Irresistible Donut Bread Pudding Recipe – Perfect Sweet Comfort

The smell of cinnamon-glazed donuts soaking into rich, creamy custard—it’s a sensory hug you didn’t know you needed. This irresistible donut bread pudding stuffing is the perfect sweet comfort food that combines the nostalgia of donuts with the cozy indulgence of bread pudding. I discovered this recipe on a whim when leftover donuts were begging for a second life, and, honestly, it was love at first bite. You’re going to want to bookmark this one, trust me.

If you’re a fan of turning humble ingredients into magic or simply love a dessert that doubles as comfort food, this recipe is for you. It’s an unexpected yet delightful twist that’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any time you want to treat yourself. Bonus? It’s shockingly easy to make, and you probably already have most of the ingredients on hand. Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This donut bread pudding stuffing comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for last-minute dessert cravings or stress-free entertaining.
• Unique & Creative: Unlike traditional bread puddings, this recipe uses donuts as the base, adding a fun twist to a classic dessert.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, Sunday brunch, or a casual weekday treat, this dish is sure to impress.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of sweet donuts, creamy custard, and warm spices creates a dessert so good you’ll want seconds (and thirds!).
• Kid and Adult Approved: It’s a crowd-pleaser that gets rave reviews from even the pickiest eaters.

This recipe stands out because it transforms something as simple as leftover donuts into a decadent dessert that feels gourmet. The custard is perfectly creamy, the donuts soak up the flavors beautifully, and the texture is divine. Plus, if you’re a cinnamon lover, the warm spices will feel like a cozy hug in every bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. You might even have everything you need already in your kitchen!

• Leftover donuts: Any kind will work, but glazed or cinnamon donuts are ideal for flavor and texture.
• Whole milk: Adds richness and creaminess to the custard.
• Heavy cream: For an extra indulgent custard texture.
• Large eggs: The binding agent that creates the luscious pudding consistency.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dish without overpowering the flavors of the donuts.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a hint of warmth to the custard.
• Cinnamon: The star spice that complements the donuts perfectly.
• Nutmeg: Optional, but adds a subtle earthy warmth.
• Butter: For greasing the baking dish to ensure the pudding doesn’t stick.
• Optional toppings: Whipped cream, caramel sauce, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.

Feel free to experiment with different types of donuts—chocolate, maple, or even jelly-filled donuts can add fun variations to this recipe!

Equipment Needed

Here’s a quick list of tools you’ll need to whip up this irresistible dessert:

• Medium mixing bowl: For whisking the custard.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth and well-combined custard mixture.
• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for even baking.
• Knife: For cutting the donuts into smaller pieces.
• Spatula: For spreading the donut pieces evenly in the dish.

If you don’t have a whisk, a fork works in a pinch. As for the baking dish, any oven-safe dish of similar size will do!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the donuts: Cut the donuts into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them evenly in the greased baking dish.
3. Make the custard: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
4. Combine the custard and donuts: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the donuts, pressing down gently so they soak up the liquid. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard has set.
6. Cool and serve: Let the pudding cool slightly before serving. Optional: Top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or powdered sugar for extra indulgence.

Tip: Keep an eye on the pudding during the last 10 minutes of baking. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Choose the right donuts: Day-old donuts work best because they hold their shape better when soaked in custard.
• Don’t skip the soaking time: Letting the donuts sit in the custard ensures they absorb all the flavors and achieve the perfect texture.
• Customize the sweetness: If your donuts are already super sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the custard.
• Use a water bath: For an even creamier texture, place your baking dish in a larger pan filled with hot water while baking.
• Test for doneness: The pudding is ready when the custard is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls like soggy texture or uneven baking, ensuring your dessert turns out perfect every time!

Variations & Adaptations

• Seasonal twist: Add pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired flavor, or fresh berries for a summery touch.
• Dietary adjustments: Use almond milk and coconut cream for a dairy-free version, or gluten-free donuts if needed.
• Flavor boost: Experiment with different extracts like almond, maple, or even orange zest for a unique flavor profile.

I once swapped the cinnamon donuts for chocolate ones and added a swirl of peanut butter into the custard—it was divine! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This donut bread pudding stuffing is best served warm, straight out of the oven. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for maximum indulgence.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it just as delicious the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While this recipe is an indulgent treat, it’s worth noting some of the benefits:

• Rich in calcium: The milk and cream provide a good dose of calcium for strong bones.
• Source of protein: Eggs add a nice protein boost to balance the sweetness.
• Comfort food for the soul: Sometimes, a sweet treat is just what you need to brighten your day!

Please note: If you have gluten sensitivity or dairy allergies, make substitutions as needed to enjoy this recipe safely.

Conclusion

This irresistible donut bread pudding stuffing is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of comfort food with a sweet twist. Whether you make it for a holiday gathering or just because, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. I love how versatile and forgiving this recipe is, making it perfect for experimenting and customizing to your heart’s content.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below, share your variations, or tag me on social media when you make it. And remember—sometimes the best recipes are the ones that surprise us. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use fresh donuts instead of day-old ones?

Absolutely! Fresh donuts work fine, but day-old ones tend to hold their shape better and absorb the custard more evenly.

What type of donuts work best for this recipe?

Glazed or cinnamon donuts are ideal, but you can experiment with chocolate, maple, or jelly-filled donuts for unique flavors.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pudding and refrigerate it before baking. Bake it fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.

How do I prevent the pudding from becoming soggy?

Let the donuts soak in the custard for 10-15 minutes before baking, and avoid overloading with liquid ingredients.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for best results.

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