This Glazed Donut Bread Pudding Bake is a deliciously indulgent dessert that transforms classic glazed donuts into a warm, comforting bread pudding. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat, this dish combines the rich flavor of donuts with a custard-like texture for a mouthwatering result.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 6 glazed donuts, cut into cubes
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Arrange the cubed donuts in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
4. Pour the custard mixture over the donut cubes, pressing the donuts down gently to ensure they soak up the liquid.
5. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top if desired.
6. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the pudding.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and a tablespoon of water until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the baked pudding.
9. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 25g

The Origin of Bread Pudding

Bread pudding has a long and rich history, originating in Europe during the Middle Ages as a way to use up stale bread. It was a frugal dessert, utilizing leftover bread, eggs, milk, and sugar to create a satisfying treat. Over time, bread pudding has evolved, with regional variations adding unique ingredients and flavors. In the United States, it became especially popular in the South, where it is often served with warm sauces or whipped cream. The concept of incorporating donuts into bread pudding is a modern twist, adding sweetness and a delightful texture to the classic dessert.

The Appeal of Donut Bread Pudding

Glazed donut bread pudding offers the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. The combination of soft, doughy donut pieces soaked in a rich custard creates a pudding-like consistency that is both decadent and satisfying. The glazed donuts add an extra layer of sweetness, which perfectly complements the creamy custard base. This dessert appeals to those who love both bread pudding and donuts, offering the best of both worlds in a single dish.

Why Choose Donuts for Bread Pudding?

Using glazed donuts as the base for bread pudding elevates the dish with their light, fluffy texture and sweet flavor. Donuts absorb the custard mixture in a way that regular bread might not, resulting in a dessert that is both moist and flavorful. The glaze on the donuts adds an extra touch of sweetness, reducing the need for additional sugar in the custard. The result is a dish that is rich, sweet, and satisfying without being overwhelmingly sugary.

The Role of Custard in the Recipe

The custard is the backbone of any bread pudding recipe, providing both moisture and structure to the dish. In this glazed donut version, the custard mixture is made with milk, heavy cream, eggs, and sugar, which combine to create a creamy and velvety texture. As the donuts soak up the custard, they become infused with the flavors, creating a pudding that has both a custard-like consistency and the soft, comforting texture of the donuts. The richness of the custard enhances the overall taste, making each bite feel like a luxurious treat.

The Importance of Baking Time

Baking is a crucial step in making bread pudding, as it transforms the mixture of donuts and custard into a cohesive, golden-brown dessert. The baking time for glazed donut bread pudding should be carefully monitored to ensure the custard sets properly without becoming too dry. Typically, it takes about 35-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but the exact time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your baking dish. You can check if the pudding is done by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully cooked.

Why Adding Pecans is a Game-Changer

While the addition of pecans is optional, they add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to the bread pudding. The nutty taste of pecans complements the sweetness of the glazed donuts and custard, providing a contrast in texture that enhances the overall experience. If you prefer other nuts, walnuts or almonds can also be substituted for pecans. For those who enjoy a bit of extra indulgence, toasted pecans bring an added layer of warmth and flavor.

The Appeal of Homemade Donuts for the Pudding

While store-bought donuts work perfectly for this recipe, using homemade donuts can take your bread pudding to the next level. Homemade donuts, whether fried or baked, can be made with more customized flavors, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla, which will infuse the pudding with even more complexity. Fresh, homemade donuts also have a slightly firmer texture, which can hold up better during the soaking process, ensuring a more satisfying end result.

Substituting for Glazed Donuts

While glazed donuts are the traditional choice for this recipe, there are plenty of ways to customize the dish by using different types of donuts. For example, chocolate-covered donuts can add an extra layer of richness, while cinnamon sugar donuts bring an extra touch of spice. If you’re aiming for a lighter dessert, you could also opt for cake donuts, which are slightly denser than yeast-based donuts but still work wonderfully in bread pudding.

Serving Variations

Glazed donut bread pudding is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate the presentation and flavor. For a more indulgent treat, serve the pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can also add an extra layer of sweetness, making it even more decadent. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can provide a bright, fresh contrast to the richness of the pudding.

The Glaze – A Sweet Finish

After baking, the addition of a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and water adds a beautiful, glossy finish to the bread pudding. This glaze not only enhances the appearance but also intensifies the sweetness, creating a perfect contrast with the slight richness of the custard. For a bit of variety, you can experiment with flavored glazes, such as maple, vanilla, or even a spiced glaze, to complement the flavor profile of the bread pudding.

Customizing with Spices

The flavor of glazed donut bread pudding can be customized with various spices. Cinnamon is the most common choice, as it pairs beautifully with the donuts and custard. However, nutmeg, allspice, or even a touch of cardamom can add a unique twist. Spices like these add warmth and complexity to the flavor profile, making each bite more exciting.

Making It Ahead of Time

One of the best features of glazed donut bread pudding is that it can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for holiday meals or brunch gatherings. Prepare the bread pudding the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for a few minutes, and then bake as directed. The flavors will have more time to meld together, resulting in an even richer taste.

Perfect for Brunches and Special Occasions

This dessert is versatile enough to be served at various occasions. It’s an ideal dish for brunches, where its sweet and comforting nature pairs perfectly with coffee or mimosas. It also works well for holiday gatherings, such as Easter or Christmas, offering a delicious and indulgent treat that can be enjoyed by family and friends. The visual appeal of the golden brown pudding, topped with a glistening glaze, makes it a showstopper for any special occasion.

Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

Glazed donut bread pudding is a crowd-pleaser due to its combination of familiar, comforting flavors with a touch of indulgence. Donuts, one of the most universally loved sweet treats, combine effortlessly with the warm, custardy texture of bread pudding. This dessert is perfect for all ages and is sure to be a hit whether you’re serving it at a casual family meal or a festive party.

The Comforting Nature of Bread Pudding

Bread pudding has long been known as a comfort food, evoking feelings of nostalgia and warmth. It’s the type of dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl, and the addition of donuts only intensifies that sense of comfort. The soft, custard-soaked donuts and the golden, caramelized top provide a satisfying texture that can soothe and satisfy after a long day.

Pairing with Beverages

When serving glazed donut bread pudding, consider pairing it with complementary beverages. A hot cup of coffee, whether black or with cream, is an excellent match for this dessert, as the bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the pudding. A glass of cold milk also pairs beautifully, as its creamy texture enhances the richness of the bread pudding. For a more festive occasion, consider serving the pudding with champagne or a sparkling wine to cut through the richness.

Experimenting with Flavors

If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations. For example, adding chocolate chips or chunks of fruit, such as bananas or berries, can provide a fresh burst of flavor within the rich custard. You could also incorporate flavored syrups, such as hazelnut or caramel, to infuse more complexity into the pudding.

The Healthier Alternatives

While this dessert is indulgent, there are ways to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor. For a healthier version, you could substitute some of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or use a sugar substitute to reduce the calorie count. Whole grain donuts can be used for added fiber, and you can skip the glaze or use a lighter version to cut back on the sweetness.

The Texture of Glazed Donut Bread Pudding

The texture of glazed donut bread pudding is one of its most beloved qualities. The donuts absorb the custard mixture, resulting in a soft, melt-in-your-mouth dessert. The top becomes golden and slightly crisp, providing a contrast to the custard-soaked interior. The pecans, if included, add a satisfying crunch, making every bite a well-rounded experience.

Conclusion

Glazed donut bread pudding is an irresistible dessert that combines the best of two beloved treats. With its rich custard base, sweet donuts, and indulgent glaze, it offers a comforting and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by all. Whether you’re looking for a special dessert for a holiday meal or simply want to indulge in something sweet, this recipe will not disappoint. The flexibility of the ingredients allows for creative variations, ensuring that each batch can be tailored to your preferences. Try it at your next gathering and watch it become a new favorite!