A warm and comforting cinnamon bread pudding made with simple pantry ingredients, featuring soft custard-soaked bread baked with cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla for a rich, cozy dessert perfect for any occasion.
Cinnamon Bread Pudding Recipe
Cinnamon bread pudding is a timeless dessert that transforms stale bread into a rich, custard-like bake infused with warm spices. It is simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and deeply comforting, making it ideal for family desserts or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 cups day-old bread (cubed; brioche, white bread, or French bread works best)
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
For topping (optional):
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish (about 8×8 or similar size) with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Cut the bread into bite-sized cubes and place them evenly in the baking dish. If the bread is very soft, you can lightly toast it for better texture.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing the bread gently so it absorbs the liquid. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to fully soak.
Step 5: Add Butter and Optional Mix-Ins
Drizzle the melted butter over the top. Add raisins or nuts if using, and gently mix them into the top layer.
Step 6: Add Topping
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the surface for a sweet, caramelized crust.
Step 7: Bake the Pudding
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set but still slightly soft.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread pudding to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed warm on its own or topped with cream, ice cream, or caramel sauce.
Tips
- Using slightly stale bread helps absorb the custard without becoming mushy.
- For a richer version, substitute part of the milk with heavy cream.
- Add chocolate chips or apple chunks for variation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.
Conclusion
This cinnamon bread pudding is a simple yet deeply satisfying dessert that turns basic ingredients into something warm, fragrant, and comforting. Its soft custard interior and lightly spiced flavor make it a classic treat that never goes out of style.