Bread Pudding Recipe Using Bagels for a Delicious Twist

Have you ever found yourself with leftover bagels and wondered what creative dish you could turn them into? Instead of letting them go stale or tossing them out, why not transform those bagels into a warm, comforting dessert?

Bread pudding is a classic treat that traditionally uses bread, but using bagels adds a unique twist with their dense, chewy texture and slight sweetness. This recipe breathes new life into your bagels, combining them with a rich custard and a hint of cinnamon and vanilla for a cozy treat that’s perfect for any time of day.

Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this bagel bread pudding is sure to impress your family and friends. So grab those bagels and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bread pudding recipe using bagels is a wonderful way to reduce food waste while indulging in a delicious, comforting dessert. The bagels’ dense texture absorbs the custard beautifully, resulting in a pudding that is creamy on the inside with a slightly crispy top.

It’s incredibly easy to make and versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices, fruits, or nuts. Plus, it’s a one-bowl recipe that doesn’t require fancy ingredients, making it perfect for beginner bakers or anyone short on time.

The nostalgic flavors of warm cinnamon, vanilla, and a hint of nutmeg will make this a go-to recipe for cozy evenings or brunch gatherings.

Ingredients

• 4 plain bagels (day-old or slightly stale works best)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (one large for custard mix and one for bagels)
• Whisk or electric mixer
• 9×9 inch baking dish or similar
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during baking)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter your baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the bagels into roughly 1-inch pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Prepare the custard mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the custard over the bagels, ensuring all pieces are submerged. Gently press the bagels down so they soak up the custard. Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes for optimal absorption.
5. If using raisins or dried cranberries, stir them into the mixture now for a burst of sweetness.
6. Transfer the soaked bagels and custard into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
7. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
9. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup if desired, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mix.”

• Bagel flavors: Plain bagels work best, but you can experiment with cinnamon raisin or everything bagels for unique flavor profiles.
• Sweeten it up: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries before baking.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a vegan-friendly version.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a warm, autumnal twist.
• Make it savory: Skip the sugar and cinnamon, add cheese, herbs, and sautéed vegetables to turn this into a savory bread pudding.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This bagel bread pudding shines when served warm, straight out of the oven. For an indulgent touch, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

A drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce adds extra sweetness and moisture.

For a more balanced meal, serve with fresh fruit on the side such as sliced oranges, strawberries, or a mixed berry compote. Coffee, chai tea, or hot chocolate are excellent beverage companions that enhance the cozy vibe of this dessert.

Conclusion

Transforming leftover bagels into a delicious bread pudding is a smart, tasty way to reduce food waste and delight your taste buds. This recipe is simple, flexible, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Whether you bake it for a comforting breakfast, a sweet snack, or a satisfying dessert, it offers a unique twist on the traditional bread pudding that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with add-ins and spices to make it your own!

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore more creative dishes such as Bread Snacks Veg Recipes Of India To Try Today, or try comforting soups like the Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.

For quick and delicious meal ideas, check out Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious. Happy cooking!

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