Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

There’s just something about cinnamon raisin bread pudding that tugs at my heartstrings. Maybe it’s the warm, cozy smells wafting through the kitchen or the sweet, comforting taste that reminds me of lazy Sunday mornings with family. Trust me, once you dive into making this delightful dessert, you’ll be hooked!

What Is Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding?

Cinnamon raisin bread pudding is like a warm hug in dessert form. It’s a classic dish where cubed cinnamon raisin bread is soaked in a creamy custard made from milk, eggs, and sugar, then baked until golden perfection. Whether you serve it as a sweet brunch item or a comforting dessert, it’s incredibly versatile and oh-so-delicious.

Ingredients Overview for Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

To whip up this scrumptious treat, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

Cinnamon Raisin Bread: The star of the show! You can use store-bought or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Whole Milk (or almond/oat milk): This adds creaminess to the custard. Plant-based milk works great too!
Eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option): They help bind everything together; if you prefer vegan, flax eggs are a fantastic alternative.
Brown Sugar: Adds a rich sweetness to the dish and complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Cinnamon: More of that warm, spiced goodness. You can never have too much!
Vanilla Extract: This elevates the flavors, making everything taste just a bit more special.
Raisins: They add pops of sweetness and chewiness throughout.

How To Make Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

Let’s get down to business with these straightforward steps:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C): Get that oven ready, so we can dive in shortly!
Cut the cinnamon raisin bread into bite-sized cubes: I like to make them about an inch big; it helps them soak up all that lovely custard.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until combined: This is where the magic happens! Make sure it’s well-mixed, and you’re in business.
Gently fold in the bread cubes and raisins into the custard mixture. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes: This step allows the bread to soak up all that deliciousness; just don’t rush it, okay?
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish: A little butter or cooking spray works wonders here to prevent sticking.
Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set: Keep an eye on it; your kitchen will smell amazing!
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, optionally with whipped cream or ice cream: Trust me, a scoop of ice cream on top is heavenly.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, there are endless possibilities. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can transform this dish instantly. You could even top it with fresh fruits like berries or bananas for a zesty contrast. Personally, I love it with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top. Yum!

Tips For The Perfect Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

Choose stale bread: Day-old bread works best since it absorbs the custard without turning mushy.
Experiment with spices: Need a twist? Add nutmeg or allspice to your custard mixture for an added layer of flavor.
Let it rest: The longer the bread sits in the custard, the more flavor it absorbs.
Monitor baking time: Ovens can vary, so check for a golden brown top and a set center.

Q&A Section

1. Can I use other types of bread?
Absolutely! While cinnamon raisin bread is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with challah or even brioche for a richer taste.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Sure thing! You can prepare the mixture the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

3. What if I’m allergic to eggs?
Using flax eggs is a game changer. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg and let it sit until it gels.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or oven before serving.

Why You’ll Love It

You will adore this cinnamon raisin bread pudding for its warm, comforting taste and texture. It’s the ultimate blend of sweetness, spice, and the nostalgic flavors of home. Plus, it’s such a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re having friends over or just indulging yourself, it’s the perfect dessert to share (or keep to yourself, I won’t judge!).

Behind The Scenes

When I first started to make this recipe, I underestimated how much the bread would absorb the custard. The first batch turned out a bit soggy, but I learned quickly! Now, I make sure to let that bread soak up all the goodness without going overboard. I’ve also found that adjusting the amount of cinnamon can give the dessert an extra punch or a more subtle flavor vibe. It’s been a fun journey!

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