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The COZY Maple Walnut Bread Pudding
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The COZY Maple Walnut Bread Pudding

Soft, flaky croissants and toasted walnuts are baked in a rich maple custard, then drizzled with a luxurious brown butter maple sauce. This cozy, decadent bread pudding is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Prep Time1 hour
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time4 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 640kcal

Equipment

  • oven
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • 8-inch baking dish
  • saucepan
  • baking sheet
  • spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients

  • 14 ounces croissants cut or torn into pieces (or substitute brioche or challah)
  • 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts toasted
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar for topping
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar for brown butter sauce
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt for sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream for sauce
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup for sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for sauce

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Scatter torn croissants on a baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes until dry and lightly golden. Toast walnuts in the same oven for 8–10 minutes, then let cool.
  • In a large bowl, whisk maple syrup, brown sugar, egg yolks, egg, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Add heavy cream and milk; whisk until well combined.
  • Fold in the croissants until fully saturated in the custard, then gently fold in toasted walnuts.
  • Pour the mixture into a greased 8-inch square baking dish, pressing down gently to submerge all pieces. Let soak for at least 2 hours (or overnight in the refrigerator).
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Sprinkle 1 tablespoon sugar evenly over the top and bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden and set.
  • For the brown butter maple sauce: Combine sugar, flour, and salt in a small bowl. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring until golden brown and nutty. Whisk in the sugar mixture, then slowly add cream. Simmer until thickened, then stir in maple syrup and vanilla.
  • Serve warm bread pudding drizzled generously with brown butter maple sauce. Garnish with extra walnuts if desired.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tips:
• The pudding can soak overnight in the refrigerator; bring to room temperature before baking.
• Substitute brioche or challah for croissants if desired.
• For an extra-decadent twist, add a splash of bourbon to the sauce.
Serving: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Perfect for holidays or Sunday brunch.