Maple Toffee Bread Pudding – Easy Homemade Dessert Recipe

If you love warm, comforting desserts that melt in your mouth, this maple toffee bread pudding is about to become your new favorite recipe. I first made it on a cold winter evening when I had leftover bread and wanted something sweet without too much effort. The smell of maple syrup bubbling with butter and spices filled the kitchen, and the whole family kept asking when it would be ready.
This recipe brings together soft bread, creamy custard, and rich maple-toffee flavor in every bite. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for holidays, gatherings, or cozy nights at home.
If you’re looking for an easy homemade maple toffee bread pudding recipe that always impresses, you’re in the right place.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

6 cups brioche or French bread, cut into cubes
3 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup pure maple syrup
½ cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp salt
½ cup toffee bits or chopped soft caramel candy

For the Maple Toffee Sauce

½ cup pure maple syrup
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp butter
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread

Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Add the cubed bread inside and spread it evenly.

2. Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
Add the milk, cream, maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Whisk until fully combined.

3. Combine Bread and Custard

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
Gently press the bread down so it absorbs all the liquid.
Sprinkle the toffee bits on top.

4. Rest and Bake

Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.

5. Prepare the Maple Toffee Sauce

Add the maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream to a saucepan.
Cook over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
Stir for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add a pinch of salt and remove from heat.

6. Serve

Pour the warm sauce over the bread pudding just before serving.
Enjoy while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

1. Use Day-Old Bread for Best Texture

Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better and prevents the pudding from becoming mushy.

2. Add Nuts or Dried Fruit

Chopped pecans, walnuts, raisins, or dried cranberries can add texture and flavor depth.

3. Swap the Sweetener

If you want a deeper caramel taste, replace half the maple syrup with date syrup.

Storing & Reheating

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10 minutes.

Freezer

Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Best Reheating Method

The oven is the best option — it restores the slight crisp edges and keeps the center soft and custardy.

FAQs

1. Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Assemble everything (without baking), cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bake when ready.

2. Can I use gluten-free bread?

Yes, gluten-free brioche or thick sandwich bread works well.

3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with evaporated milk or extra whole milk, though the pudding will be slightly lighter.

4. Can I reduce the sweetness?

Absolutely. Reduce the brown sugar to ⅓ cup and use ⅓ cup maple syrup in the custard.

5. Why is my bread pudding soggy?

You may have used very soft bread. Toast the bread cubes for 5–7 minutes before adding the custard to help them absorb without becoming mushy.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per Serving)

Calories: 390
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 56g
Fat: 16g

(Values may vary depending on bread type and toppings.)

This cozy maple toffee bread pudding is the perfect combination of warm, sweet, and comforting flavors. It’s an easy dessert that works for holidays, weekends, or any time you want something homemade and satisfying.
If you make this recipe, let me know in the comments — and don’t forget to share it with someone who loves maple desserts! Explore more comforting recipes on the blog for even more inspiration.