What type of bread works best?

Challah or brioche provide a rich, tender texture ideal for soaking and baking in custard.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, they can be refrigerated for up to one day. Add toppings just before serving for best texture.

Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form to maintain structure on the bites.

Substitute dairy milk and cream with plant-based alternatives but expect slight texture changes.

Cinnamon in the custard and fresh strawberries brighten the bites, with optional orange zest or liqueur for extra aroma.

Festive, bite-sized bread pudding treats topped with whipped cream and strawberries to resemble Santa hats perfect for holiday gatherings.

I have always enjoyed serving these at Christmas parties because they add a playful and delicious touch to the dessert table

Bread Pudding: 6 cups (about 300 g) challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
Bread Pudding: 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
Bread Pudding: 3/4 cup (180 ml) heavy cream
Bread Pudding: 3 large eggs
Bread Pudding: 2/3 cup (135 g) granulated sugar
Bread Pudding: 1 tsp vanilla extract
Bread Pudding: 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Bread Pudding: 1/4 tsp salt
Bread Pudding: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Topping: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
Topping: 3 tbsp powdered sugar
Topping: 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping: 24 small strawberries, hulled
Topping: 2 tbsp shredded coconut (optional, for fur trim)

Step 1:: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin pan (24 wells).
Step 2:: In a large bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 3:: Add bread cubes to the custard mixture and toss gently to coat. Let soak for 10 minutes.
Step 4:: Spoon the soaked bread mixture evenly into the prepared mini muffin pan, pressing down gently. Drizzle melted butter over the tops.
Step 5:: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and set. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer bites to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6:: While bites cool, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 7:: Pipe or dollop a swirl of whipped cream onto each bread pudding bite.
Step 8:: Place a strawberry, tip up, on each to resemble a Santa hat. Pipe a small dot of whipped cream on the tip of each strawberry. Sprinkle shredded coconut around the base for a fur effect if desired.
Step 9:: Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

This recipe always brings smiles when I see family members gathering around to enjoy the festive bites.

Mini muffin pan Mixing bowls Whisk Electric mixer (for whipped cream) Piping bag or spoon

Contains: Eggs, Milk, Wheat (gluten) Strawberries may cause allergies in sensitive individuals. Double-check bread and cream labels if unsure.

Calories: 110 Total Fat: 6 g Carbohydrates: 13 g Protein: 2 g

Enjoy these festive bread pudding bites as a delightful holiday treat that’s sure to impress your guests

→ What type of bread works best?: Challah or brioche provide a rich, tender texture ideal for soaking and baking in custard.
→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?: Yes, they can be refrigerated for up to one day. Add toppings just before serving for best texture.
→ How is the whipped cream stabilized?: Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form to maintain structure on the bites.
→ Is there a dairy-free alternative?: Substitute dairy milk and cream with plant-based alternatives but expect slight texture changes.
→ What adds the flavor dimension?: Cinnamon in the custard and fresh strawberries brighten the bites, with optional orange zest or liqueur for extra aroma.