Kentucky Bread Pudding

If you’ve ever been to Keeneland, you already know the bread pudding is famous. Warm, sweet, and covered in that bourbon sauce that makes you forget you lost every bet.

Now, I’m not claiming to have Keeneland’s secret recipe ... but I’ve made my own version inspired by one of my favorite Kentucky desserts.

And yes ... I use Sister Schubert’s rolls, just like Keeneland!

Of course, there’s bourbon.

Because this is Kentucky. We put bourbon in pretty much everything ... sauces, desserts, marinades, you name it.

Bread pudding is good, but bread pudding covered in warm bourbon sauce? Even better!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Soft, buttery rolls soak up all that sweet custard.

• It's easy to prepare with simple ingredients.

• Perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or Derby parties.

• That warm bourbon sauce makes it extra special.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

• 6 cups Sister Schubert’s rolls, torn into pieces

• 4 large eggs

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup bourbon

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

  
  

For the Warm Bourbon Sauce

• ½ cup butter

• 1 cup brown sugar

• ½ cup heavy whipping cream

• ½ cup bourbon

  
  

I sometimes double the bourbon sauce because that's everybody's favorite part!

How to Make Kentucky Bread Pudding

1. Prepare the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Tear the Sister Schubert’s rolls into bite-sized pieces and spread them evenly in the dish. If they're frozen, thaw them first.

2. Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, bourbon, vanilla, cinnamon, and melted butter.

3. Let the Bread Soak

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the rolls.

Gently press the bread down so it absorbs the liquid. Let everything sit for about 30 minutes.

4. Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for approximately 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil.

How to Make the Warm Bourbon Sauce

1. Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter.

2. Add the Sugar and Cream

Stir in the brown sugar and heavy whipping cream.

Continue stirring until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth.

3. Add the Bourbon

Stir in the bourbon and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Remove from the heat. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.

My Tips for the Best Kentucky Bread Pudding

Use Sister Schubert’s rolls. They're soft and buttery, and they make a wonderful bread pudding.

Don't skip the soaking time. Giving the bread time to absorb the custard helps keep the center soft.

Serve it warm. Bread pudding is especially good when the sauce is warm and freshly poured.

Make extra sauce. I always like having enough for everyone to add a little more.

Make It Your Own

• Add chopped pecans for a little crunch.

• Sprinkle in extra cinnamon for a warmer spice flavor.

• Add a small handful of raisins if your family likes them.

  
  

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftover bread pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Keep the bourbon sauce in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven. Gently reheat the sauce on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bread pudding earlier in the day and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Make sure the center is fully cooked, and allow extra baking time if it's cold from the refrigerator.

Do I have to use Sister Schubert’s rolls?

No. You can use another soft dinner roll or brioche, but Sister Schubert’s rolls are my favorite for this recipe.

Does the bourbon cook out?

Not completely. Some alcohol may remain in both the baked pudding and the sauce, especially because the sauce simmers briefly. This version is not alcohol-free.

Can I make extra bourbon sauce?

Absolutely! Double the sauce ingredients if you're serving a crowd or just want plenty left over.

What to Serve with Kentucky Bread Pudding

This bread pudding is pretty hard to beat on its own, especially with that warm bourbon sauce! But if you're planning a Kentucky-inspired brunch, holiday gathering, or Derby party, here are a few more favorites from The Schmidt Table to add to your menu.

• Kentucky Beer Cheese ... A little something savory to enjoy before dessert.

• Kentucky Hot Brown Dip ... Perfect for entertaining or a Derby Day gathering.

• Bourbon-Honey Butter Cornbread ... Another Kentucky favorite that everyone loves.

• Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars ... Because you can never have too many bourbon desserts!

• Kentucky Apple Cake ... Another cozy dessert that's perfect for fall.

  
  

You really can't go wrong with a table full of Kentucky favorites!

A Few Final Thoughts

This is one of those Kentucky desserts that always feels a little special.

You don't have to spend a day at Keeneland to enjoy a bowl of warm bread pudding ... although I'd never turn down the chance!

If you make this recipe, leave me a comment and let me know how it turned out.

Thanks for stopping by The Schmidt Table. I hope this recipe finds its way to your table soon.