Caramel Coffee Bread Pudding

[Serene]

Enjoy caramel and coffee!

Ingredients:​

• For the Bread Pudding:
  • 6 cups cubed day-old bread (French or Italian bread works well)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup brewed strong coffee (hot or cold)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Caramel Sauce:
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup brewed strong coffee
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• For Serving (Optional):
  • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Instructions:​

1. Prepare the Bread Pudding:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized dish.
   • Place the cubed bread in a large bowl and set aside.
   • In another bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, brewed coffee, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
   • Pour the custard mixture over the cubed bread and gently toss to coat. Allow the mixture to sit for 15-30 minutes so the bread can absorb the custard.
2. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar until it turns a golden brown color, swirling the pan occasionally (do not stir).
   • Once melted, carefully add the butter and whisk until smooth.
   • Slowly pour in the heavy cream and coffee, continuing to whisk until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
3. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
   • Drizzle about half of the caramel sauce over the top of the bread pudding.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set in the center and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
4. Serve:
   • Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving.
   • Serve warm with the remaining caramel sauce drizzled over the top, and with optional whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.

This Caramel Coffee Bread Pudding is a rich, indulgent dessert that pairs the sweetness of caramel with the boldness of coffee for a truly satisfying treat. Enjoy!