What makes a warm bread pudding truly special is the combination of tender bread and sweet raisins, all baked to perfection with a hint of cinnamon in a homemade recipe that’s easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner. Save this idea for a family favorite dessert to try soon

a close up of a person holding a plate of bread pudding with raisins

Introduction

Imagine a warm, comforting dessert that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the richness of a perfectly balanced flavor profile. This bread pudding with raisins is a masterpiece of ease and creativity, allowing you to transform stale bread into a culinary delight. With its soft, fluffy texture and the sweetness of raisins, this dessert is sure to become a favorite. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create something special with ingredients you likely have on hand.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of stale bread, eggs, sugar, and raisins creates a perfectly balanced flavor that’s both sweet and savory, using ingredients that are easily found in most kitchens.
• Ease of preparation: The steps involved in making this bread pudding are straightforward and simple, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is a dessert that looks and tastes like it was made in a professional bakery, sure to impress family and friends.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this bread pudding include stale bread (any type will do, but firmer breads like baguette or ciabatta work best), eggs, sugar, raisins, and a hint of spice like cinnamon or nutmeg. For those looking for substitutions, you can use different types of sugar or spices to change up the flavor. Additionally, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free bread. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility and the ability to adapt it to your dietary needs and preferences.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Tear the stale bread into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Measure out your sugar, eggs, and spices. If using, chop any nuts or additional fruits you plan to add.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and any spices you’re using until well combined. Add in any milk or cream you’re using to moisten the bread, and stir until the mixture is smooth.
3. Step 3: Pour the wet ingredients over the bread pieces and toss until the bread is evenly coated. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. Then, fold in your raisins and any other mix-ins you’re using.
4. Step 4: Transfer the bread mixture to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to let the bread mixture sit for the full 10 minutes to ensure the bread absorbs as much liquid as possible, resulting in a moist and fluffy pudding.
• Don’t overmix the bread and wet ingredients, as this can lead to a dense pudding.
• Consider using different types of bread or adding other ingredients like chocolate chips or dried cranberries to change up the flavor and texture.

Heat Control

When baking the bread pudding, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the temperature and timing. The ideal temperature is 350°F (175°C), and you should bake for 35-40 minutes. The pudding is done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the pudding.

Crunch Factor

The texture of this bread pudding should be soft and fluffy on the inside, with a slightly crispy top. To achieve this, make sure not to overmix the ingredients, and don’t overbake. If you prefer a crunchier top, you can broil the pudding for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking, watching closely to avoid burning.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra moist pudding, try soaking the raisins in a liquor of your choice (like rum or bourbon) before adding them to the mixture.
• To make cleanup easier, line your baking dish with parchment paper before adding the bread mixture.
• Consider making individual portions of the pudding in ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Storage Tips

• Leftover bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• For longer storage, the pudding can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
• When storing, use airtight containers to keep the pudding fresh and prevent drying out.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This bread pudding makes a wonderful gift, especially when packaged in a beautiful way. Consider baking the pudding in small, decorative dishes or ramekins, then wrapping each one in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and tying with a ribbon. You could also package the pudding in a decorative tin or jar, perfect for a homemade gift. Add a personal touch with a handwritten note or card, and you have a thoughtful and delicious present for friends and family.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger to give the pudding a unique twist.
• Creative toppings: Top the pudding with a scoop of ice cream, caramel sauce, or fresh fruit for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Use different types of sugar, like brown sugar or honey, for a deeper flavor. You could also substitute the raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries or cherries.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your pudding turns out too dry, it may be due to overbaking. If it’s too wet, you might not have baked it long enough.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re missing an ingredient, consider substitutions. For example, you could use almond milk instead of regular milk or honey instead of sugar.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the pudding while it’s baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil. If it’s not browning at all, it might need a few more minutes in the oven.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the bread pudding can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
• Is it gluten-free? This depends on the type of bread you use. If you use gluten-free bread, the pudding will be gluten-free. Otherwise, it will contain gluten.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or even triple the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may need a few more minutes in the oven.

Conclusion

Making this bread pudding with raisins is a journey of discovery, allowing you to transform simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. With its ease of preparation, impressive results, and the flexibility to adapt to your tastes and dietary needs, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to create something special. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the process of making this delicious dessert. Share your experiences, tips, and variations with friends and family, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further guidance. Happy baking!