Paula Deen White Chocolate Bread Pudding
Paula Deen White Chocolate Bread Pudding is a rich, Southern-style dessert that turns simple ingredients into pure comfort. Soft cubes of bread soak in a creamy custard, studded with sweet white chocolate, then baked until golden and served with a luscious sauce.
This dessert is warm, indulgent, and perfect for holidays, gatherings, or anytime you want a classic, cozy treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bread pudding stands out because:
• Ultra creamy, custard-like texture
• Sweet white chocolate flavor throughout
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Perfect for feeding a crowd
• Tastes even better warm with sauce
It’s the ultimate comfort dessert with a Southern twist.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8–10
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding
1 loaf French bread (day-old, cubed)
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 large eggs
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup white chocolate chips (or chopped white chocolate)
½ cup raisins (optional)
For the White Chocolate Sauce
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup white chocolate chips
2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Kitchen Tools Needed
Large mixing bowl
Whisk
9×13 baking dish
Saucepan
Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Cut the French bread into cubes and place them in the baking dish.
Sprinkle white chocolate chips and raisins evenly over the bread.
Step 3: Make the Custard
In a bowl, whisk together:
• milk
• heavy cream
• eggs
• sugar
• vanilla extract
• cinnamon
• salt
Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Combine
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes.
Gently press the bread down so it absorbs the liquid.
Let sit for 10–15 minutes for best texture.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 45–50 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set but still soft.
Step 6: Make the White Chocolate Sauce
In a saucepan over low heat:
• heat heavy cream
• add white chocolate chips
• stir until melted and smooth
• add butter and vanilla
Mix until silky.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled generously with the white chocolate sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert pairs perfectly with:
• vanilla ice cream
• whipped cream
• fresh berries
Best served warm for maximum comfort and flavor.
Estimated Calories
Per serving (approximate):
Calories: 450–550
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Sugar: 35g
Protein: 8g
Expert Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding
Use Day-Old Bread
Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.
Don’t Skip the Soaking Time
Letting the bread soak ensures a rich, custard-like interior.
Bake Until Just Set
The center should be soft but not liquid.
Serve Warm
Bread pudding is best enjoyed warm with sauce poured on top.
Delicious Variations
Bourbon Sauce Version
Add a splash of bourbon to the sauce for a deeper flavor.
Chocolate Lovers Version
Mix in dark chocolate chips along with the white chocolate.
Nutty Version
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Fruit Twist
Include dried cranberries or fresh berries for added brightness.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers covered for 3–4 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Add extra sauce to keep it moist.
Freezing
Freeze for up to 1 month.
Thaw overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Paula Deen White Chocolate Bread Pudding is a decadent dessert that combines creamy custard, soft bread, and sweet white chocolate into a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply craving a warm homemade dessert, this recipe delivers rich flavor and classic Southern charm in every bite.