If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, look no further than this Peach Bread Pudding with Brown Sugar Sauce Recipe. Imagine tender cubes of bread soaked in a luscious custard, studded with sweet, juicy peaches, then baked until golden and cozy. The crowning glory is a decadent brown sugar sauce that pours over every bite, making this dish not only irresistibly delicious but an absolute showstopper at your dinner table. It’s rustic, homey, and packed with such rich, inviting flavors that it quickly becomes a favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two white ceramic bowls with handles sit on a well-used metal tray. Each bowl is filled with roughly cut, soft bread cubes that are light golden brown with some parts showing a deeper brown crust. Underneath the bread chunks, there is a layer of bright yellow fruit pieces, likely peaches, adding a pop of color. The metal tray’s surface shows signs of wear with rust and stains, contrasting with the clean white bowls. The whole setting rests on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the list intimidate you—these ingredients are humble staples, yet each one plays an essential role in bringing this peach bread pudding to life. From the creamy custard mixture to the sweet peaches and that dreamy brown sugar sauce, every component adds a layer of flavor and texture that makes this recipe shine.

4 cups bread cubes: Using slightly stale bread cut into 1-inch cubes helps absorb the custard perfectly without becoming mushy.
2 cups peaches: Fresh, peeled and chopped or thawed frozen peaches provide bursts of juicy sweetness throughout the pudding.
3 large eggs: Eggs form the rich custard base that binds all the ingredients together beautifully.
1/2 cup white granulated sugar: Adds the right amount of sweetness to the custard for a balanced flavor.
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (35% b.f.): Creaminess that makes the pudding super rich and silky.
2 cups whole milk (3-3.5% b.f.): Lightens up the custard while keeping it velvety.
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste): Infuses a beautiful aroma and depth of flavor.
4 teaspoons white granulated sugar (for topping): A little sprinkle on top before baking gives a lovely sweet crust.
1/4 cup salted butter: The base for the brown sugar sauce, adding richness and a hint of saltiness.
1/2 cup light or dark brown sugar (packed): Provides that deep caramel flavor in the luscious topping sauce.
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream (35% b.f.): Makes the brown sugar sauce smooth and pourable.
Pinch salt: Balances the sweetness in the sauce to enhance all the flavors.

How to Make Peach Bread Pudding with Brown Sugar Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

Start by preheating your oven to 200°F. Cube your bread into 1-inch pieces and spread them on a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for about 10 to 15 minutes to dry out the bread, which helps prevent sogginess later on. You want the bread to be dried but not toasted or browned. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet before you move on to the next step. This simple prep ensures the bread will soak up the custard perfectly.

Step 2: Get the Baking Dish Ready

Next, raise your oven temperature to 350°F and grease 4 to 6 individual ramekins or one larger baking dish that can hold the bread and fruit mixture about 2 inches deep. Place the dish on a baking sheet for easy handling later. This step preps your vessel to hold all those wonderful layers of bread, peaches, and custard without sticking.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Peaches

Chop your peaches into bite-sized pieces, whether fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen. Toss these juicy chunks with the cooled bread cubes right on the baking sheet, then transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dishes, filling them to the very top. This layering helps ensure every spoonful bursts with tender bread and sweet peaches.

Step 4: Whisk the Custard

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, ½ cup white sugar, cream, milk, and vanilla until smooth. This custard is the magic that binds the bread and peaches, infusing the entire dish with creaminess and subtle sweetness.

Step 5: Soak and Sugar the Pudding

Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread and peaches in the baking dishes, filling them about three-quarters full. Let everything sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the custard. Lightly brush the tops with a bit more custard, then sprinkle roughly 1 teaspoon of white sugar over each dish. This final sugar sprinkle will caramelize beautifully while baking, giving the pudding that delightful lightly crisp top edge.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake the pudding at 350°F for 35 to 45 minutes, or until it is set and sitting under a golden crust. Keep an eye on it around 30 minutes; if the top starts to brown too fast, gently cover with foil to prevent over-browning. The end result will be a beautifully baked pudding that’s firm to the touch but wonderfully soft inside.

Step 7: Rest and Cool Slightly

Once baked, let the pudding stand for 10 minutes before serving. This rest allows flavors to settle and the pudding to finish setting perfectly. If you plan to eat it later, cool it completely for 10 minutes, cover, and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Step 8: Make the Brown Sugar Sauce

While your pudding is baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, cream, and a pinch of salt, bringing the mixture to a boil while stirring frequently. After it boils, continue cooking for a few more minutes, stirring regularly to develop a rich, glossy sauce. Pour the sauce into a bowl or small pitcher and refrigerate if not serving immediately. This sauce is pure indulgence and the perfect finishing touch.

Step 9: Serve with Warm Brown Sugar Sauce

Serve your peach bread pudding warm, at room temperature, or gently reheated, drizzling the warm brown sugar sauce generously on top. Place the ramekins on a plate to catch any of the luscious sauce that spills over the sides. Every bite dipped in sauce is pure comfort and joy.

How to Serve Peach Bread Pudding with Brown Sugar Sauce Recipe

Two white ceramic bowls with handles sit on a worn metal baking tray with rust spots. Each bowl is filled with uneven chunks of light golden and brown bread. A thick, creamy beige liquid is being poured into the bottom bowl from a glass container, creating a smooth texture over the bread pieces. The background is softened with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts adds delightful crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft pudding. For an elegant touch, top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts into the warm pudding beautifully. Fresh mint leaves can also brighten the presentation and add a pop of color.

Side Dishes

This peach bread pudding stands strong as a dessert but pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides when served at brunch or a special breakfast. Think crisp bacon or a simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette to balance out the sweetness. A cup of hot coffee or spiced chai complements the warm cinnamon and caramel notes of the pudding perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in pretty ramekins or small glass jars to wow your guests. Layer the pudding in a trifle dish with extra peaches and whipped cream for a stunning centerpiece. Or turn it into a breakfast parfait by adding granola and yogurt layers alongside the warm pudding—all delicious ways to enjoy this comforting recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover leftover peach bread pudding tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld and deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, this pudding freezes well. Place cooled portions in airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that the texture may be slightly softer after freezing but still absolutely delicious.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or until warmed through. For a crisper top, reheat in a low oven at 325°F for 10 to 15 minutes. Don’t forget to warm the brown sugar sauce separately before drizzling—it tastes best warm and gooey.

FAQs

Can I use frozen or canned peaches for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh, frozen (thawed), or canned peaches all work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to drain canned peaches well to avoid excess liquid, and thaw frozen peaches completely before use.

What type of bread is best for bread pudding?

Day-old or slightly stale white bread is ideal because it soaks up custard perfectly without turning to mush. Avoid dense breads like rye or whole grain, as they can alter the texture and flavor profile of the pudding.

Can I make the brown sugar sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The brown sugar sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator. Simply warm it gently before serving for that perfect pourable consistency.

Is it possible to make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?

This classic version relies on eggs, cream, and butter, but you can experiment with dairy-free milk alternatives, vegan butter, and egg substitutes. Keep in mind texture and flavor may vary, so it’s best to try a small batch first.

How do I know when the bread pudding is done baking?

The pudding should be golden on top and set in the middle but still slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

This Peach Bread Pudding with Brown Sugar Sauce Recipe is pure comfort food at its finest. Each bite offers that nostalgic warmth, balanced with the juicy sweetness of peaches and the rich indulgence of brown sugar sauce. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests with a heartfelt homemade dessert. Give it a try—you’ll find this recipe is one worth returning to again and again!