Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and comforting flavors: The warm spices and creamy custard create the ultimate indulgence.
• Perfect use for stale bread: This recipe transforms day-old challah into a show-stopping dessert.
• Customizable: Add nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips for your unique twist.
• Easy to make: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 loaf stale challah bread, cubed
• 5 eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the raisins, water, butter, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Cook over medium-high heat until the mixture boils and the raisins plump up. Remove from heat.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, sugar, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Stir in the raisin mixture, including the water.
4. Add the cubed challah bread to the egg mixture, ensuring the bread is fully coated. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
5. Transfer the soaked bread mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 50 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
7. While the pudding is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, milk, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth.
8. Once the bread pudding is done, drizzle the glaze over the top and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add nuts: Sprinkle in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Swap raisins: Use dried cranberries or chopped dates for a twist.
• Chocolate lovers: Mix in chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
• Spice it up: Add nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for a deeper flavor profile.
• Vegan option: Replace eggs with a flaxseed substitute and use plant-based milk and cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the bread pudding to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30-40 seconds or reheat the entire dish in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, brioche, French bread, or even plain sandwich bread work well in this recipe.

2. Do I have to use stale bread?

Stale bread absorbs the custard better, but fresh bread can be used if lightly toasted beforehand.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the bread pudding mixture and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh the next day.

4. How do I prevent the bread pudding from becoming soggy?

Make sure to measure the liquid ingredients carefully and bake until the center is set.

5. Can I skip the glaze?

Certainly, but the glaze adds a sweet and flavorful finishing touch.

6. Can I freeze bread pudding?

Yes, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

7. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or additional whole milk for a lighter version.

8. Can I use other dried fruits?

Absolutely. Apricots, cherries, or figs make excellent substitutions or additions.

9. Is there a way to make this less sweet?

Reduce the sugar in the custard and glaze to suit your taste.

10. How do I know when the bread pudding is done?

The center should be set, not jiggly, and a knife inserted should come out mostly clean.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding is a nostalgic dessert that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether you serve it for a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this dish will surely delight everyone at the table. Customize it with your favorite flavors and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic treat!

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