This warm and comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding is a classic dessert that transforms soft challah bread into a custardy, flavorful treat. Plump raisins simmered with cinnamon add sweetness and spice, while a rich custard made from eggs, milk, and cream soaks into the bread. Finished with a simple cinnamon glaze drizzle, this dessert is perfect for cozy gatherings or an indulgent breakfast treat.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Uses soft, buttery challah bread for a rich texture
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Plump, cinnamon-infused raisins add natural sweetness
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Creamy custard base with warming vanilla and cinnamon
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Easy to prepare ahead and bake when ready
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Perfect for holiday celebrations or comforting family desserts
Ingredients Breakdown
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1 loaf challah, cubed – Soft, slightly sweet bread that soaks up custard perfectly.
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5 eggs – Provide structure and richness to the custard.
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2 cups milk & 2 cups cream – Create a creamy, indulgent base for the custard.
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1 tbsp vanilla extract – Adds warm, aromatic sweetness.
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½ cup sugar & 1 tbsp cinnamon – Sweeten and spice the custard mixture.
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1 cup raisins – Soaked to plump in cinnamon-scented water for juicy bursts.
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1 cup water – Used to boil and soften the raisins.
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2 tbsp butter – Adds richness to the raisin mixture.
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Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar – Sweet base for the glaze.
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2 tbsp milk – Thins the glaze to a drizzle consistency.
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½ tsp cinnamon – Adds a finishing touch of warm spice.
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Tips and Tricks
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Use day-old challah for better custard absorption.
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For extra richness, substitute half the milk with cream.
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Soaking the bread longer intensifies flavor and texture.
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Cover the pudding while baking to prevent drying out.
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Add toasted nuts for a crunchy contrast.
Variations and Customizations
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Substitute challah with brioche or French bread.
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Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates.
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Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard for an adult twist.
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Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
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Accompany with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea.
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Garnish with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Storage Instructions
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Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Popular Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and assemble, then refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day.
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What bread works best?
Challah is ideal for its sweetness and texture, but brioche or thick white bread are great alternatives.
Can I freeze this?
Yes, bake fully, cool, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Description
Custardy challah bread soaked in spiced vanilla cream, studded with plump raisins, and drizzled with cinnamon glaze—cozy perfection
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Ingredients
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1 loaf challah, cut into cubes
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5 large eggs
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2 cups milk
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2 cups heavy cream
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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1 cup raisins
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1 cup water
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2 tablespoons milk
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
In a small saucepan, combine raisins, water, butter, and cinnamon. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer until the raisins swell and the mixture is fragrant (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
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In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, vanilla extract, sugar, and cinnamon until fully combined.
Pour the warm raisin mixture (including liquid) into the custard and stir well.
Add cubed challah bread to the custard mixture. Press down lightly to ensure the bread absorbs the custard evenly. Let it soak for 5 minutes.
Transfer the soaked bread and custard to the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 50 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
While the pudding cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth.
Drizzle the cinnamon glaze over warm slices of bread pudding and serve.
Notes
This Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding combines classic comfort with an easy baking method, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Its rich custard and cinnamon-spiced raisins create an unforgettable dessert experience that will keep everyone coming back for more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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