Coconut Cream Bread Pudding with Coconut Glaze: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Comfort Dessert

Bread pudding is a timeless dessert loved for its comforting, rich, and custardy texture. This recipe elevates traditional bread pudding by infusing it with creamy coconut flavors and a luscious coconut glaze. It’s perfect for those who want a dessert that’s both familiar and exotically delicious. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced home cook, this Coconut Cream Bread Pudding is simple to prepare, full of flavor, and ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to gather all your ingredients and prepare them properly. Here is what you will need for the bread pudding and the coconut glaze:

For the Bread Pudding:

• 1 loaf Italian or French bread (preferably stale for better custard absorption)
• 1 (15 oz) can full-fat coconut milk (for richness, or light coconut milk for a lighter option)
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 5 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers (adds crunch and flavor)
• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut

For the Coconut Glaze:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Preparation Tips:

• If you don’t have stale bread, cut fresh bread into 1-inch cubes and dry them out in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until lightly toasted. This step is key to help the bread soak up the custard without becoming mushy.
• Measure and crush the vanilla wafers ahead of time for easy mixing.
• Keep all dairy and eggs at room temperature for best mixing results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps to create the perfect Coconut Cream Bread Pudding:

1. Prepare the Bread Cubes
   Slice your bread into approximately 1-inch cubes. If fresh, dry them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to make them stale and slightly crispy. This ensures the bread absorbs the custard well without becoming too soggy.
2. Make the Custard Mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, whole milk, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Soak the Bread
   Add the bread cubes into the custard mixture. Stir gently, ensuring all pieces are soaked evenly. Allow the bread to soak for about 10 minutes, pressing the cubes down occasionally so they absorb the custard fully.
4. Add Texture and Flavor
   Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers and shredded coconut gently into the soaked bread mixture. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the coconut flavor throughout the pudding.
5. Prepare Baking Dish and Bake
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the bread pudding mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set in the center (a knife inserted should come out clean).
6. Make the Coconut Glaze
   While the pudding is baking, combine heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer. Lower the heat and cook for about 5 more minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
7. Serve with Warm Glaze
   Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the warm coconut glaze evenly over the top before serving for a rich, glossy finish.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Choosing the Bread: Using stale bread or drying out fresh bread in the oven is important. Fresh bread that is too soft will make your pudding overly mushy. Italian or French bread works best for its sturdy texture.
• Custard Mixture: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature to prevent curdling and to achieve a smooth custard. Whisk thoroughly to dissolve sugar and blend spices evenly.
• Soaking Time: Don’t rush soaking. Allowing the bread cubes to sit in the custard for at least 10 minutes helps them absorb the flavors and liquids fully.
• Glaze Thickness: If your glaze becomes too thick after cooling, gently warm it again over low heat and stir to loosen it. This glaze is best served warm and slightly runny to drizzle smoothly.
• Storage: Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warm before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Coconut Cream Bread Pudding is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in multiple ways:

• As a Breakfast Treat: Serve a warm slice alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting start to the day.
• Dessert Presentation: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate it into an indulgent dessert.
• Brunch Addition: Include it in a brunch spread with fresh tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, or sliced bananas for a refreshing complement.
• Family Gathering: Serve warm with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and presentation at family meals or special occasions.

Print

Engagement Features

Have you tried making this Coconut Cream Bread Pudding yet? What variations or additions do you enjoy? Perhaps you like to add fresh fruit or swap the vanilla wafers for crushed nuts? Feel free to share your experiences or ask questions below. If you experiment with a different type of milk or add spices like nutmeg or cardamom, let us know how it turned out. This recipe is perfect for customization and we love hearing how home cooks make it their own.

What are your favorite comfort desserts with a tropical twist? Share your ideas and recipes so we can keep discovering delicious flavors together.

This Coconut Cream Bread Pudding recipe is a perfect balance of rich coconut flavor, creamy custard texture, and crunchy surprises. With easy-to-follow steps and helpful tips, even beginner cooks can confidently create this delightful dish. Try it for your next dessert or weekend brunch and enjoy the warm, tropical comfort in every bite.