The Ultimate Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe: Copycat Comfort Food

Golden Corral Bread Pudding: A Nostalgic Treat

Indulge in the comforting taste of Golden Corral’s iconic bread pudding with this authentic copycat recipe. Our take on this beloved dessert combines the perfect balance of rich custard, tender bread, and a hint of warm cinnamon.

The Secret to Golden Corral’s Signature Bread Pudding

• Soft, fluffy Challah bread, toasted to perfection and mixed with a blend of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• A rich custard made with heavy cream, eggs, and a touch of vanilla extract, carefully crafted to create a creamy, velvety texture.

Getting Started

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and gather the following ingredients:

• 240 g (1 cup) Challah bread, cubed
• 120 g (1/2 cup) brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Stay tuned for the full recipe and cooking instructions in our next section.

Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe Card

This quick reference guide provides the essential ingredients and instructions for the Golden Corral bread pudding recipe. Print it out for easy access in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 240 g / 1 cup cubed bread
• 150 g / 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 120 ml / 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F.
2. Combine bread, sugar, and cinnamon in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and eggs.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix well.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

With this printable recipe card, you can easily make the delicious Golden Corral bread pudding at home. Simply follow the instructions and enjoy the warm, comforting dessert.

Golden Corral-Style Bread Pudding: Ingredients

Ready to recreate that iconic Golden Corral bread pudding? Here’s everything you’ll need to make it happen.

• 12 slices of stale bread – Stale bread is key for a perfect texture. Day-old white bread works well, but you can experiment with challah or brioche for a richer flavor.
• 240 g / 1 cup granulated sugar
• 120 ml / ½ cup milk
• 120 ml / ½ cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Additions:

• ½ cup raisins or chopped dates – for a touch of sweetness and chewiness.
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts – for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Bread Pudding

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Golden Corral-style bread pudding at home.

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) for at least 15 minutes before starting the recipe.
2. Prepare the bread: Tear 400g (4 cups) of stale bread into 2.5cm (1-inch) pieces and place them in a large bowl.
3. Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 120g (4.3 oz) of unsalted butter over low heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Add sugar and spices: Once the butter has melted, add 240g (1 cup) of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg to the saucepan. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. Whisk in eggs and milk: Whisk in 2 large eggs and 240ml (1 cup) of whole milk until the mixture is well combined.
6. Add vanilla extract: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to give the bread pudding a rich flavor.
7. Combine bread and liquid mixture: Add the bread to the saucepan and stir until the bread is evenly coated with the liquid mixture.
8. Transfer to a baking dish: Transfer the bread mixture to a 20x20cm (8×8-inch) baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
9. Dot with butter: Dot the top of the bread pudding with the remaining 30g (1 oz) of unsalted butter.
10. Bake until golden brown: Bake the bread pudding in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until it’s golden brown on top and set in the center.
11. Let it rest: Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations:

• For a crispy top, broil the bread pudding for 2-3 minutes after baking.
• To add extra flavor, stir in 120g (1 cup) of dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, into the bread mixture before baking.
• For a chocolate twist, stir in 60g (2 oz) of melted chocolate into the bread mixture before baking.

Pro Tips for Elevating Your Bread Pudding

To achieve a decadent Golden Corral bread pudding, it’s essential to pay attention to detail. Experienced bakers swear by the following tips to ensure a perfect dessert every time.

• Choose the right bread: Day-old bread is ideal, as it soaks up the liquid ingredients better. Opt for a mix of 240 g / 1 cup white bread and 120 g / 1/2 cup raisin bread for added sweetness.
• Avoid overmixing: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together to prevent a dense pudding. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined.
• Bake at the correct temperature: Preheat the oven to 165°C / 325°F to prevent the top from browning too quickly. This ensures a golden-brown crust and a moist interior.

Common Pitfalls to Watch Out For

Be mindful of the following mistakes that can ruin an otherwise perfect bread pudding:

1. Overbaking: Check the pudding after 35-40 minutes. It’s done when it’s set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Insufficient soaking time: Allow the bread to soak in the liquid ingredients for at least 30 minutes to ensure it’s fully saturated.

By following these pro tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll be well on your way to creating a show-stopping Golden Corral bread pudding that’s sure to impress.

Get Creative with Your Bread Pudding

Love the taste of Golden Corral’s iconic bread pudding but want to put your own spin on it? You absolutely can! This recipe is a guideline, but feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Bread Choices

While cubed challah bread is the traditional choice, other breads work beautifully too. Consider using brioche for a richer flavor, sourdough for a tangy twist, or even croissants for an extra buttery indulgence.

Sweetener Swaps

Sugar is the standard sweetener, but you can adjust it to your preference. Brown sugar adds a caramel-like depth, while honey or maple syrup offer a touch of natural sweetness.

Spice It Up

Don’t be afraid to play with spices! A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom can elevate your bread pudding to new heights. For a warm, cozy flavor, try adding a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

Optional Additions

• Dried fruit: Raisins, cranberries, chopped dates, or apricots add bursts of sweetness and texture (about 120 g / 1 cup).
• Nuts: Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds provide a satisfying crunch (about 60 g / 1/2 cup).
• Chocolate chips: For a decadent treat, fold in a handful of chocolate chips (about 60 g / 1/2 cup).

Delicious Variations on the Golden Corral Bread Pudding

Take your bread pudding to the next level with these exciting flavor combinations and toppings.

• Cinnamon Apple Delight

  Add diced apples and a hint of cinnamon to the bread mixture. Top with a crumbly oat and brown sugar streusel for a sweet and crunchy finish.

  Prep Time: 20 minutes; Bake Time: 35-40 minutes

• Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Pudding

  Mix in mashed bananas and dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.

• Pecan Praline Bread Pudding

  Add a crunchy pecan praline topping and a hint of maple syrup for a rich and indulgent flavor.

  Prep Time: 25 minutes; Bake Time: 40-45 minutes

• Orange Creamsicle Bread Pudding

  Mix in orange zest and juice, then top with a creamy orange glaze for a bright and citrusy dessert.

  Prep Time: 20 minutes; Bake Time: 35-40 minutes

Storing and Reheating Your Golden Corral Bread Pudding

To maintain the freshness and flavor of your Golden Corral bread pudding, proper storage is essential. Allow the bread pudding to cool completely on a wire rack before storing it in an airtight container at room temperature (around 20°C / 68°F) for up to 2 days.

For longer storage, refrigerate the bread pudding at a temperature of 4°C / 39°F or below for up to 5 days. Wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture and other flavors from affecting the pudding.

• Reheat individual portions in the microwave on high for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
• For a larger quantity, reheat the bread pudding in a preheated oven at 150°C / 300°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Remember to check the bread pudding for any signs of spoilage before consuming it, such as an off smell or slimy texture. By following these storage and reheating guidelines, you can enjoy your Golden Corral bread pudding for a longer period while maintaining its delicious flavor and texture.

Common Bread Pudding Problems and Solutions

Don’t let a few baking hiccups stop you from enjoying a delicious Golden Corral-style bread pudding! Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

1. Bread Pudding Too Dry

   Possible Cause: Overbaking or not enough custard mixture.

   Solution: Reduce baking time by a few minutes, or add a splash of milk or cream to the custard mixture before pouring it over the bread.

2. Bread Pudding Too Wet

   Possible Cause: Not enough bread, or too much custard mixture.

   Solution: Add more bread to the pan, or reduce the amount of custard mixture slightly.

3. Bread Pudding Not Set

   Possible Cause: Oven temperature too low, or not baking long enough.

   Solution: Increase the oven temperature by 10-15°C (18-27°F) or bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking for doneness.

Remember, baking is a science, but don’t be afraid to experiment! With a little practice, you’ll be making perfect Golden Corral-style bread pudding every time.

Nutritional Information for Golden Corral Bread Pudding

This rich dessert is a treat, but it’s essential to understand its nutritional impact.

• Per serving (approx. 1/8 of the recipe):
• Calories: 420 (°C: 72, °F: 161)
• Total Fat: 24g (36% of the Daily Value)
• Sodium: 350mg (15% of the Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g (13% of the Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% of the Daily Value)
• Sugars: 24g
• Protein: 6g

Please note that this recipe is not suitable for gluten-free (GF), dairy-free (DF), or vegan diets.

Frequently Asked Questions About Golden Corral Bread Pudding

Before attempting the Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe, consider the following common questions and answers:

• What type of bread is best for this recipe? Day-old bread, preferably a mix of white and whole wheat, works well. Cut it into 2.5 cm / 1-inch cubes for even baking.
• Can I use alternative types of milk? Yes, almond, soy, or coconut milk can replace traditional milk in a 475 ml / 2-cup ratio.
• What is the ideal baking temperature and time? Preheat the oven to 165°C / 325°F and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
• How do I store leftover bread pudding? Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months.

By understanding these key points, the Golden Corral Bread Pudding Recipe can be successfully replicated at home, yielding a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert.

Key Takeaways for Baking the Perfect Golden Corral Bread Pudding

Unlocking the secret to Golden Corral’s legendary bread pudding is all about nailing a few key elements. Here are the essentials for a pudding that’s rich, custardy, and bursting with flavor:

1. Stale Bread is Best: Day-old bread works wonders here. It absorbs the custard beautifully, creating a luxuriously moist texture.
2. Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the bread into the custard mixture. Overmixing can lead to a tough pudding.
3. Evenly Distribute the Custard: Ensure every piece of bread is coated with custard for consistent baking.
4. Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Baking at a lower temperature (175°C/350°F) for a longer time allows the custard to set perfectly and prevents the top from burning.
5. Patience is Key: Resist the urge to check the pudding too often. Let it bake undisturbed for the full amount of time for optimal results.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to recreating Golden Corral’s iconic bread pudding in your own kitchen.

From the Kitchen of Sarah

I still remember the first time I tasted Golden Corral’s signature bread pudding. It was a game-changer – rich, decadent, and comfortingly familiar. I knew I had to recreate it at home, and after months of experimentation, I finally nailed the recipe.

My love for this bread pudding recipe goes beyond its irresistible flavor. It brings back memories of family gatherings and holidays spent with loved ones. There’s something special about sharing a warm, gooey slice with those you care about.

My version of Golden Corral bread pudding recipe stays true to the original, with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I’ve served it at countless dinner parties and potlucks.

Now, I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you. Whether you’re a fan of Golden Corral or just looking for a delicious dessert to impress, this bread pudding is sure to become a new favorite.

Enjoy Your Golden Corral-Inspired Bread Pudding!

Now that you’ve prepared this delicious Golden Corral bread pudding recipe, it’s time to indulge and share your experience with fellow bread pudding lovers. This mouthwatering dessert is sure to become a favorite, with its perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, fluffy center.

As you take your first bite, notice the subtle blend of cinnamon and nutmeg that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and eggs. The combination is truly irresistible, making this Golden Corral-inspired bread pudding recipe a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

• Share your bread pudding creations on social media and tag us to connect with our community of bread pudding enthusiasts.
• Experiment with different ingredient combinations to make the recipe your own and share your unique twists with us.
• Join our conversation and let us know what you think of this Golden Corral bread pudding recipe – we’d love to hear your feedback and see your results!