Vegan bread pudding might sound like a contradiction to some, but this delightful dessert proves just how versatile and delicious plant-based baking can be. Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to try a healthier take on a classic comfort food, this recipe will satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on flavor or texture.
Using simple, wholesome ingredients, this vegan bread pudding transforms stale bread into a luscious, creamy treat that’s perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a cozy snack. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Let’s dive into the magic of creating a warm, spiced vegan bread pudding that will become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan bread pudding is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses pantry staples and leftover bread, making it an economical and zero-waste dessert.
The rich coconut milk and maple syrup create a naturally sweet and creamy custard base without eggs or dairy. The addition of warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg brings out cozy flavors that remind you of fall and holiday baking.
It’s also incredibly adaptable: add your favorite dried fruits, nuts, or vegan chocolate chips to make it uniquely yours. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so leftovers are never a problem.
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a moist, flavorful bread pudding that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed stale bread (French bread, sourdough, or challah work well; ensure vegan)
- 2 cups full-fat coconut milk (shaken well)
- ¾ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup raisins or chopped dried cranberries (optional)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Vegan butter or coconut oil for greasing the baking dish
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×9-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish
- Rubber spatula
- Oven
- Wire rack for cooling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with vegan butter or coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the bread: Cube your stale bread into roughly 1-inch pieces. Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, maple syrup, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Add optional ingredients: Stir in the raisins (or cranberries) and chopped nuts if using. These add a lovely texture and flavor contrast.
- Combine the bread and custard: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Gently fold with a rubber spatula to ensure all bread pieces are coated. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes so the bread soaks up the custard.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the soaked bread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out for uniform cooking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The pudding should be golden on top and set in the middle but still soft and creamy.
- Cool slightly: Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the pudding firm up a bit.
Tips & Variations
For best results, use stale or day-old bread. Fresh bread can become too mushy.
- Sweeteners: Swap maple syrup for agave nectar or coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Milk alternatives: Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can be used but may yield a less creamy texture than coconut milk.
- Flavor boosters: Add a splash of rum or bourbon for an adult twist.
- Fruit add-ins: Fresh berries or sliced bananas can be folded in right before baking for a fruity surprise.
- Nut-free option: Simply omit nuts and add extra dried fruit or vegan chocolate chips instead.
- Make it savory: For a savory bread pudding, omit the sweeteners and spices, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and vegan cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/8 of recipe) |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Fat | 12 g |
Saturated Fat | 9 g |
Carbohydrates | 38 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugars | 18 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Sodium | 180 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve your vegan bread pudding warm for the best experience. You can top it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce to elevate the sweetness.
Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a spoonful of coconut whipped cream pairs beautifully as well.
This pudding also makes a fantastic brunch item alongside savory dishes—try pairing it with a savory vegan quiche or a fresh salad for balance.
If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out our Bread And Gravy Recipe for another comforting bread-based dish, or warm up with a sweet twist from our Brazil Nut Fruit Cake Recipe. For a hearty vegan main course to accompany your dessert, explore our Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes.
Conclusion
Vegan bread pudding is a wonderful way to turn simple ingredients into a luscious, comforting dessert that everyone can enjoy. This recipe’s balance of creamy coconut milk custard, warming spices, and the satisfying texture of bread makes it a standout dish perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a cozy treat, this recipe is simple yet impressive.
Not only does it reduce food waste by using up stale bread, but it also offers flexibility with ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs. We hope you love making and sharing this vegan bread pudding as much as we do.
Don’t forget to explore the other delicious recipes linked here to keep your kitchen adventures exciting and flavorful!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Bread Pudding
Description: A comforting and delicious vegan bread pudding made with plant-based milk and warm spices. Perfect for a cozy dessert or breakfast treat.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed day-old vegan bread
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk almond milk, brown sugar, maple syrup, coconut oil, flour, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Add bread cubes and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Let the mixture soak for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Fold in raisins or nuts if using.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden and set.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 42 g
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