When it comes to indulgent desserts that bring warmth and comfort, Rum Bread Pudding is a timeless favorite. This decadent dish combines rich, creamy custard with tender, caramelized bread, all infused with the bold, aromatic flavor of rum. Perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, Rum Bread Pudding is as versatile as it is delicious.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences—choose your favourite bread, adjust the rum intensity, or add extras like raisins or chocolate chips. No matter the variation, this dessert guarantees a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will help you create a show-stopping Rum Bread Pudding that will impress family and friends alike. With a rich custard base, golden baked texture, and the perfect balance of sweetness and rum, this dessert promises to be the highlight of any meal.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- Day-Old Bread (8 cups, cubed)
- Calories: ~880 calories
- Milk (3 cups, whole or your choice)
- Calories: ~450 calories
- Heavy Cream (1 cup)
- Calories: ~820 calories
- Eggs (4 large)
- Calories: ~280 calories
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup)
- Calories: ~770 calories
- Brown Sugar (1/4 cup, packed)
- Calories: ~210 calories
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons)
- Calories: ~24 calories
- Dark Rum (1/4 cup, adjust to taste)
- Calories: ~128 calories
- Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
- Calories: ~6 calories
- Nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon, freshly grated)
- Calories: ~3 calories
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, melted)
- Calories: ~200 calories
- Optional Add-ins:
- Raisins (1/2 cup): ~240 calories
- Chocolate Chips (1/2 cup): ~400 calories
For the Rum Sauce:
- Unsalted Butter (1/4 cup, melted)
- Calories: ~400 calories
- Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed)
- Calories: ~420 calories
- Heavy Cream (1/4 cup)
- Calories: ~205 calories
- Dark Rum (2 tablespoons, adjust to taste)
- Calories: ~64 calories
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
- Cube the Bread: Slice the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. Arrange the cubes in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Optional Add-ins: Sprinkle raisins or chocolate chips evenly over the bread for added texture and flavor.
2. Make the Custard
- Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, warm 3 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Whisk the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Combine Custard Base: Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Stir in 1/4 cup of dark rum.
3. Assemble the Pudding
- Pour Custard Over Bread: Evenly pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Let sit for 10 minutes to absorb.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drizzle Butter: Pour melted butter over the top for a rich, golden finish.
4. Bake the Pudding
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool: Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving.
5. Prepare the Rum Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat.
- Add Sugar and Cream: Stir in 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Cook until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens (~3-5 minutes).
- Add Rum: Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of dark rum. Let cool slightly before serving.
6. Serve
- Plate the Pudding: Scoop the warm bread pudding onto dessert plates or bowls.
- Drizzle Sauce: Generously drizzle the rum sauce over each portion. Serve warm and enjoy!
Calorie Breakdown
For the Pudding:
- Bread: ~880 calories
- Milk: ~450 calories
- Heavy Cream: ~820 calories
- Eggs: ~280 calories
- Granulated Sugar: ~770 calories
- Brown Sugar: ~210 calories
- Vanilla Extract: ~24 calories
- Dark Rum: ~128 calories
- Spices and Butter: ~209 calories
- Optional Add-ins:
- Raisins: ~240 calories
- Chocolate Chips: ~400 calories
For the Rum Sauce:
- Butter: ~400 calories
- Brown Sugar: ~420 calories
- Heavy Cream: ~205 calories
- Dark Rum: ~64 calories
Total Calories: ~5,500 calories (serves 8, ~688 calories per serving with sauce).
Why This Recipe Works
- Rich Flavor Profile: The dark rum adds depth and warmth, perfectly complementing the sweet custard and caramelized bread.
- Texture Perfection: A combination of tender, creamy custard and golden, slightly crispy bread ensures every bite is delightful.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite add-ins, like nuts, dried fruits, or spices.
- Versatile Dessert: Suitable for casual dinners or festive gatherings, Rum Bread Pudding shines on any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe without alcohol?
Yes! Substitute the rum with rum extract or vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version that still delivers a delightful flavor.
2. What type of bread is best for bread pudding?
Day-old brioche, challah, or French bread work best due to their ability to absorb custard without falling apart.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
4. Can I prepare the pudding ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the pudding up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh before serving.
5. Can I freeze bread pudding?
Yes, freeze the baked pudding (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving with fresh sauce.
6. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Substitute with full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half for a lighter alternative without compromising richness.