warm before serving to restore its pourable consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a warm, comforting dish like Whiskey Caramel Bread Pudding with the people you love. It’s easy to make, full of cozy flavors, and versatile enough to impress any crowd. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy all the rich, buttery, whiskey-spiked goodness it brings to your table. Happy baking!

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