Easy Orange Pudding
A creamy, citrus-flavored bread pudding featuring orange and raisin bread, perfect for a comforting dessert with a bright, fruity twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare a 2 or 3-quart shallow baking dish along with a larger dish for water bath.
- Spread softened butter or margarine on the raisin bread slices and cut them into serving-sized pieces if desired.
- Arrange the bread slices in the prepared baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until well combined.
- Add the orange juice, grated orange rind, and milk to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of cold milk or orange juice, then add to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the bread slices in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- Place the baking dish into the larger dish filled with hot water to create a water bath.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden on top.
- Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve warm or chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of orange juice and zest from blood oranges or adding a splash of vanilla extract. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute with equal parts flour, though it may slightly alter the texture. Use any type of bread, but raisin bread adds a unique sweetness. If you prefer a dairy-free version, try almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pudding warm or chilled, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with Lou Ellen'S Strawberry 3-Layer for a delightful dessert spread. Fresh berries or a citrus salad make excellent sides, balancing the pudding's richness with a refreshing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Orange Pudding contains roughly 1260 calories, with 11g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 564mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
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 other types of bread for this pudding?
Absolutely! While raisin bread is delicious, you can use any type of bread, such as challah, brioche, or even plain white bread. Each type will lend a different flavor and texture to the pudding, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the pudding mixture and soak the bread the night before. Cover the baking dish and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply bake it as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of serving.
Is it possible to make this pudding gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread. Look for brands that are soft and not too dense to ensure the pudding has a pleasant texture. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness as it bakes.
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).