Easy Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Imagine transforming leftover bread into a warm, ultra-rich Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly morning. This classic dessert, with its irresistible blend of cinnamon-spiced bread cubes and plump raisins, is perfect for turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re craving a comforting breakfast or an easy homemade treat, this Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding recipe from lalytarecipes.com stands out for its ultra-rich texture, achieved through the secret use of high-quality bread like brioche or challah. With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll create a foolproof dish that’s not only delicious but also a staple in any home cook’s repertoire. Dive in and discover why this recipe is the ultimate go-to for Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding enthusiasts everywhere.

The moment this Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding emerges from the oven, your kitchen fills with the intoxicating aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet raisins, evoking memories of family gatherings and holiday feasts. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of textures: the bread cubes turn soft and custard-like on the inside, while the edges crisp up for a delightful contrast. The ultra-rich creaminess comes from the well-blended egg and milk mixture, creating a velvety base that’s infused with the earthy spice of cinnamon and the juicy burst of raisins. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience that tantalizes your senses and leaves you craving more of this homemade bread pudding’s comforting goodness.

As the go-to resource for home cooks, lalytarecipes.com brings you this ultra-rich Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding recipe, crafted by Chef Lalyta and tested to perfection for consistent results. What sets this version apart is the Chef’s Secret—a simple yet transformative technique that ensures maximum flavor absorption and an unbeatable creamy texture. In this post, you’ll learn expert tips, common mistakes to avoid, and innovative ways to customize and serve this bread pudding, making it the single best guide on the internet for easy bread pudding recipes. Get ready to boost your confidence in the kitchen and impress your loved ones with every slice.

Why This Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding Recipe is a Game-Changer

The Chef’s Secret: The unique angle of this ultra-rich Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding lies in using premium bread like brioche or challah, which infuses the dish with a luxurious, buttery depth that elevates it beyond standard bread pudding recipes. This choice allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture more effectively, resulting in a velvety, custard-like interior that’s simply irresistible. By letting the mixture sit for the full 10 minutes as specified, you ensure even flavor distribution, making every bite burst with cinnamon and raisins in a way that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

Unbeatable Texture: The science behind the texture comes from the combination of eggs and milk, which create a custard base that sets perfectly in the oven. The high protein in eggs helps bind the mixture, while the fat from whole milk contributes to that ultra-rich creaminess. When baked at 350°F, the bread cubes achieve a golden, slightly crispy exterior while remaining tender inside, thanks to the moisture-retaining properties of the raisins and cinnamon.

Foolproof for a Reason: This recipe has been tested multiple times in our kitchen to guarantee success, even for beginners. With straightforward steps and precise measurements, you’ll avoid common pitfalls like soggy bread or uneven baking, making it a reliable choice for homemade bread pudding every time.

Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference

6 cups of cubed day-old bread: This is the foundation of your Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding, providing the structure and base for all the flavors to shine. Using day-old bread ensures it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy, but opting for high-quality varieties like brioche or challah adds an ultra-rich, buttery texture that’s unmatched. Quality matters here because fresh, artisanal bread enhances the overall mouthfeel and flavor profile. If you don’t have day-old bread, substitute with slightly stale French bread, but avoid overly dense loaves to prevent a heavy pudding.

1 cup raisins: These plump, sweet gems add bursts of moisture and natural sweetness to your Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding, balancing the spices perfectly. Raisins contribute a chewy contrast that elevates the dish, and using organic, sun-dried varieties ensures a deeper, more authentic flavor. Quality is key as lower-grade raisins can be overly dry or artificial-tasting. For a substitution, try dried cranberries for a tart twist or chopped dates for extra caramel notes, but adjust quantities to maintain the recipe’s balance.

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: As the star spice in this Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding, cinnamon infuses warmth and aroma, creating that signature cozy appeal. Freshly ground cinnamon offers a more potent, aromatic punch compared to pre-ground versions, enhancing the ultra-rich profile. Its role is to complement the bread and raisins without overwhelming, so use high-quality, pure cinnamon for the best results. If you’re out, substitute with a blend of nutmeg and allspice, but start with half the amount to avoid altering the classic taste.

4 large eggs: Eggs act as the binding agent in your Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding, creating the creamy custard that holds everything together. Fresh, free-range eggs provide better emulsification and a richer flavor, contributing to the ultra-rich texture. They help set the pudding during baking, so quality ensures a smooth, non-grainy finish. For substitutions, use flax eggs for a vegan option, but note this may slightly change the firmness; whisk thoroughly to mimic the original consistency.

2 cups milk: This liquid base is essential for the custard’s creaminess in Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding, allowing the bread to soak up flavors effectively. Whole milk is ideal for its fat content, which supports the ultra-rich mouthfeel, but opting for fresh, high-quality milk makes a noticeable difference in taste. It blends with eggs to form a silky texture. Substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version, ensuring it’s unsweetened to preserve the recipe’s balance.

1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sugar sweetens the deal in your Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding, enhancing the natural flavors of cinnamon and raisins while aiding in browning. Using pure cane sugar ensures even dissolution and a subtle caramel note, contributing to the ultra-rich appeal. It’s crucial for the pudding’s moisture and gloss. For a healthier swap, use coconut sugar, but reduce the amount slightly as it’s sweeter, maintaining the dessert’s overall harmony.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic depth to your Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding, rounding out the spices and enhancing the ultra-rich profile. Pure vanilla, not imitation, makes all the difference by providing authentic flavor without artificial aftertaste. It ties the ingredients together for a moreish finish. Substitute with vanilla bean paste for an intensified taste, or almond extract for a nutty variation, using the same quantity.

1/4 teaspoon salt: This humble ingredient balances the sweetness in Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding, making the flavors pop and preventing the dish from tasting flat. Using fine sea salt ensures even distribution and enhances the ultra-rich cinnamon notes. It’s the unsung hero that elevates the overall taste. If needed, substitute with kosher salt, but measure precisely to avoid over-salting, which could dull the dessert’s appeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure nothing sticks. This step sets the stage for even baking and easy serving. Combine the bread cubes, raisins, and cinnamon in a large bowl, tossing them gently with your hands or a spoon to mix evenly and distribute the flavors throughout.

Pro Tip: Always use a high-quality baking dish for uniform heat distribution, which helps achieve that perfect golden crust without burning the edges.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This creates the creamy custard base that will soak into the bread, forming the ultra-rich texture of your Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t over-whisk the eggs, as this can incorporate too much air and lead to a spongy texture; whisk just until combined to keep the pudding dense and creamy.

Step 3: Combine and Soak the Mixtures

Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture in the large bowl and stir gently with a spatula to coat all the bread cubes evenly. Let the combined mixture sit for the full 10 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the liquids thoroughly for maximum flavor infusion.

Pro Tip: For an even richer result, cover the bowl and let it rest in the fridge for an extra 5 minutes if time allows, enhancing the ultra-rich absorption without making the bread too soggy.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

After soaking, transfer the mixture to your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spoon to ensure uniform baking and a consistent texture throughout your Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Avoid packing the mixture too tightly, as this can prevent even cooking; leave some space for the pudding to expand and achieve that light, airy yet creamy consistency.

Step 5: Bake the Pudding

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set when gently pressed. This step transforms the soaked bread into a warm, comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding with that signature ultra-rich finish.

Pro Tip: Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean, indicating the custard has set perfectly for the best homemade bread pudding experience.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. This allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier without the pudding falling apart.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t serve it straight from the oven, as it can be too hot and loose its structure; cooling ensures clean cuts and preserves the ultra-rich texture.

Serving & Presentation

Elevate your Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding with creative plating by dusting the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dash of extra cinnamon for visual appeal. Serve it warm in individual bowls, garnished with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the ultra-rich flavors and add a creamy contrast. For an impressive presentation, pair this homemade bread pudding with complementary sides like fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce, which balances the spices and adds a touch of elegance.

Perfect as a dessert after a hearty American-style meal, this Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding also shines as a breakfast option alongside coffee or tea. Its comforting nature makes it ideal for brunches, where you can present it family-style in the baking dish for a rustic feel. Experiment with seasonal twists, like adding nuts for crunch, to make it versatile for any occasion while keeping the focus on its ultra-rich cinnamon essence.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions

Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare the bread mixture up to 3 days in advance by combining the bread cubes, raisins, and cinnamon in a sealed container in the fridge. The day you plan to bake, whisk the egg mixture and let it soak for 10 minutes before transferring to the baking dish—this keeps the flavors fresh and saves time on busy mornings.

Storing Leftovers: Store any remaining Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its ultra-rich texture. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months, ensuring you wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

The Best Way to Reheat: To restore the original warmth and creaminess, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30-60 seconds on medium power, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This method revives the cinnamon aroma and soft texture without making it rubbery, ensuring your homemade bread pudding tastes just-baked.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding

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• Author: Chef Lalyta
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

A warm and comforting bread pudding made with cinnamon-spiced bread cubes and plump raisins, perfect for dessert or breakfast.

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Ingredients

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• 6 cups of cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup raisins
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, raisins, and cinnamon. Toss to mix evenly.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well blended.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture and stir gently to coat. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 45 minutes, or until golden and set.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use brioche or challah bread. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Method: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 25g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Protein: 10g