23 Cozy Holiday Bread Pudding Recipes That Warm Hearts & Bellies

The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in comforting, nostalgic desserts that bring warmth and joy to any gathering. Bread pudding is one such dessert that effortlessly combines the simple goodness of bread with the rich, indulgent flavors of the season. These 23 cozy holiday bread pudding recipes will not only fill your home with delightful aromas but also warm your hearts and bellies. Whether you prefer classic flavors or more creative twists, these bread puddings are easy to make, share, and enjoy. Let’s explore these delicious recipes that are perfect for any holiday occasion!

1. Classic Vanilla Bread Pudding

Classic vanilla bread pudding is a timeless holiday treat. Made with simple ingredients like stale bread, milk, eggs, and vanilla, it’s easy to prepare and always delicious. The rich, custardy texture pairs perfectly with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This comforting dessert is sure to be a crowd favorite at your next holiday gathering.

2. Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding

This cinnamon apple bread pudding is perfect for fall and winter holidays. The sweet, tender apples add a fruity contrast to the rich custard, while the cinnamon adds a warming spice. Serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to create a cozy, flavorful dessert that will have your guests coming back for more.

3. Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding

Pumpkin spice bread pudding is the ultimate fall and holiday treat. The spiced pumpkin filling adds a rich, creamy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bread’s soft texture. This dessert is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas and can be served warm with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

4. Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding

Chocolate chip bread pudding combines the classic comfort of bread pudding with the sweet, melty goodness of chocolate. The chocolate chips melt into the custard, creating a decadent dessert that everyone will love. Serve with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

5. Bourbon Bread Pudding

Bourbon bread pudding is a sophisticated twist on the classic. The bourbon adds a deep, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the custard base. Top with a rich caramel sauce made with bourbon for an extra kick. This grown-up dessert is perfect for holiday parties or an after-dinner treat.

6. Banana Foster Bread Pudding

Inspired by the famous dessert, banana foster bread pudding features caramelized bananas, brown sugar, and a rich rum sauce. The combination of sweet bananas and the rum-infused sauce makes this dessert indulgent and unforgettable. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a true holiday treat.

7. Pear and Almond Bread Pudding

This pear and almond bread pudding is a light yet indulgent holiday dessert. The fresh pears add a juicy, sweet contrast to the rich custard, while the almond slices provide a delightful crunch. A touch of almond extract and syrup completes this elegant and flavorful pudding.

8. Gingerbread Bread Pudding

Gingerbread bread pudding is a perfect holiday dessert with a festive twist. The warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg blend beautifully with the rich custard, creating a comforting and fragrant dish. Top with whipped cream or a dollop of spiced butter for an extra treat.

9. Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

This cherry almond bread pudding combines the tartness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds. The contrast of sweet and savory flavors makes this bread pudding a delightful holiday dessert. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of almond syrup for extra flavor.

10. Coconut Bread Pudding

Coconut bread pudding brings a tropical twist to the classic dessert. The shredded coconut adds a chewy texture, and the coconut milk in the custard makes it creamy and rich. Top with a coconut glaze for a sweet, indulgent finish. This dessert is perfect for a holiday getaway or tropical-themed holiday dinner.

11. Blueberry Lemon Bread Pudding

Blueberry lemon bread pudding is a refreshing and light dessert with the perfect balance of sweet and tart. The juicy blueberries burst in every bite, while the lemon glaze adds a citrusy kick. This is a great option for a holiday breakfast or a light dessert after a heavy meal.

12. Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

Apple cinnamon bread pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that combines the flavors of cinnamon, apples, and soft bread. The apples become tender and sweet as they bake, and the cinnamon adds a cozy, holiday spice. Top with caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness.

13. Raspberry White Chocolate Bread Pudding

Raspberry and white chocolate are a decadent combination, and this bread pudding brings them together perfectly. The tart raspberries balance out the sweetness of the white chocolate, making this dessert indulgent but not too heavy. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

14. Pecan Praline Bread Pudding

Pecan praline bread pudding is a sweet, nutty dessert that’s perfect for the holidays. The rich custard pairs beautifully with the toasted pecans and caramelized praline sauce. This indulgent treat is great for a holiday brunch or dessert, especially for pecan lovers.

15. Chocolate Hazelnut Bread Pudding

Chocolate hazelnut bread pudding is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers. The combination of chocolate chips and hazelnuts creates a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the custard base. A drizzle of chocolate syrup completes this indulgent dessert.

16. Bourbon Pecan Bread Pudding

Bourbon pecan bread pudding is a decadent, grown-up dessert that brings the warmth of bourbon and the sweetness of pecans together. The rich caramel sauce made with bourbon adds a boozy kick that’s perfect for the holidays. Serve this dessert after a festive meal for a real treat.

17. Maple Bacon Bread Pudding

Maple bacon bread pudding is a savory and sweet option that combines the richness of bread pudding with the smoky flavor of bacon and the sweetness of maple syrup. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a holiday breakfast or brunch.

18. Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding

Cinnamon roll bread pudding combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the richness of bread pudding. The cinnamon sugar adds sweetness, and the soft, gooey texture makes this a decadent treat. It’s perfect for holiday brunches or as a dessert after a hearty meal.

19. Pear and Gingerbread Bread Pudding

Pear and gingerbread bread pudding is a cozy, spiced dessert that’s perfect for the holidays. The pears add a juicy sweetness, while the gingerbread spices give the pudding a festive kick. Top with whipped cream for a rich and indulgent finish.

20. Vegan Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding

This vegan chocolate banana bread pudding is indulgent and satisfying. The chocolate and bananas blend together in a rich custard base, creating a dessert that’s both creamy and decadent. Topped with coconut whipped cream, this vegan-friendly treat is perfect for the holidays.

21. Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Cranberry orange bread pudding is a bright, festive dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zest of orange. The combination of flavors is perfect for the holiday season, and the citrus glaze adds a refreshing finish. This dessert is sure to impress at any holiday gathering.

22. Banana Foster Bread Pudding

Banana foster bread pudding is a rich, indulgent dessert that features caramelized bananas and a rum sauce. The bananas are cooked in brown sugar and rum, creating a rich sauce that soaks into the bread pudding. It’s a luxurious treat that’s perfect for a special holiday meal.

23. Spiced Chai Bread Pudding

This spiced chai bread pudding brings the comforting flavors of chai tea into a rich, custardy dessert. Infused with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, it’s a perfect winter treat. The soft, warm bread soaks up the chai-infused custard, making every bite aromatic and soothing. Top with whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon for the ultimate holiday dessert.

Conclusion

These 23 cozy holiday bread pudding recipes are the perfect way to warm hearts and bellies during the holiday season. Whether you prefer traditional flavors like vanilla and cinnamon or more creative twists like bourbon pecan or banana foster, there’s a bread pudding recipe here for everyone. Whip up one or more of these indulgent desserts for your holiday gatherings and create sweet, memorable moments with your loved ones. Happy baking!