King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe is a festive dessert combining rich custard, day old bread, and traditional King Cake flavours, topped with colourful Mardi Gras glaze.
I made this King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe after seeing it featured in a New Orleans dessert showcase and feeling inspired by its colourful, celebratory presentation.
I will now demonstrate step by step how to prepare and bake this delightful King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe.
King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe
The King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe is a festive twist on the traditional New Orleans King Cake, blending rich, custardy bread pudding with the iconic Mardi Gras flavours and colors.
Its main speciality lies in transforming day old bread into a soft, creamy dessert infused with warm spices, vanilla, and optional raisins or pecans, then topped with a vibrant glaze and purple, green, and gold sanding sugar.
This combination creates a visually striking, celebratory dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent, perfect for holidays or special occasions. Its balance of sweetness, spice, and texture makes it truly unique.
How To Prepare King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: New Orleans
Yield: 8 servings
Equipment Needed
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Spatula
- Small bowl for glaze
- Spoon for sprinkling sanding sugar
Ingredients
For The Bread Pudding:
- 6 slices day old bread, torn into small pieces
- 6 cups cubed leftover king cake
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
For The Glaze And Decoration:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or milk, as needed)
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugar
Instructions
1. Oven & Dish Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or a bit of nonstick spray so nothing sticks.
2. Make The Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a little lemon zest until everything is smooth and well blended.
3. Assemble The Bread Pudding
Tear your bread into pieces and place them in the prepared dish. If you like, sprinkle in raisins or chopped pecans for extra texture. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing gently so it soaks up the liquid. Drizzle a little melted butter on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to really absorb the custard.
4. Bake
Pop it in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown top and custard that’s set check by inserting a knife into the center, it should come out clean.
5. Make The Glaze
While the pudding bakes, mix together powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla, and some lemon juice (or milk) in a small bowl until smooth and pour able. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more liquid until it reaches the right consistency.
6. Finish & Serve
Once the bread pudding has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. For a festive touch, sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sanding sugar, like a traditional King Cake. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Sugar | 30 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Amazing Serving Ideas
1. Serve warm in individual ramekins for a charming, single serving presentation.
2. Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of coloured sanding sugar for a festive look.
3. Add a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream to contrast the warm, spiced custard.
4. Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the pudding for an extra layer of indulgence.
5. Pair slices with fresh berries or a citrus compote to balance the richness and add brightness.
Hot Tips
➣ Use day old bread for the best texture, allowing the custard to soak evenly and create a creamy interior.
➣ Gently whisk the eggs and liquids to avoid overbearing, which keeps the custard smooth and tender.
➣ Toast nuts or raisins lightly before adding to enhance their flavor and prevent sogginess.
➣ Let the bread pudding rest for a few minutes after baking to set, making it easier to slice.
➣ Drizzle the glaze while the pudding is still warm to ensure it sticks and creates a glossy finish.
Healthy Nutrition Benefits
King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe contains protein from eggs and milk, supporting muscle health and energy.
Whole milk and cream provide essential calcium and vitamin D for strong bones. Cinnamon and nutmeg add antioxidants that support overall wellness.
Raisins and pecans contribute fiber, healthy fats, and minerals like potassium and magnesium. Lemon zest offers vitamin C, promoting immune health.
Balanced portions of carbohydrates and protein help maintain steady energy levels, while moderate sugar content satisfies sweet cravings responsibly.
Why We Love This King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe?
We love this King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe because it combines the festive flavours of a traditional King Cake with a rich, creamy bread pudding.
Sweet spices like cinnamon and nutmeg mingle with lemon zest, creating a bright, comforting taste. Raisins or pecans add texture, while the colourful glaze of purple, green, and gold sanding sugar makes it visually striking.
Every bite delivers warmth, indulgence, and celebration, making it a truly irresistible dessert.
Storage And Shelf Life
King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe should be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Reheating portions gently in the oven or microwave restores warmth and texture. The glaze can be added just before serving to preserve its colour and crunch.
Freezing the bread pudding for up to one month extends shelf life while retaining flavor and moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Any Type Of Bread For This Recipe?
Day old white or brioche bread works best because it absorbs the custard well without becoming too mushy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding the night before and refrigerate it. Bake it the next day for fresh results.
Can I Skip The Raisins Or Pecans?
Absolutely. They are optional and can be omitted or replaced with chocolate chips or dried cranberries.
Can I Make A Dairy Free Version?
Use plant based milk and cream alternatives, and replace butter with dairy free margarine or coconut oil to make it dairy free.
Conclusion
This King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe is easy, enjoyable, and absolutely delicious! Its sweet, festive flavours bring a sense of celebration to any table.
I hope this King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe inspires you to try it soon, as it’s simple to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
I’m excited for you to taste it and see how wonderfully flavourful and satisfying this festive dessert can be. It’s truly a treat!
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King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Spatula
- Small bowl (for glaze)
- Spoon for sprinkling sanding sugar
Ingredients
For The Bread Pudding:
- 6 slices day old bread torn into small pieces
- 6 cups cubed leftover king cake
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup raisins or chopped pecans optional
For The Glaze And Decoration:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or milk, as needed
- Purple green, and gold sanding sugar
Instructions
Oven & Dish Prep
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or a bit of nonstick spray so nothing sticks.
Make The Custard
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a little lemon zest until everything is smooth and well blended.
Assemble The Bread Pudding
- Tear your bread into pieces and place them in the prepared dish. If you like, sprinkle in raisins or chopped pecans for extra texture. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing gently so it soaks up the liquid. Drizzle a little melted butter on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to really absorb the custard.
Bake
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown top and custard that’s set check by inserting a knife into the center, it should come out clean.
Make The Glaze
- While the pudding bakes, mix together powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla, and some lemon juice (or milk) in a small bowl until smooth and pour able. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more liquid until it reaches the right consistency.
Finish & Serve
- Once the bread pudding has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. For a festive touch, sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sanding sugar, like a traditional King Cake. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
Calories: 360 kcal | Carbohydrates: 50 g | Protein: 7 g | Fat: 15 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Sugar: 30 g | Fiber: 1 gHi, I’m Samia! I’ve spent the past five years creating recipes that are both delicious and unique. Cooking is my passion, and I love exploring different cuisines, blending flavors, and turning everyday meals into something memorable. From quick weeknight dinners to festive feasts, I aim to make every dish special. I’d love for you to join me on this culinary journey together we’ll explore simple, easy-to-follow recipes and tips that make cooking fun, inspiring, and full of joy!