Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding Recipe (6 Simple Steps!)

There’s something truly magical about Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding—a dessert that turns simple pantry staples into a warm, rich, and comforting delight. This dish is a beloved Southern classic, and if you’ve ever had the pleasure of strolling through the French Quarter, you know the irresistible aroma of cinnamon, vanilla, and butter wafting through the air.

This bread pudding is a perfect balance of custardy goodness, warm spices, and plump raisins, all topped with a silky bourbon sauce that takes it over the top! Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, Sunday brunch, or just because—this is the ultimate soul-satisfying dessert.

So, let’s dive in and make this New Orleans classic right at home!

Why You’ll Love This Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce Recipe

• Easy to make! No fancy ingredients—just basic pantry staples
• Perfectly spiced & flavorful with cinnamon, allspice, vanilla, and bourbon
• Crowd-pleaser! A warm, comforting dessert that brings everyone together
• Great way to use leftover bread—because nothing should go to waste
• That bourbon sauce! Sweet, buttery, and just the right kick of whiskey

What Does New Orleans Bread Pudding Taste Like?

Imagine a soft, custardy bread pudding infused with warm spices and sweet raisins, all baked to golden perfection. Each bite is rich, buttery, and slightly crispy around the edges, while the inside remains moist and creamy. And that bourbon sauce? It’s smooth, velvety, and full of sweet caramel-like depth with just a hint of whiskey warmth. Heavenly!

Ingredients Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce

For the Bread Pudding

• 1 large loaf French Bread (14-16 oz)
• 4 cups milk
• 3 eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup raisins
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted

For the Bourbon Sauce

• ½ cup butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons bourbon (or to taste)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredient Substitutions & Additions

Want to put your own spin on this classic dessert? Try these variations:

No Bourbon? Swap it for vanilla extract or rum for a different twist
No Raisins? Use chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries instead
Extra Decadent? Stir in chocolate chips or drizzle with caramel sauce
Dairy-Free? Substitute with almond or coconut milk and plant-based butter

How to Make Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Tear the French bread into small chunks and place them in a large mixing bowl. Pour the milk over the bread and let it soak for about 15-20 minutes until the bread is fully absorbed and softened

Step 2: Make the Custard

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla, allspice, and cinnamon until well combined. Pour this mixture over the soaked bread and gently fold everything together

Step 3: Add Mix-Ins & Butter

Stir in the raisins and drizzle in the melted butter. Mix well so that everything is evenly distributed

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour in the bread pudding mixture. Spread it evenly and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center

Step 5: Make the Bourbon Sauce

While the bread pudding is baking, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in the sugar and cook until it dissolves. Slowly whisk in the beaten egg, stirring constantly so it doesn’t scramble. Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon. The sauce should be smooth and velvety

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once the bread pudding is done, let it cool slightly before serving. Drizzle warm bourbon sauce over the top and enjoy!

What to Serve with New Orleans Bread Pudding

This dessert is amazing on its own, but if you want to take it up a notch, try these pairings:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream—melty and dreamy
Fresh whipped cream—light, fluffy, and just right
A dusting of powdered sugar—for a little extra sweetness
Toasted pecans—for a crunchy contrast

Pro Tips for the Best Bread Pudding

Use day-old bread! Slightly stale bread soaks up the custard better, giving you the perfect texture
Don’t overbake! The pudding should be set but still soft and custardy inside
Adjust the bourbon to taste! If you love a stronger bourbon flavor, add a little more to the sauce

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days

Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes

Freeze: You can freeze bread pudding for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving

Frequently Asked Questions Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce

Can I Make This Bread Pudding Without Alcohol?

Absolutely! Just leave out the bourbon or replace it with vanilla extract

What’s the Best Bread to Use?

French bread is traditional, but you can also use brioche, challah, or even croissants for a richer flavor

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the bread pudding the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready. The bourbon sauce can also be made ahead and reheated

Is This Dessert Super Boozy?

Not at all! The bourbon flavor is subtle and enhances the caramel-like richness of the sauce. But if you want a stronger kick, add a little more bourbon

Final Thoughts Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce

This Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is warm, rich, and full of comforting flavors—just like a hug in dessert form. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, a cozy weekend treat, or a nostalgic trip to the South, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. And that buttery bourbon sauce? Absolutely irresistible!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, or share your delicious creation on Pinterest

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No-Oven Stovetop Bread – Fresh homemade bread without an oven
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken – A rich, flavorful dinner option

Happy baking, y’all!

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