To make Famous Dave’s bread pudding, start by cubing 6 cups of day-old bread and whisking 4 eggs with 2 cups of milk, sugar, and vanilla. Pour the custard over the bread, soaking it for at least 30 minutes. Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until golden and set. Serve with warm sauce or ice cream for a cozy treat. Keep going and you’ll uncover handy tips and serving ideas to perfect this classic dessert.
Ingredients and Quantity

Before you immerse yourself in making Famous Dave’s Bread Pudding, you’ll want to gather the right ingredients in the correct amounts to guarantee every bite is rich and flavorful. This famous recipe balances simple pantry staples with touches of sweetness and spice, giving you a comforting dessert that feels like freedom on a plate. Here’s a clear guide to the essentials you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bread (day-old) | 6 cups (cubed) | Sturdy bread works best |
| Eggs | 4 large | Provides structure |
| Milk | 2 cups | Whole milk preferred |
| Sugar | 1 cup | Sweetens perfectly |
With these precise amounts, you’re set to create a bread pudding that’s irresistibly rich and true to the famous recipe.
Preparations

Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, take a moment to prepare your workspace and equipment to guarantee the process goes smoothly. Start by clearing your countertop and setting out a mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups, and a baking dish. When it comes to bread selection, choose something sturdy like brioche or challah—they soak up the custard beautifully without turning mushy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with pudding variations by adding nuts, dried fruits, or a splash of bourbon to make this recipe your own. Cut your bread into uniform cubes to assure even soaking and cooking. Having everything prepped and organized not only speeds up the process but also lets your creativity flow freely without interruptions, making your Famous Dave bread pudding experience both effortless and enjoyable.
How to Cook

- Whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the custard over your prepared bread cubes, ensuring every piece soaks up the rich flavors.
- Use a sturdy baking dish and reliable kitchen tools like a silicone spatula to make the process effortless.
- Let the bread absorb the custard for at least 30 minutes to enhance texture.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the dish on the center rack of the oven.
- Bake using the baking technique, allowing steady heat to evenly cook the bread pudding for about 45-50 minutes.
- Check for doneness when the top is golden and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Follow these precise steps to confidently master this classic dessert.
How to Serve

After your bread pudding has baked to a golden perfection and cooled just enough to handle, you’re ready to bring it to the table in a way that highlights its rich, comforting flavors. For serving suggestions, try slicing it into generous squares and drizzling warm vanilla or caramel sauce over the top. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm pudding. Presentation ideas include serving it on rustic wooden boards or elegant dessert plates, garnished with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, these simple touches elevate the experience, making every bite feel indulgent and freeing.
Tips

A few key tips can transform your Famous Dave Bread Pudding from good to unforgettable. Mastering simple baking techniques will elevate your dessert’s texture and flavor, while smart ingredient substitutions offer flexibility without compromising taste.
- Use day-old bread for better absorption and structure.
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Bake in a water bath to guarantee even cooking and prevent drying.
- Let the pudding rest after baking; it allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Food Value and Benefit
Mastering the tips for making Famous Dave’s Bread Pudding not only enhances its taste but also allows you to enjoy its nutritional value. This delightful dessert offers a combination of essential nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet.
Mastering Famous Dave’s Bread Pudding elevates flavor while delivering essential nutrients for a balanced diet.
Food Value of Famous Dave’s Bread Pudding:
- Rich in protein and calcium from eggs and milk
- Provides energy-boosting carbohydrates from bread
- Contains antioxidants from cinnamon
- Can be enriched with fruits and nuts for added fiber and nutrients
Benefits of Eating This Recipe:
- Supports bone health and muscle maintenance due to calcium and protein content
- Boosts energy levels through complex carbohydrates
- Enhances antioxidant intake, which helps combat oxidative stress
- Increases dietary fiber when fruits or nuts are added, promoting digestive health
- Supplies essential vitamins such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D
- Provides important minerals including calcium, iron, and potassium
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need for the Famous Dave Bread Pudding?
To make Famous Dave Bread Pudding, you will need the following ingredients: stale bread (preferably French or brioche), eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and raisins (optional). For the sauce, you’ll need butter, brown sugar, and bourbon or vanilla extract for flavoring.
How long does it take to prepare and cook the bread pudding?
The preparation time for Famous Dave Bread Pudding is approximately 20-30 minutes, including cutting the bread and mixing the ingredients. After preparation, the baking time is around 45-55 minutes, depending on your oven. So, the total time from start to finish is about 1.5 hours.
Can I make bread pudding in advance and reheat it later?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
What can I serve with Famous Dave Bread Pudding?
Famous Dave Bread Pudding pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it warm with a drizzle of bourbon sauce or caramel sauce. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side also enhances the dessert. Fresh berries can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pudding.
Can I modify the recipe to make it gluten-free or dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free bread pudding, simply substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread. For a dairy-free version, you can use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk and heavy cream. Additionally, use a dairy-free butter substitute in the sauce. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free or dairy-free as needed.
