Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe

ByAmanda
Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 8 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s cozy, comforting, and packs a little Irish charm, you absolutely have to try this Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe. Trust me, it’s one of those dishes that instantly warms your heart—and your kitchen—with sweet aromas and a drizzle of boozy goodness that leaves you smiling. Whether you’re cooking for St. Patrick’s Day, a family gathering, or just because you feel like spoiling yourself, this bread pudding is where it’s at.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Perfect Texture Balance: The day-old French bread soaks up the custard wonderfully, giving that soft center with a lightly crisp top every time.
  • Rich, Classic Flavors: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and Irish whiskey creates a nostalgic, inviting flavor profile that’s simply unforgettable.
  • Decadent Whiskey Sauce: The homemade sauce is silky, sweet, and boozy without overpowering, perfect for drizzling generously.
  • Simple Yet Impressive: Uses pantry staples and minimal fuss but serves up like a restaurant-quality dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce, Irish bread pudding, whiskey sauce dessert, St. Patrick's Day Irish dessert, cozy bread pudding recipe - A clear bowl filled with two main layers of cubed bread pieces; the outer layer consists of plain white bread cubes with soft, fluffy texture and pale cream color, while the inner layer contains slightly darker bread cubes coated in a brown sauce, giving them a moist and shiny look. The cubes are uneven in size and shape, arranged loosely in the bowl on a wooden surface, which should be imagined as a white marbled texture. The overall look is a mix of dry and saucy pieces, arranged from the center to the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before diving in, let me walk you through what goes into this Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe and why these ingredients are the real MVPs. Once you’ve got these basics down, you’ll nail the texture and flavor every time.

Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce, Irish bread pudding, whiskey sauce dessert, St. Patrick's Day Irish dessert, cozy bread pudding recipe - Flat lay of day-old rustic French bread cubes, two whole brown eggs with clean shells, a small white bowl of fresh golden raisins, a small white bowl of white milk, a small white bowl of unsalted butter cubes, a small white bowl of brown sugar, a small white bowl of golden Irish whiskey, a small white bowl of granulated sugar, a small white bowl of ground cinnamon, a small white bowl of grated nutmeg, a small white bowl of heavy whipping cream, and a swirl of fresh whipped cream on a simple white ceramic plate, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Milk: Whole milk gives the pudding a creamy base; it’s mild enough to marry well with whiskey and spices.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness without extra salt, important because you control seasoning elsewhere here.
  • Sugar: Sweetens lightly to balance spices and whiskey; adjust to your taste if you like it less sweet.
  • Eggs: The key binder, eggs create that custardy texture that holds the pudding together perfectly.
  • Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Classic warming spices that complement the whiskey and raisins beautifully.
  • Irish Whiskey: Brings authentic Irish character and warmth to both the pudding and sauce.
  • Day-old French Bread: The star carb—dry enough to absorb moisture but still soft, giving the pudding its iconic texture.
  • Raisins: Little bursts of sweetness that contrast with the creamy custard and add nice chew.
  • Whipped Cream Spray: Optional topping that’s quick and adds a light, airy touch.
  • Brown Sugar (for sauce): Deep, molasses-y sweetness perfect for whiskey sauce.
  • Heavy Whipping Cream: Makes the sauce luscious and smooth.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of the fun parts about this Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe is how easy it is to adapt. I like playing with it depending on the season or who’s coming over. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

  • Swap the raisins: I sometimes use chopped dried apricots or cranberries for a slightly tart twist — they balance the rich custard nicely.
  • Add nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and depth if you like textural contrast.
  • Dairy-free version: Try almond or oat milk, and coconut oil instead of butter if you’re avoiding dairy.
  • Extra boozy: For adult-only gatherings, double the Irish whiskey in the sauce for a bolder kick — just don’t skip the heavy cream to keep it smooth.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Bread and Mix the Custard

First, preheat your oven to 350°F because you want it ready when your pudding mixture is good to go. Grab your day-old French bread and cut it into 1-inch cubes — I find a serrated bread knife works best without squashing the slices. Toss these cubes into a big mixing bowl. Next, melt your milk and butter on medium heat in a small saucepan; you want it warm and smooth but not boiling.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Flavorful Custard Mix

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and Irish whiskey together until well combined. When that’s done, pour the egg mixture over your bread cubes and gently stir to coat them all evenly. Then pour the warm milk and melted butter over and mix everything again. Finally, fold in those juicy raisins — I like to save a few for topping later.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spray your ramekins or baking dish with nonstick spray and spoon the pudding mixture evenly into them. Pop them on a cookie sheet to catch any drips and bake for 40–50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tops are golden brown and the custard is set but still slightly soft in the middle. Let them cool completely — your pudding might sink a little, which is perfectly normal.

Step 4: Whip Up That Gorgeous Irish Whiskey Sauce

While your pudding cools but is still warm, start on the whiskey sauce. Combine brown sugar, butter, Irish whiskey, and heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until smooth and glossy — it only takes a few minutes. Drizzle generously over each serving just before you add whipped cream and extra raisins on top.

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Pro Tips for Making Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe

  • Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread is too soft and won’t hold the custard well, so let your French bread get a bit stale or lightly toast it to dry out.
  • Gentle Mixing: Stir gently when combining to avoid squishing the bread cubes; you want nice pieces soaking up the custard, not mush.
  • Don’t Skip Cooling: Allow the pudding to cool so it sets properly; it may sink a bit but will taste just as heavenly.
  • Whiskey Sauce Finish: Make the sauce last minute to keep its smooth texture, and warm it slightly if stored before drizzling.

How to Serve Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe

Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce, Irish bread pudding, whiskey sauce dessert, St. Patrick's Day Irish dessert, cozy bread pudding recipe - Two white ramekins filled with layered bread pudding are placed on a white marbled surface. Each ramekin shows three main layers: a chunky, golden-brown bread layer with soft texture at the bottom and middle, covered with a shiny caramel sauce with raisins scattered on top and throughout. The top layer is a generous swirl of white whipped cream sitting neatly on the caramel sauce. Behind the ramekins is a green and white checkered cloth with soft folds, and the background is rustic wood with vertical planks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I’m all about those little extras that elevate a simple dish — I love topping the pudding with some fresh whipped cream (a quick spray works great when you’re in a hurry) and a handful of plump raisins for that perfect burst of sweetness. Sometimes I sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon on top for a little visual and flavor kick too.

Side Dishes

This Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe is often a dessert finale, but if you’re looking for a cozy meal vibe, I like to serve it alongside a cup of strong Irish breakfast tea or coffee. For a brunch twist, pair with fresh fruit salad or a light green salad to balance richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, I’ve served this in individual mini ramekins topped with whipped cream and a few mint leaves or even edible flowers for a festive look. You could also bake it in a large cast iron skillet to give a rustic, homey presentation that really wows guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover bread pudding? No shame here — cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days. I usually enjoy it cold or warmed the next day for a quick breakfast treat with some milk or coffee.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Frozen pudding lasts about a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, microwave on medium power in short bursts to avoid drying out, or rewarm in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes covered with foil. Then drizzle with warm whiskey sauce again before serving to freshen up that boozy, luscious taste.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of bread for this Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe?

    Absolutely! While French bread is recommended because of its texture and neutral flavor, you can also use brioche, challah, or even a sturdy sourdough if you want a richer or tangier base. Just make sure the bread is a day or two old so it soaks up the custard without turning mushy.

  2. Is it necessary to use Irish whiskey?

    Irish whiskey really brings an authentic flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with another smooth whiskey or even a bourbon. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. You can also omit entirely for a kid-friendly version, just reduce the milk slightly to balance moisture.

  3. Can I make the Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe dairy-free?

    Yes! Swap the milk for a full-fat plant-based milk like almond or oat, and use a non-dairy butter or coconut oil. For the sauce, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. The texture will be a touch different but still creamy and delicious.

  4. What if I don’t like raisins?

    No worries—try swapping raisins for dried cherries, cranberries, or chopped dates. Alternatively, leave out dried fruit entirely and add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a fun twist.

  5. Why does my bread pudding sometimes turn out soggy?

    That usually happens if the bread is too fresh or if you pour on too much custard. Make sure to use day-old bread so it absorbs moisture without falling apart. Also, mix gently and bake until the top is golden and the custard is set but not wet in the middle.

Final Thoughts

This Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe is like a warm hug on a plate—one that’s a bit boozy, a bit sweet, and a whole lot comforting. I remember the first time I made it for a chilly evening and how the entire house smelled like a cozy Irish pub. If you’re looking for a dessert that feels both fancy and approachable, this one’s your ticket. Give it a go—I promise it’ll become one of your go-to recipes whenever you want a little Irish magic on your table.

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Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 8 reviews
  • Author: Amanda
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Irish
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Description

This classic Irish Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce is a delightful dessert combining rich bread pudding infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and Irish whiskey, topped with a smooth whiskey sauce and whipped cream. Perfectly baked to a golden brown and bursting with warm spices, it’s an indulgent treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Irish Bread Pudding

  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup Irish whiskey
  • 6 cups day old French bread, cubed
  • 1/2 cup raisins plus some for topping
  • 1 can whipped cream spray

Irish Whiskey Sauce

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon Irish whiskey
  • 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the bread pudding.
  2. Prepare Ramekins: Spray your ramekins with non-stick spray and place them on a cookie sheet for stability while baking.
  3. Cube Bread: Using a bread knife, cut the day old French bread into 1-inch cubes and set them aside in a large bowl.
  4. Melt Milk and Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the milk and unsalted butter over medium heat until combined and warm.
  5. Mix Eggs and Spices: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Irish whiskey, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully blended.
  6. Combine Mixtures: Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes and stir until the bread is well coated. Then pour the warm milk and butter mixture over the bread and mix again to combine thoroughly.
  7. Add Raisins: Stir in 1/2 cup of raisins to the bread mixture for added texture and sweetness.
  8. Fill Ramekins: Equally distribute the bread pudding mixture into the prepared ramekins on the cookie sheet.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the pudding is set.
  10. Cool: Remove from oven and allow the bread pudding to cool completely. The pudding will slightly sink as it cools, which is normal.
  11. Prepare Whiskey Sauce: While the pudding is still warm, combine brown sugar, unsalted butter, Irish whiskey, and heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
  12. Serve: Drizzle the warm whiskey sauce over the bread pudding, top with additional raisins and a generous spray of whipped cream. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.
  • If you prefer less alcohol flavor, reduce the Irish whiskey slightly or substitute with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Use a sturdy bread like French or brioche for the best texture.
  • To prevent sticking, use non-stick spray or lightly butter the ramekins before filling.
  • Letting the pudding cool slightly helps the sauce adhere better and enhances the flavor melding.
  • The whipped cream can be homemade or canned according to preference.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 35 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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