Introduction
When two beloved desserts come together, something truly magical happens. This Bread Pudding with Cheesecake combines the warm, comforting goodness of classic bread pudding with the rich, creamy decadence of cheesecake. The result is a dessert that’s incredibly indulgent, surprisingly easy to make, and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to grab a slice.
Traditional bread pudding has long been cherished for its soft custardy texture and cozy flavor. Cheesecake, on the other hand, is known for its velvety richness and irresistible creaminess. By layering these two desserts into one spectacular bake, you get the best of both worlds. Every bite features tender bread soaked in a sweet vanilla custard alongside pockets of creamy cheesecake filling that melt in your mouth.
I first made this recipe during the holiday season when I couldn’t decide whether to serve bread pudding or cheesecake. Rather than choosing one, I combined both into a single dessert. The reaction from family and friends was immediate—everyone wanted the recipe. Since then, it has become a favorite for special occasions, potlucks, brunches, and holiday dinners.
One of the things I love most about this dessert is its versatility. It can be served warm for ultimate comfort or chilled for a cheesecake-like experience. Add a drizzle of caramel sauce, fresh berries, or whipped cream, and you’ve got a dessert worthy of any celebration.
As it bakes, the aroma of vanilla, cinnamon, cream cheese, and buttery bread fills the kitchen with pure comfort.
Every bite delivers:
- Creamy cheesecake filling
- Soft custard-soaked bread
- Rich vanilla flavor
- Perfectly balanced sweetness
- Comfort-food appeal
- Bakery-style indulgence
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving something extraordinary, this Bread Pudding with Cheesecake is sure to become a treasured recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert offers the best of two classic favorites.
You’ll love it because:
- Combines cheesecake and bread pudding
- Rich and creamy texture
- Perfect for holidays
- Great make-ahead dessert
- Easy to customize
- Crowd-pleasing recipe
- Uses simple ingredients
- Perfect for special occasions
The creamy cheesecake pockets elevate traditional bread pudding into something truly unforgettable.
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Bake Time: 55 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 435
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 290mg
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding
- 8 cups day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Caramel sauce
- Fresh strawberries
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Toasted pecans
Ingredient Notes
Brioche Bread
Brioche provides a rich, buttery flavor and absorbs the custard beautifully.
Cream Cheese
Use full-fat cream cheese for the smoothest and richest cheesecake layer.
Heavy Cream
Adds richness and creates a luxurious custard.
Vanilla Extract
Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes.
Place in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Make the Custard
In a separate bowl whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Sugar
- Vanilla
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes.
Step 5: Soak
Allow the bread to soak for 10–15 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture
In a medium bowl beat together:
- Cream cheese
- Sugar
Step 7: Add Egg
Beat in the egg until smooth.
Step 8: Add Vanilla
Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 9: Blend Thoroughly
Continue mixing until silky smooth.
Step 10: Add Half the Bread Mixture
Spread half of the soaked bread mixture into the baking dish.
Step 11: Add Cheesecake Layer
Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the bread layer.
Step 12: Spread Lightly
Gently spread the cheesecake mixture as evenly as possible.
Step 13: Add Remaining Bread
Top with the remaining bread mixture.
Step 14: Press Gently
Lightly press the bread into the custard.
Step 15: Rest
Allow the assembled pudding to sit for 5 minutes.
Step 16: Bake
Place in the preheated oven.
Step 17: Bake Until Set
Bake for 50–55 minutes.
Step 18: Check Doneness
The center should be set but slightly soft.
Step 19: Cool Slightly
Remove from the oven.
Step 20: Rest
Allow the pudding to cool for 20 minutes.
Step 21: Add Toppings
Drizzle with caramel sauce or powdered sugar.
Step 22: Serve
Serve warm or chilled.
How to Serve
This dessert is delicious:
- Warm from the oven
- Chilled like cheesecake
- With whipped cream
- With caramel sauce
- With fresh berries
- For holiday brunches
- For special celebrations
Both warm and chilled versions are equally wonderful.
Additional Tips
Use Day-Old Bread
Slightly stale bread absorbs custard better.
Soften Cream Cheese
Room-temperature cream cheese creates a smoother filling.
Don’t Skip the Soaking Time
This ensures every piece of bread absorbs flavor.
Avoid Overbaking
The center should remain slightly soft.
Let It Rest
Cooling improves texture and makes slicing easier.
Use Quality Vanilla
Vanilla is a key flavor component.
Add Fruit
Fresh berries pair beautifully with the cheesecake layer.
Make It Ahead
The flavor improves after a few hours.
Use Brioche
The rich bread enhances the overall dessert.
Serve Warm
For maximum comfort-food appeal.
Recipe Variations
Strawberry Cheesecake Bread Pudding
Add diced strawberries between layers.
Blueberry Cheesecake Bread Pudding
Mix fresh blueberries into the bread mixture.
Chocolate Cheesecake Bread Pudding
Add chocolate chips throughout the pudding.
Cinnamon Roll Version
Use leftover cinnamon rolls instead of bread.
Caramel Cheesecake Bread Pudding
Add caramel sauce between layers.
Lemon Cheesecake Bread Pudding
Add lemon zest to the cheesecake mixture.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bread Pudding
Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice.
Mixed Berry Version
Use strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
Nutty Cheesecake Bread Pudding
Add chopped pecans or walnuts.
White Chocolate Cheesecake Bread Pudding
Mix white chocolate chips into the bread mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside:
- Fresh berries
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Fruit compote
- Caramel sauce
- Toasted nuts
For beverages, pair with:
- Coffee
- Cappuccino
- Chai tea
- Hot chocolate
- Vanilla latte
- Herbal tea
Freezing and Storage
Refrigerator
Store covered for up to 5 days.
Freezer
Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
Thawing
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Warm gently in the microwave or oven.
Make Ahead
Prepare one day ahead and refrigerate.
Best Texture
Enjoy within the first 48 hours for optimal creaminess.
Special Equipment
Helpful tools include:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Silicone spatula
An electric mixer helps create a silky smooth cheesecake filling with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It can be assembled a day in advance and baked when needed.
What bread works best?
Brioche, challah, and French bread all work wonderfully.
Can I serve it cold?
Absolutely. It tastes like a cross between cheesecake and bread pudding when chilled.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Why is my bread pudding dry?
It may have baked too long or used bread that absorbed too much liquid.
Can I add fruit?
Definitely. Berries are particularly delicious.
Do I need to use heavy cream?
Heavy cream creates the richest texture, but half-and-half can be substituted.
How do I know it’s done?
The center should be set but still slightly soft.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes, though plain cream cheese provides the most balanced flavor.
What topping works best?
Caramel sauce and fresh berries are the most popular choices.
Conclusion
This Bread Pudding with Cheesecake is the ultimate comfort dessert, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the cozy warmth of traditional bread pudding. Soft custard-soaked bread, silky cheesecake filling, and endless topping possibilities make every bite a truly special experience.
Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, brunches, or whenever you’re craving an indulgent homemade dessert, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something unforgettable. Once you taste the creamy layers and comforting flavors, it’s sure to become one of your most requested desserts.
