Delicious Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding Delight

Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Sophie

There s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a fresh-baked dessert to welcome you home, especially after a long day. As the flavors of sweet marmalade and rich dark chocolate meld together, they create an inviting aroma that fills my kitchen and beckons me to indulge. Inspired by a classic French dish, this Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding takes a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, transforming day-old croissants into a decadent treat that s both elegant and easy to prepare.

When I first whipped up this pudding, I was amazed at how effortlessly it came together. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy evening with just a spoonful for company, it turns ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. With the gentle fragrance of orange liqueur and the creaminess of the custard, it s a dessert that surprises every time. So, if you re looking to bring a touch of refined comfort to your table, let s dive right into this scrumptious recipe that s sure to become a new favorite!

Why is Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding a Must-Make?

Irresistible warmth: This pudding envelops you with mouthwatering flavors of orange marmalade and chocolate, making every bite a cozy delight.
Effortless elegance: Transform stale croissants into a decadent dessert that looks and tastes gourmet without requiring complex skills.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, it s a dish that impresses guests while being simple enough for weeknight indulgence.
Versatile delights: Feel free to customize with fillings or toppings to suit your taste, ensuring no two puddings are ever the same!
Quick preparation: With just 30 minutes of baking after minimal prep, you ll have a fabulous dessert ready in no time, perfect for those who crave comfort without the wait.

Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding Ingredients

For the Custard

• 400 ml double cream adds a luxuriously rich texture to the pudding.
• 200 ml milk helps balance the creaminess while keeping it light.
• 4 medium free-range egg yolks provides structure and creaminess to the custard.
• 2-3 tbsp caster sugar sweetens the pudding to perfection; adjust to taste.
• 50 ml Grand Marnier imparts a delightful orange flavor that complements the marmalade.

For the Pudding

• 8 croissants use day-old ones for an ideal texture; their buttery quality is key.
• 8 tbsp marmalade spread this zesty delight for a kick of citrus goodness.
• 100 g dark chocolate finely chopped to enhance the pudding s richness and indulgence.

This Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding is a beautiful way to transform everyday ingredients into something truly special. Enjoy the flavors!

How to Make Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding

1. Heat the cream and milk in a pan over medium heat until it s almost boiling. Remove it from the heat to let the flavors meld beautifully.

2. Beat together the egg yolks and sugar in a mixing bowl until combined. Slowly pour the heated cream mixture over the egg blend, stirring continuously. Add the Grand Marnier and set aside for the custard to develop its flavors.

3. Butter a 1.5-litre ovenproof dish generously. Spread each croissant half with the zesty marmalade, then layer them in the dish, sprinkling chopped dark chocolate generously between the croissant layers.

4. Pour the custard mixture lovingly over the croissant layers, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it soak for 15 minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors.

5. Preheat your oven to 180 °C/fan160 °C/gas 4. Bake the pudding for 25-30 minutes, or until it s softly set and has a gorgeous golden top that s begging to be served.

Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Helpful Tricks for Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding

• Choose Fresh Croissants: Use day-old croissants for optimal absorption of the custard. Fresh ones may not soak up enough moisture to achieve the perfect texture.

• Perfect Soaking Time: Allow the croissants to soak for at least 15 minutes before baking. This ensures that they absorb the custard fully, enhancing flavor and creaminess.

• Watch the Baking Temperature: Keep a close eye on the pudding while it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture; aim for a softly set, golden top.

• Customize Flavor: Feel free to swap the Grand Marnier for another liqueur or even add spices like cinnamon for a unique twist. Just remember that it complements the croissant and marmalade bread-and-butter pudding beautifully.

• Dark Chocolate Quality Matters: Select good-quality dark chocolate for better flavor. A higher cocoa content will add depth to your pudding, making it even more indulgent.

What to Serve with Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding?

There s nothing quite like a rich, warm dessert to bring a sparkling finish to your meal, inviting everyone to gather around with joy.

• Fresh Berries: The tartness of mixed berries balances the sweetness of the pudding, adding a vibrant pop of color and flavor to each bite.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully atop the warm pudding, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.

• Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream complements the dense pudding, enhancing the indulgence of each spoonful without overpowering it.

• Coffee or Espresso: A rich espresso or smooth coffee offers a robust counterpoint to the sweetness, making it the perfect pairing for a post-dinner treat.

• Dark Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some extra chocolate sauce on top to add an extra layer of decadent richness that chocolate lovers will adore.

• Citrus Sorbet: A refreshing citrus sorbet cuts through the pudding s richness, cleansing the palate and providing a refreshing twist.

• Hazelnut Liqueur: Serve with a shot of hazelnut liqueur as a digestif for a wonderful nutty flavor that complements the pudding beautifully.

• Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti brings a delightful texture contrast and nutty flavor that pairs well with the soft pudding.

• Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea not only refreshes the palate but also adds a fragrant note that complements the dessert s flavors beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the custard mixture (cream, milk, egg yolks, sugar, and Grand Marnier) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can assemble the croissant layers in the ovenproof dish and allow them to soak in the custard for about 15 minutes before baking. When ready to enjoy, simply preheat your oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. This way, you ll have a warm, indulgent dessert with minimal effort, ready to impress your family after a long day!

Storage Tips for Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding

Room Temperature: Enjoy your pudding fresh out of the oven for the best taste; if left uncovered, it can sit for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through for a comforting dessert.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 160 °C (320 °F) until warmed through, maintaining its fluffy texture and delicious flavor for your next indulgent treat!

Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!

• Nutty Delight: Add 100 g of chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for a satisfying crunch in every bite. Nuts bring a lovely texture to the pudding and pair well with the creamy custard.

• Fruit Infusion: Incorporate 150 g of fresh berries or sliced bananas in between the croissant layers for a fruity burst. The natural sweetness of the fruit melds beautifully with the rich chocolate and marmalade, making each forkful irresistibly delicious.

• Spiced Twist: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg with the custard for a warm, spiced flavor. The cozy aroma of spices enhances the pudding and adds an unexpected layer of comfort.

• Caramel Surprise: Drizzle layers of caramel sauce between the croissants for an extra touch of sweetness. Rich and gooey, caramel elevates the dish, creating an indulgent experience you won t forget.

• Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of grated orange or lemon zest to the custard for an invigorating citrus flavor. This brightens the dessert, making it taste even fresher and more vibrant.

• Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute coconut cream and almond milk for their dairy counterparts for a dairy-free version. The coconut adds a delightful tropical twist that harmonizes beautifully with the orange flavor of the marmalade.

• Chocolate Lovers: Replace dark chocolate with white or milk chocolate for an alternative sweetness. Each variety changes the flavor profile, catering to all those chocolate craving moments.

• Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the custard for a spicy kick. This unexpected heat pairs well with the sweetness and zest brings excitement to every bite, perfect for adventurous palates!

Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best croissants for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding, opt for day-old croissants. These are slightly drier and perfect for soaking up the custard mixture, ensuring that you achieve that delightful, creamy texture. Fresh croissants can be a bit too soft and may not absorb as much liquid, leading to a less successful pudding.

What is the best way to store leftover pudding?
Very! If you find yourself with leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to enjoy it again, just warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through. This will bring back that lovely comfort of freshly baked pudding!

Can I freeze Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you re ready to indulge, just thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 160 °C (320 °F) until heated through for the best texture!

What should I do if my pudding seems rubbery after baking?
Oh no! If your pudding turns out rubbery, it could be due to overbaking. Always keep an eye on it toward the end of the baking time. Aim for a softly set center that jiggles slightly when shaken. If you face this issue, consider reducing the baking time for your next batch or lowering the oven temperature slightly to ensure it stays moist.

Can I make this pudding without alcohol?
Of course! If you d prefer to skip the Grand Marnier, you can substitute it with orange juice or even a splash of vanilla extract for lovely flavor notes. This way, everyone can enjoy the delightful taste of the Croissant and Marmalade Bread-and-Butter Pudding without any worries!

Is this pudding suitable for people with allergies?
Definitely! However, note that this recipe contains dairy and eggs. If you have dairy allergies, you could try using non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream and plant-based milk, and a suitable egg replacer for the custard. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might vary, but it can still be delicious!