Orange Panettone Bread Pudding

The holidays often bring together the best of desserts, and bread pudding is no exception. By using panettone—a traditional Italian sweet bread packed with dried fruits—you can elevate a classic bread pudding to a luxurious, festive centerpiece.

The orange zest adds a refreshing twist, balancing the rich custard base and making every bite irresistible. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will impress with its simple preparation and gourmet taste.

For more festive desserts, check out also this Italian Yule Log and these Orange Chocolate Biscotti.

🧾 Ingredients

• Panettone: This Italian bread is light, fluffy, and slightly sweet, often studded with raisins and candied orange peel. It’s the star of the dish, so choose a good-quality panettone for the best flavor.
• Eggs: Eggs create the creamy custard that soaks into the bread. Use fresh, large eggs for the best results.
• Milk: Whole milk is ideal for a rich custard, but you can also use 2% milk if preferred.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pudding without overpowering the natural flavors of the panettone.
• Orange Zest: Adds a bright, citrusy aroma that pairs perfectly with the panettone’s candied fruit.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
• Butter: Used to grease the baking dish and for a touch of richness.
• Powdered Sugar (for dusting, optional): Adds a finishing touch of sweetness and elegance to the pudding.

See the recipe card for quantities.

🍳 Substitutions

• Panettone Alternatives: If you can’t find panettone, substitute with brioche or challah bread. Add a handful of dried fruits and a touch of orange zest to mimic the flavors of panettone.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace milk and heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Sweeteners: Swap granulated sugar with brown sugar or maple syrup for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
• Citrus: Lemon zest and juice can replace orange for a different citrus profile.

🥣 Variations

• Chocolate Chip Orange Panettone Bread Pudding: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent twist.
• Almond-Orange Version: Sprinkle slivered almonds over the top before baking and replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty variation.
• Boozy Option: Add 2 tablespoons of orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier) to the custard for an adult-friendly treat.
• Cranberry-Orange Bread Pudding: Toss in a handful of dried cranberries for an extra festive touch.

📋 Instructions with Photos

Step 1. Add the melted butter on the bottoms and borders of the baking dish.

Step 2. Chop the Panettone into large chunks and add them to the dish.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

Fridge

Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before transferring to the fridge.

Freezer

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the portions in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the bread pudding with foil and heat for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1–2 minutes. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may dry out.

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