There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cinnamon raisin bread pudding on a chilly evening. This Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding is not only easy to whip up but also fills your home with a sweet, inviting aroma that makes you feel cozy inside. Whether you’re looking for a delightful dessert or a special breakfast treat, this recipe hits the spot. Plus, it’s a great way to use up stale bread, transforming it into a warm, delicious treat that’s perfect for family gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Perfect for beginners and busy nights, ready in under an hour.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, cinnamon flavor.
Budget-Friendly: Use leftover bread, and common ingredients keep costs low.
Comforting and Satisfying: Enjoy the warm, gooey texture that brings back fond memories.

What makes this recipe stand out is the perfect blend of spices and the nostalgic taste that can remind you of home. Each bite offers warmth and joy—perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients

For the bread pudding:

5 cups of stale cinnamon raisin bread, cubed
2 cups of whole milk
1 cup of heavy cream
4 large eggs
¾ cup of granulated sugar
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

For the topping:

½ cup of walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, softened

How to Make Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and warm for the pudding.
Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl. The stale bread absorbs the liquid better, making the pudding rich and flavorful.
Mix the Eggs and Milk: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. This step is key for a smooth custard.
Combine: Pour the egg mixture over the cubed bread. Gently fold the bread into the liquid until it’s fully coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the flavors.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Scrape the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
Add Topping: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top for added crunch, if desired.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and the middle is set. It should be slightly wobbly but not liquidy.
Cool and Serve: Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time helps the pudding set up a bit more.

How to Serve Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

Warm and Topped: Serve the bread pudding warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Garnish: Dust a bit of powdered sugar or drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for a special touch.
Accompany with Coffee: For brunch, pair it with freshly brewed coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy experience.

How to Store Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

To store leftover bread pudding, let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Tips to Make Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

Use Dry Bread: Stale bread works best, as it soaks up the custard nicely. If your bread is fresh, leave it out to dry for a few hours.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the bread into the custard to keep the texture nice and fluffy.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some orange zest for a different twist.

Variation

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for a delicious version that everyone can enjoy!
Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative that still tastes great.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?

Yes, but it’s best to let fresh bread sit out for a few hours to dry out, helping it absorb more of the custard.

How do I know when the bread pudding is done?

It should have a slightly golden top and a set middle. You can insert a knife in the center; it should come out mostly clean.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze bread pudding! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding is a heartwarming dessert full of flavor, comfort, and nostalgia. It’s a fantastic way to gather friends and family around the table, creating lasting memories. If you try this recipe, please leave us a comment and a star rating to let us know how it turned out for you! And don’t forget to share your delicious creation on Pinterest or Facebook. What twist did you try? Let us know below!