King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe
King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe blends the festive flavors of a traditional King Cake with rich, custardy bread pudding. Day old bread soaks in a mixture of eggs, milk, cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, while optional raisins or pecans add texture. Topped with a sweet glaze and colourful purple, green, and gold sanding sugar, this dessert is indulgent, vibrant, and celebratory.
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!