Easy Bread Pudding

Jump To Recipe by Lily Ernst on Jul 14, 2021 (updated Mar 20, 2022)

This easy version of an old-fashioned bread pudding is made with cinnamon raisin bread baked in a silky custard that’s lightly scented with vanilla. It has all the flavors of a classic bread pudding with half the work. A slice of old-fashioned bread pudding on a plate with a fork.

Table of Contents

What is bread pudding?

Bread pudding is a casserole-style dish made with stale bread soaked in a custard mixture made with milk, sugar, and eggs. It’s then baked or steamed until the custard is set. It’s commonly served for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert.

Bread pudding originated in England back in the 13th century. It was a way to use up stale bread and used to be called “poor man’s pudding”. Nowadays, it can be made lavish by using special bread and fancy ingredients.

Why this recipe is so great:

Just 5 simple ingredients – The use of cinnamon raisin bread makes this recipe so much easier because it already has the raisins and all the spices baked into the bread. So then all you have to do is make the custard, which is simply milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract.
Can be made in advance – This bread pudding recipe can be made the night before, so then all you have to do is pop it in the oven the next day.
Makes for a great breakfast or dessert – This easy bread pudding is wholesome enough for breakfast and yummy enough for dessert. Serve it warm with maple syrup for breakfast or with ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

The texture is soft in the center with crunchy toasted edges. The custard is delicate and silky. The taste is lightly sweet with warm notes of cinnamon and vanilla. It has a rustic charm and makes enough to serve a crowd.

How to make bread pudding:

(the ingredient amounts are listed in the printable recipe card further below)

Place a loaf of cubed cinnamon raisin bread in a buttered 9×13″ baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together some milk, eggs, granulated sugar, and a splash of vanilla.
Pour the milk mixture over the bread. Cover and let stand for 1 hour or overnight in the fridge.
When ready to serve, bake in a 350F preheated oven for 45 minutes.

How to serve:

The wonderful thing about bread pudding is that you can serve it any way you want. Feel free to serve it with a hard sauce like a brandy, bourbon, or rum butter sauce. You can also serve it with some vanilla sauce or with my favorite, maple syrup. I even like it served warm with some melty vanilla ice cream on top for a fun treat. It’s really up to you.

How to store bread pudding:

Once completely cooled, tightly cover, and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

How to reheat bread pudding:

You can reheat bread pudding in the oven or microwave. The oven is best for reheating a large batch. The microwave is best for reheating a small batch or single serving.

Oven method – Preheat oven to 350F. If the bread pudding appears a little dry, spoon a little milk over top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 10-20 minutes until heated through. Uncover and broil for 1 minute to toast the top.

Microwave method – Place the bread pudding in a microwave-safe dish and reheat for 30-60 seconds per serving until warm.

FAQ:

Why is stale bread better for bread pudding?

It’s better for soaking up the custard mixture. Also, the concept of bread pudding originated as a way to use up old bread, but fresh bread works too.

How do you tell if bread pudding is done?

Bread pudding is done when it’s puffed up and a thin knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can you freeze bread pudding?

Yes, it can be tightly wrapped and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm up in the microwave or oven before serving.

Does bread pudding need to be refrigerated?

Yes, bread pudding needs to be refrigerated to keep the custard fresh.

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