Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Place your bread cubes into a large bowl. If your bread is very fresh, you can toast the cubes in the oven for 5–10 minutes to dry them out.
2. Whisk the Custard
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugars, milk (and cream, if using), vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Once smooth, stir in the melted butter.
3. The Soak (The Most Important Step)
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Gently toss with a spoon to ensure every piece is coated. Let it sit for at least 15–20 minutes. This allows the bread to soak up the liquid to the core, preventing a dry pudding.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle any extra raisins or nuts on top. Bake for 40–50 minutes.
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How to tell it’s done: The top should be golden brown and slightly bouncy, and a knife inserted into the center should come out clean (not milky).
5. The Finishing Touch
Let the pudding cool for about 10 minutes. This allows the custard to set. For a professional touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple caramel sauce or maple syrup.
Pro-Tips for Success
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The “Bread Rule”: If you use a denser bread, let it soak longer (up to an hour in the fridge). If using a soft sandwich-style raisin bread, 15 minutes is plenty.
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Add “Boozy” Raisins: If you want an adult version, soak your raisins in 2 tablespoons of rum or bourbon for 30 minutes before adding them to the mix.
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Watch the Peaks: If the top of the bread starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
Texture Profile: What to Expect
The Verdict: Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding is the king of low-effort, high-reward baking. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover bread while creating a dessert that feels like it came straight from a cozy bed-and-breakfast.
How do you usually like to serve your bread pudding—warm with cream, or perhaps with a side of fresh fruit?
