This Easiest-ever Citrus Bread Pudding brings a zesty twist to a classic comfort dessert. Packed with citrusy brightness and rich, creamy custard, it's a delightful way to use up leftover bread. Perfect for cozy gatherings or just a sweet treat to brighten your day.
The base of this pudding is the day-old bread, which acts like a sponge to soak up the custard, creating a luscious texture. The heavy cream and whole milk add richness and smoothness to the custard, while the granulated sugar sweetens the mix. Eggs help set the custard, giving structure to the pudding. A splash of vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic note. The stars of the show, orange zest and lemon zest, infuse the dish with vibrant citrusy notes. Raisins introduce a chewy, sweet contrast, and the unsalted butter brushed on top ensures a golden, crispy finish. Lastly, a pinch of salt balances the sweetness, enhancing all the flavors.
Serve your citrus bread pudding warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries can add a nice touch of color and flavor. Pair it with a cup of Earl Grey tea to complement the citrus notes.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is ready to bake your pudding evenly. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish – this helps prevent sticking and makes cleaning up a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely. This will be the foundation of your custard, so take a moment to ensure it's well-mixed.
Add the eggs, vanilla extract, orange zest, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt to the milk mixture. Whisk again until everything is well combined. The zest will release its citrus oils, infusing the custard with a refreshing aroma.
Spread the bread cubes evenly in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the raisins over the bread, distributing them as evenly as you can.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Use a gentle hand to press down on the bread, helping it absorb the liquid. This step ensures every piece of bread is soaked with the delicious custard.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the pudding. This will create a beautifully golden and slightly crisp top layer once baked.
Let the mixture stand for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the bread to soak up more of the custard, ensuring a moist and flavorful pudding.
Slide the dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving warm.