Heavenly Raisin Bread Pudding
Indulge in this rich and comforting Heavenly Raisin Bread Pudding, an irresistible treat that transforms leftover bread into a warm, custardy dessert. Ideal for using up that leftover raisin or breakfast bread from brunch, this dessert is especially delightful served warm with a drizzle of cream or topped with whipped cream. With a delightful hint of citrus and a blend of warm spices, this bread pudding is perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a cozy evening treat. The ultimate comfort food, it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your household.
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
loaf of bread
1 (torn into small pieces (preferably breakfast or raisin bread))
milk
4 cups (none)
whipping cream
1 cup (none)
eggs
5 (beaten)
sugar
1 1/2 cups (divided (1 cup for the pudding and 1/2 cup for the topping))
butter or margarine
1/2 cup (melted (plus additional for dotting))
orange zest
1 tablespoon (grated)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (for the pudding, plus 1 teaspoon for the topping)
nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon (freshly grated, if possible)
raisins
1/2-1 cup (optional, add if not using raisin bread)
water
1/4 cup (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and generously butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2
In a large mixing bowl, tear the loaf of bread into small, bite-sized pieces. Add the milk and whipping cream, and gently chop the mixture using two knives or a fork for an even consistency. Allow the mixture to rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquids.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, sugar, melted butter or margarine, orange zest, vanilla extract, cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon), nutmeg, and raisins if desired. Mix until well combined.
4
Carefully fold the egg mixture into the soaked bread, ensuring the bread pieces are fully coated with the custard mixture.
5
Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
6
For the delicious topping, combine the remaining sugar (1/2 cup), water, and cinnamon (1 teaspoon) in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the bread pudding and dot with the remaining butter or margarine.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Depending on your oven, keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
8
Once baked, allow the bread pudding to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares for serving.
9
Enjoy this bread pudding warm, adorned with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a pour of heavy cream for an even more luxurious experience.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Heavenly Raisin Bread Pudding?
Heavenly Raisin Bread Pudding is a rich and comforting dessert that transforms leftover bread into a warm, custardy treat with citrus and warm spices.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
A loaf of breakfast or raisin bread torn into small pieces is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This bread pudding recipe yields approximately 10 servings.
What temperature should I bake the bread pudding at?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).
What size baking dish is required?
You should use a 9x13-inch baking dish for this recipe.
How long does the bread pudding need to bake?
It typically takes between 30 to 40 minutes to bake until the center is set.
How do I know when the bread pudding is finished baking?
The bread pudding is done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
How much milk is needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 4 cups of milk.
Is there a secret to the creamy texture?
Adding 1 cup of whipping cream along with the milk creates a luxurious, custardy consistency.
How many eggs are used in the custard?
The recipe calls for 5 beaten eggs.
Should I grease the baking pan?
Yes, you should generously butter the 9x13-inch baking dish before adding the ingredients.
How long should the bread soak in the milk?
Let the bread, milk, and cream mixture rest for about 10 minutes to allow the liquids to be absorbed.
What if I don't have raisin bread?
If you aren't using raisin bread, you can add 1/2 to 1 cup of raisins to the mixture.
What flavorings are included in the pudding?
The pudding is flavored with orange zest, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
How much orange zest should I add?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of grated orange zest.
Can I use butter or margarine?
Yes, you can use 1/2 cup of either melted butter or margarine for the pudding base.
How much sugar is required in total?
You will need 1 1/2 cups of sugar, divided: 1 cup for the pudding and 1/2 cup for the topping.
What goes into the topping for the bread pudding?
The topping is a mixture of 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and dots of butter.
Should the bread pudding be served hot or cold?
It is best enjoyed warm, ideally with whipped cream or heavy cream.
How long should it cool before serving?
Allow the pudding to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before cutting.
What is the best way to cut the bread pudding?
Once cooled slightly, cut the bread pudding into squares for serving.
Can I use vanilla bean instead of extract?
While the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, you could substitute vanilla bean for a similar flavor profile.
Is this a good recipe for holiday gatherings?
Yes, its rich flavor and comforting nature make it perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
How much cinnamon is used in the pudding itself?
The pudding mixture uses 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.
Do I need to chop the bread after soaking?
Yes, gently chop the soaked bread with two knives or a fork to ensure an even consistency.
What is the purpose of the water in the topping?
The 1/4 cup of water is mixed with sugar and cinnamon to create a sweet glaze-like topping while baking.
Can I use freshly grated nutmeg?
Yes, using 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg is recommended for the best flavor.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and a great way to use up leftover bread.
What should the bread pieces look like?
The loaf of bread should be torn into small, bite-sized pieces before being soaked.
Can I serve this with whipped cream?
Yes, serving it with a generous dollop of whipped cream is highly recommended for a luxurious experience.