Introduction
Air Fryer Bread Pudding is a rich, comforting dessert made with day-old bread soaked in a creamy custard mixture and gently cooked until the inside is soft and moist while the top becomes lightly crisp. Using an air fryer significantly reduces cooking time compared to an oven, while still delivering a beautifully textured and flavorful dessert. This recipe is perfect for using leftover bread and can be customized with different add-ins and sauces.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding
- 4 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (white bread, brioche, challah, or French bread work best)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for extra richness; can be replaced with milk if needed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
Optional Sauce (Vanilla or Caramel)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Heat-safe baking dish or pan that fits inside the air fryer basket
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut the bread into even cubes. If the bread is fresh, lightly toast it in the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 3 to 4 minutes to dry it out slightly. Dry bread absorbs the custard better and prevents a soggy texture.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until smooth. Add milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread Pudding
Place the bread cubes into the baking dish. Sprinkle raisins and nuts evenly over the bread if using. Pour the custard mixture slowly over the bread, ensuring all pieces are well soaked. Gently press the bread down with a spoon so it absorbs the liquid evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
Let the mixture rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a soft and creamy interior.
Air Frying Instructions
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 170°C (340°F) for about 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Bread Pudding
Carefully place the baking dish into the air fryer basket. Cook at 170°C (340°F) for 18 to 22 minutes.
Check at the 15-minute mark. If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil and continue cooking.
The bread pudding is done when:
- The top is golden brown
- The center is set but still slightly soft
- A knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Remove the dish from the air fryer and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the custard finish setting and makes serving easier.
Optional Sauce Preparation
While the bread pudding rests, prepare the sauce if desired.
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, butter, and brown sugar. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
- Drizzle with vanilla or caramel sauce.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar for presentation.
Tips for Best Results
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread to prevent a mushy texture.
- Do not overfill the baking dish; air circulation is essential in an air fryer.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model and dish size.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or almond milk and plant-based butter.
Variations
- Chocolate Bread Pudding: Add chocolate chips to the bread mixture.
- Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding: Add finely chopped apples and extra cinnamon.
- Tropical Version: Use coconut milk and add shredded coconut and pineapple pieces.
- Savory Version: Reduce sugar and add cheese, herbs, and cooked vegetables.
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