This Instant Pot bread pudding is the ultimate one-pot recipe—effortless, rich, and packed with comforting flavors. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking process, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a custard-like delight.
The pressure cooker ensures a perfectly moist texture, making this an easy yet indulgent treat for any occasion.
Why This One-Pot Recipe Stands Out
A one-pot dessert that delivers restaurant-quality results? Yes, please! This pressure cooker bread pudding is effortless yet luxurious.
The Instant Pot creates the perfect steam environment, ensuring the pudding stays soft and creamy without drying out. Plus, it eliminates the need for constant oven monitoring, making it an excellent choice for busy days.
Easy Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
This dessert relies on pantry staples and simple dairy-based ingredients to achieve its signature custard-like texture. The secret lies in using slightly stale bread, which absorbs the rich, velvety mixture without becoming too soggy.
A splash of vanilla and a touch of sweetness elevate the flavors, creating a perfectly balanced treat. Best of all, everything comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Customizing Your Bread Pudding
This one-pot recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
- Add a twist: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of bourbon for extra depth.
- Incorporate mix-ins: Toss in chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts for added texture.
- Make it dairy-free: Swap out milk and cream for coconut or almond milk.
- Experiment with bread types: While challah is ideal, brioche or French bread works just as well.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
Once your bread pudding is set, the fun part begins—serving it up with irresistible toppings! A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce takes it to the next level.
Fresh berries add a refreshing contrast, while a dusting of powdered sugar enhances the presentation. Serve it warm for the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Store & Reheat This One-Pot Recipe
Leftovers? No problem! This Instant Pot bread pudding stores well and tastes just as delicious the next day.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds or bake at 300°F for 10 minutes to retain the texture.
Why the Instant Pot Makes Dessert So Effortless
The Instant Pot isn’t just for savory meals—it’s a powerhouse for making foolproof desserts. The high-pressure setting allows flavors to develop deeply, while the steam function prevents dryness.
With minimal effort and maximum results, this one-pot recipe proves that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated.
Tasty Bread Pudding One-Pot Recipe for Instant Pot
Equipment
- 1 ½-quart round soufflé dish or similar-sized ceramic dish
- 6-quart or larger pressure cooker
Ingredients
- 5 large egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons 2⅔ ounces sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon table salt
- 1¼ cups heavy cream
- 1¼ cups milk
- 8 ounces challah cut into 1-inch pieces (6 cups), staled overnight
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Gradually whisk in cream and milk until combined. Add challah pieces and toss to coat. Let sit for about 20 minutes, occasionally pressing the bread to absorb the liquid.
- Place the Instant Pot trivet in the bottom of the insert and add 1½ cups of water. Create an aluminum foil sling (16 x 6 inches) to help lift the dish. Rest the 1½-quart soufflé dish in the center of the sling, then pour in the soaked challah mixture and spread it evenly. Use the sling to carefully lower the dish into the Instant Pot, ensuring the foil edges rest along the pot’s sides.
- Lock the lid, close the pressure release valve, and select high pressure cook for 45 minutes.
- Once the timer ends, turn off the pressure cooker and perform a quick release. Carefully remove the lid, allowing steam to escape away from you. Using the sling, lift the soufflé dish out and transfer it to a wire rack. Let the pudding set for about 10 minutes before serving.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles. Also an aspiring cook we he researches and tries all kinds of different food recipes and shares what works best.