Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s comforting, easy to make, and perfect for using up leftover bread, this Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding is your go-to recipe. Rich and warmly spiced, this pudding is a crowd-pleaser, especially as the weather cools down.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

The foundation of this recipe is the cinnamon raisin bread, which brings built-in flavor and sweetness. Using whole milk and heavy cream creates a rich and luscious custard base. Granulated sugar sweetens the dish just enough without being overpowering. The eggs help bind everything together, while vanilla extract enhances the flavors with a subtle sweetness. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg add depth and warmth, making this dish feel like a hug in a bowl. A pinch of salt balances out the sweetness, and melted butter gives a lovely, golden finish. Raisins add little bursts of chewy sweetness, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the chopped walnuts offer a nice crunch.

Tips & Tricks

  • For best results, use day-old bread; it absorbs the custard better.
  • If your bread is too fresh, lightly toast the cubes in the oven first.
  • Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of your bread and personal preference.

Serving Suggestions

This bread pudding pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of caramel or maple syrup adds a decadent touch. For a special breakfast treat, serve it with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a sweet and savory experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding a few hours ahead and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to two months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
What if I don’t have cinnamon raisin bread?
You can use regular bread and add extra cinnamon and raisins to the custard mixture.

Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This helps the pudding release easily after baking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. You want to mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

Next, add your cubed cinnamon raisin bread into the mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly soaked by gently pressing down on the bread cubes. Let it soak for about 10 minutes to absorb all those lovely flavors.

Once soaked, pour the bread mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the raisins across the top, and if you’re using them, the walnuts too. Gently press them into the bread mixture to ensure they’re nestled in nicely.

Drizzle the melted butter all over the surface of the bread pudding. This will help it bake to a beautiful golden brown. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’re looking for a top that’s golden and a custard that’s set (a slight jiggle is okay).

Let it cool for a few minutes before diving in. It’s best served warm and fresh from the oven.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for using day-old bread that might otherwise go to waste.
  • A delightful mix of textures with creamy custard and chewy raisins.
  • Infused with warming spices, making it a cozy treat for fall or winter.
  • Simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.

Ingredients

4 cups cubed day-old cinnamon raisin bread
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the cubed cinnamon raisin bread into the mixture, ensuring all pieces are saturated. Let it soak for 10 minutes.
4. Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, evenly spreading it out.
5. Sprinkle the raisins and optional walnuts over the top, gently pressing them into the mixture.
6. Drizzle the melted butter over the entire surface.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
8. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!