Custardy Bread Pudding
A rich, custardy bread pudding with warm cinnamon and vanilla flavors, accented by sweet raisins, perfect for cozy family desserts or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Break the buttered bread slices into the prepared pan.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and milk to the eggs and mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread in the pan.
- Sprinkle raisins evenly over the top.
- Set the baking pan into a larger pan filled with at least 1 inch of hot water to create a water bath.
- Bake for 55 to 60 minutes until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the egg mixture. If you don't have raisins, dried cranberries or chopped nuts can be excellent substitutes. Make sure the bread is sufficiently stale; it should be dry enough to absorb the custard mixture without falling apart. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover bread, much like in Blueberry French Toast Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a delightful dessert experience. This custardy bread pudding pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or whipped cream. For a brunch option, consider serving it alongside savory dishes like quiche or a fresh salad, making it a versatile choice for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a minute or two, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Serve with a drizzle of cream for added richness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Custardy Bread Pudding contains roughly 715 calories, with 8g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Using fresh bread will result in a soggier texture, as it hasn’t had time to dry out. If you must use fresh bread, consider toasting it lightly before adding it to the egg mixture to help it hold its shape.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, as gluten-free breads can absorb liquids differently.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
Absolutely! You can incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, or even different spices like nutmeg for added flavor. Just be mindful of the total volume of ingredients to ensure the custard sets properly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).