What makes a warm slice of cinnamon raisin bread pudding so irresistibly comforting? This easy homemade dessert is made with tender bread, plump raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for a quick weeknight treat. Save this idea for a cozy night in.

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Introduction

Imagine a warm, comforting dessert that combines the sweetness of raisins, the depth of cinnamon, and the richness of bread, all in one delightful package. This cinnamon raisin bread pudding is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a testament to the magic of transforming everyday ingredients into something truly special. With its ease of preparation, balanced flavors, and impressive presentation, this dessert is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers looking to impress their family and friends. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of cinnamon, raisins, and bread provides a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, while using commonly found ingredients that are easily accessible in most kitchens.
• Ease of preparation: The steps involved in making this bread pudding are straightforward and simple, requiring minimal cooking skills and effort.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is a beautifully presented dessert that is sure to impress, whether served at a family gathering or a dinner party.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this cinnamon raisin bread pudding include stale bread, raisins, cinnamon, eggs, milk, and sugar. The stale bread is essential as it absorbs the liquid ingredients better than fresh bread, while the raisins add natural sweetness and chewiness. Cinnamon provides a warm, comforting flavor that complements the sweetness of the raisins perfectly. For those looking for substitutions, almond milk can be used instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option, and nutmeg can be added for an extra layer of spice. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to experiment with different types of bread and spices to create unique flavor combinations.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Then, chop the stale bread into small cubes and spread it out on a baking sheet. Toast the bread in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned and crispy. This step helps to enhance the texture of the bread pudding.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Add the toasted bread cubes to the mixture and stir until the bread is evenly coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid ingredients.
3. Step 3: Fold in the raisins and any other desired spices or nuts. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and let it sit for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Step 4: Bake the bread pudding in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and set. Remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it warm, topped with a caramel sauce or whipped cream for an extra-special treat.

Handy Tips

• Use a variety of breads: Combining different types of bread, such as white, whole wheat, and brioche, can add depth and complexity to the bread pudding.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together to avoid creating a dense bread pudding.
• Let it rest: Allowing the bread mixture to sit for a while before baking helps the bread to absorb the flavors and liquids, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dessert.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the bread pudding is 350°F (180°C), and it should be baked for about 35-40 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and set. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread pudding; if it comes out clean, it’s ready. If not, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again. It’s also important to keep an eye on the bread pudding while it’s baking, as the top can quickly go from perfectly golden to burnt.

Crunch Factor

The texture of the bread pudding should be tender and moist, with a crispy top. To achieve this, make sure not to overmix the bread mixture, and don’t overbake it. The toasted bread cubes and the caramelized sugar on top should provide a nice crunch, while the inside remains soft and fluffy. If you prefer a crunchier top, you can broil the bread pudding for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use leftover bread: This recipe is a great way to use up stale bread that would otherwise go to waste.
• Customize the flavors: Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to create unique flavor combinations.
• Make ahead: The bread pudding can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen until ready to bake, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: The bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and reheat it in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
• Freeze: The bread pudding can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when ready to serve.
• Reheat: To reheat the bread pudding, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cinnamon raisin bread pudding makes a wonderful gift for friends and family, especially during the holiday season. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or jar, wrapped in a ribbon or twine. You could also include a batch of homemade caramel sauce or whipped cream for an extra-special touch. For a more rustic presentation, wrap the bread pudding in parchment paper or a paper bag and tie it with twine. Whatever packaging you choose, this bread pudding is sure to be a hit with anyone who receives it.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the bread mixture for a unique twist on the traditional cinnamon flavor.
• Creative toppings: Top the bread pudding with a variety of ingredients, such as caramel sauce, whipped cream, or chopped nuts, to add texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity twist, or use different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy option.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the bread pudding is too dry, try adding a little more milk or eggs to the mixture. If it’s too wet, try adding a little more bread or baking it for a few more minutes.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have any raisins, try using dried cranberries or cherries instead. If you don’t have any cinnamon, try using nutmeg or cardamom.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the bread pudding is overcooked, it will be dry and crispy. If it’s undercooked, it will be wet and soggy. Check the bread pudding frequently while it’s baking to ensure it’s cooked to perfection.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the bread pudding can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when ready to serve.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains gluten due to the bread. However, you can try using gluten-free bread to make a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch of bread pudding. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

This cinnamon raisin bread pudding is a delicious and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its ease of preparation, balanced flavors, and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make it your own, and consider sharing it with friends and family as a thoughtful gift. Whatever you choose, this bread pudding is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of this cinnamon raisin bread pudding!