Description
This Microwave Bread Pudding in a Mug is the ultimate quick comfort dessert — warm, soft, custardy, and ready in under 5 minutes. Made with simple pantry staples and cooked entirely in the microwave, this easy single-serve dessert delivers all the cozy flavor of traditional bread pudding without the hassle of baking. Perfect for busy weeknights, late-night cravings, or an easy homemade treat anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Recipe
- 1 to 1½ cups bread cubes (about 2 slices bread)
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ to ½ cup milk
- 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar or brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Optional Add-Ins
- Chocolate chips
- Raisins
- Diced apples
- Blueberries
- Peanut butter
- Chopped nuts
- Caramel sauce
- Shredded coconut
Instructions
- Grease a large microwave-safe mug (10–12 oz or larger) with melted butter or nonstick spray.
- Cut the bread into small cubes and place them into the mug until about three-quarters full.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Stir in any optional add-ins such as chocolate chips, raisins, apples, or nuts.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
- Use a fork to gently press the bread into the liquid so it absorbs the custard evenly. Let it sit for 30–60 seconds.
- Microwave on high power for 1 minute.
- Check the center and continue cooking in 30-second intervals until the pudding is set but still slightly soft in the middle, about 1½ to 3 minutes total.
- Let the bread pudding rest for 1 minute before serving.
- Top with powdered sugar, whipped cream, maple syrup, caramel sauce, or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
- Slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the custard more evenly.
- Brioche, challah, or cinnamon raisin bread create the richest flavor and texture.
- Avoid overcooking to keep the pudding soft and custardy.
- Microwave wattages vary, so begin checking at 1 minute.
- For extra richness, replace part of the milk with heavy cream.
- Add fresh berries or banana slices for a fruity variation.
- This recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 4 hours before microwaving.
- Best enjoyed warm immediately after cooking.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: Under 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380–480 kcal
- Sugar: 22–30g
- Fat: 14–20g
- Carbohydrates: 48–58g
- Fiber: 2–4g
- Protein: 10–13g
Keywords: Microwave Bread Pudding in a Mug