If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that’s easy to make and full of flavor, this classic raisin bread pudding is the perfect choice. Made with simple ingredients like bread, eggs, raisins, and warm spices, it’s a dessert that both kids and adults will love. Whether you’re using up leftover bread or just craving something sweet, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.
What Is Raisin Bread Pudding?
Raisin bread pudding is a delicious dessert that’s both comforting and versatile. It’s made by soaking chunks of bread in a custard-like mixture, then baking it until golden and crispy on top. The raisins add a sweet burst of flavor, and the combination of cinnamon and nutmeg gives it that cozy, warm spice profile that makes it a perfect dessert for any time of year.
Unlike cakes or pies, bread pudding is an easy, no-fuss dessert that can be made in a single baking dish, which is why it’s so popular for busy home cooks. Plus, it’s a great way to use up stale bread!
Ingredients for Classic Raisin Bread Pudding
To make this delicious dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed bread (preferably day-old brioche or challah for best texture)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup raisins (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up)
These simple ingredients come together to create the perfect bread pudding—rich, creamy, and full of comforting flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Raisin Bread Pudding
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent the pudding from sticking.
- Prepare the Bread: Cut your bread into cubes. If you’re using day-old bread, it’s easier to handle. Add the bread cubes to the greased baking dish.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. This is the custard base that will soak into the bread.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Use a spoon or your hands to gently press the bread down so it soaks up the custard mixture. Let it sit for 10 minutes to ensure the bread absorbs all the liquid.
- Add the Raisins: Fold in the soaked raisins, distributing them evenly through the bread mixture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s ready.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm.
Tips for the Perfect Raisin Bread Pudding
- Choosing the Right Bread: The best bread for pudding is slightly stale. Brioche and challah are rich, buttery options that will give your pudding a soft, fluffy texture. However, you can also use regular white bread or whole wheat if that’s what you have on hand.
- Soaking the Bread: Allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 10 minutes. This ensures every piece of bread is thoroughly saturated and gives the pudding that soft, creamy interior.
- Toppings: To make your bread pudding even more indulgent, try serving it with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. These additions enhance the flavor and make it even more decadent.
Serving and Storing Your Raisin Bread Pudding
Once your raisin bread pudding is baked to perfection, it’s time to serve! Here are some tips:
- Serving: Serve the bread pudding warm for the best texture. If you like, top it with some whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Storing: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
- Variations: Want to mix it up? Try adding a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, or even a bit of chocolate for an extra indulgent twist.
Conclusion
This classic raisin bread pudding is the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s simple to make, full of rich flavors, and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re using up leftover bread or simply craving something sweet and comforting, this easy raisin bread pudding recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a try today, and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of this classic dessert!