4-Ingredient Bourbon Caramel Bread Squares

Think of these bourbon caramel bread squares as the shortcut cousin to classic bread pudding. With just four core ingredients, they deliver all the cozy, caramel-soaked comfort of the traditional dish—streamlined into sturdy, sliceable bars. Rooted in the frugal European tradition of transforming stale bread into something luxurious, this version leans into Midwestern bar-cookie sensibility: simple, practical, and perfect for sharing.

Day-old bread gets dressed up with a glossy bourbon caramel, creating a dessert that’s pantry-friendly yet sophisticated. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, bringing a treat to game night, or simply looking to use up leftover bread, these squares are forgiving, flavorful, and sure to impress.

Serve them on their own, or pair with vanilla ice cream, lightly sweetened whipped cream, or fresh fruit for balance. They’re equally at home on a brunch table next to eggs or salad, and because they cut neatly into squares, they travel beautifully for potlucks.

4-Ingredient Bourbon Caramel Bread Squares

Ingredients

Directions

1. Prep the Pan & Bread
   • Grease a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan.
   • Spread bread cubes evenly, pressing gently into a flat layer.
   • If bread is very soft, let it dry on a sheet pan for 20–30 minutes.
2. Make the Caramel Base
   • In a medium saucepan, combine cream and 1 cup (200 g) sugar.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
   • Continue cooking 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened and light beige in color.
3. Add the Bourbon
   • Remove from heat and stir in bourbon carefully (it may bubble).
   • Optional: add a pinch of salt to sharpen flavor.
4. Soak the Bread
   • Pour warm caramel evenly over bread cubes.
   • Press lightly with a spoon or spatula to help absorption.
   • Let sit 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
5. Caramelized Top
   • Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar evenly over the surface.
6. Bake
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until golden, crisp in spots, and bubbling at the edges.
   • The center should feel set when pressed lightly.
7. Cool & Slice
   • Cool on a rack for 20–30 minutes.
   • Cut into 12 squares (or smaller pieces for buffets).
   • Serve warm or at room temperature.

✨ Tip: For extra indulgence, drizzle with salted caramel or serve with fresh berries for contrast.