Old Fashioned Raisin Bread Pudding
A comforting raisin bread pudding with warm spices and rich custard, perfect for brunch or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy classic, flavorful baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix all the ingredients, except the bread and 1/2 cup of sugar.
- Place the mixture in a 2-quart square glass pan.
- Place this pan on a large 9 x 13-inch metal pan.
- Fill the metal pan with hot water so that it comes up about halfway up the glass pan.
- Bake for one hour or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half-and-half for some of the milk. If you want to add a twist, try incorporating chopped nuts or dried fruits like cranberries. When mixing, ensure the eggs are fully combined for a smooth consistency. Using day-old raisin bread will enhance the texture as it absorbs the custard mixture better. Don't skip the water bath; it helps prevent the pudding from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with a simple vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish. It pairs beautifully with Luscious Chocolate Dessert for a sweet ending to any meal. For a brunch option, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a light Pimiento Salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You may want to cover it with foil to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Raisin Bread Pudding contains roughly 1118 calories, with 2g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 6g 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 regular bread instead of raisin bread?
Yes, you can use regular bread, but you may want to add raisins separately to achieve a similar flavor. Consider adding about 1 cup of raisins or other dried fruit to the custard mixture for sweetness and texture.
How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
The bread pudding is done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If it still has custard on it, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pudding a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just remember to add some extra baking time if it's chilled. This can help develop the flavors and make it easier to serve when you're ready.
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).