Amaretto Bread Pudding
A rich, custardy dessert with a boozy twist! This Amaretto Bread Pudding is decadent, easy to make, and perfect for using up stale bread. The almond-flavored liqueur adds warmth and depth, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
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6 cups stale bread (French, brioche, or challah), cubed
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2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
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1 cup heavy cream
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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4 large eggs
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¼ cup Amaretto liqueur (or 1 tsp almond extract + 1 tbsp bourbon if needed)
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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½ tsp cinnamon
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¼ tsp nutmeg
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¼ tsp salt
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½ cup sliced almonds (optional, for crunch)
For the Amaretto Sauce (Optional but Recommended!):
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½ cup heavy cream
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¼ cup Amaretto
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prep the Bread
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Cut stale bread into 1-inch cubes (if using fresh bread, toast lightly first).
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Place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or deep casserole dish.
2. Make the Custard
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In a saucepan, warm milk & cream over medium heat (do not boil).
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In a bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, Amaretto, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the eggs while whisking.
3. Assemble & Soak
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Pour custard over the bread, pressing down to soak all pieces.
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Sprinkle sliced almonds on top (if using).
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Let sit 15–30 mins (or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor).
4. Bake
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Bake 40–50 mins, until golden and set (center should slightly jiggle).
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Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.
5. Make the Amaretto Sauce (Optional)
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In a small saucepan, combine cream, Amaretto, brown sugar, and butter.
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Simmer 5 mins, stirring until thickened.
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Stir in vanilla and drizzle over warm bread pudding.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
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Garnish with toasted almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips & Variations
🔸 Non-Alcoholic Version: Use 2 tsp almond extract instead of Amaretto.
🔸 Extra Decadent: Add ½ cup white chocolate chips to the custard.
🔸 Make-Ahead: Refrigerate unbaked overnight for an easy dessert the next day.
This Amaretto Bread Pudding is a cozy, comforting dessert with a sophisticated kick—ideal for holidays or a special treat! Let me know if you’d like adjustments for dietary preferences (e.g., gluten-free, dairy-free). Enjoy! 🍮✨
