Santa Hat Bread Pudding

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

I first served this at a holiday party and everyone loved the bite-sized Santa hat presentation.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

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.

Pin

My family gathered around the table enjoying these festive bites and immediately asked for the recipe.

Notes

For extra flavor, add orange zest or a splash of liqueur to the custard.

Required Tools

Mini muffin pan, mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer (for whipped cream), piping bag or spoon

Allergen Information

Contains: Eggs, Milk, Wheat (gluten). Strawberries may cause allergies in sensitive individuals.

Pin

These Santa Hat Bread Pudding Bites are a delightful holiday treat that’s both fun to make and enjoy.

Recipe Q&A

→ What bread works best for these bites?

Challah or brioche works best, providing a rich, soft texture that soaks up custard beautifully.

→ Can I prepare the bites in advance?

Yes, they can be refrigerated for up to one day; serve chilled or reheat gently.

→ What can I use instead of strawberries?

Fresh raspberries or sliced cherries can be used for a similar festive look and flavor.

→ Is shredded coconut necessary for the topping?

No, the coconut is optional and adds a snowy trim effect but can be omitted without affecting taste.

→ How do I achieve stiff peaks for the whipped cream?

Chill the cream and beat with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until firm peaks form and cream holds shape.