Zesty Bread Pudding
Zesty bread pudding combines tender bread with warm spices, raisins, pecans, and coconut for a rich, comforting dessert perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put one slice of bread in the blender at a time to get 7 cups of crumbs.
- Mix milk, eggs, sugar, and margarine in a bowl.
- Add the bread crumbs, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the mixture and stir well.
- Fold in raisins, pecans, and coconut.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 55 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding orange zest or swapping out some bread for croissants for a richer texture. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter works perfectly. Adjust the sweetness by reducing sugar or using a sugar substitute. For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans and use sunflower seeds instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside M Z'S Crushed Pineapple Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm the entire dish in an oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zesty Bread Pudding contains roughly 1533 calories, with 17g protein, 204g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1034mg per serving (45% 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 stale bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Stale bread is ideal for bread pudding as it absorbs the custard mixture better, resulting in a richer texture. If your bread is too fresh, consider toasting it lightly to help it soak up the liquid.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by replacing eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and using plant-based milk and margarine. The flavor will still be delicious!
Can I add other fruits instead of raisins?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits such as cranberries, apricots, or cherries. Fresh fruits like sliced bananas or apples can also be added, but reduce the liquid slightly to maintain the right consistency.
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).