Cinnamon Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and bread into a warm, custardy treat. This dish is perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even a cozy night in. The unique blend of brioche bread and creamy custard creates a rich texture that is simply irresistible. Top it with rum caramel sauce and a scoop of ice cream for an unforgettable experience!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this Cinnamon Bread Pudding is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cinnamon, vanilla, and caramel creates a delightful flavor profile that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm on its own or elevate it with ice cream and caramel sauce for special occasions.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is a great way to use up stale bread, turning it into something delicious instead of wasting it.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday feast, this pudding will be a hit amongst guests.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Cinnamon Bread Pudding.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect texture for your pudding.
- Mixing bowls: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: A must-have for blending eggs and liquids to achieve a smooth custard mixture.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Bread Pudding – The crumbly layers of bread pudding infused with creamy custard and crusted with cinnamon sugar, topped with decadent rum caramel sauce and a scoop of ice cream!
Main Ingredients
- 10-12 slices Brioche bread, cubed (You can use regular white bread too)
- 1/2 cup Raisins
- 1/3 cup Pecans, roughly chopped
Custard Mixture
- 3 Eggs
- 1.5 cups Coconut milk (You can use any milk you prefer)
- 3/4 cup Raw sugar (You can use white sugar)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1.5 tsp Cinnamon powder
Toppings
- 1 tbsp Butter, melted
- 2 tsp Cinnamon sugar, for topping (Optional)
- Ice cream and caramel sauce for serving (Optional)
How to Make Cinnamon Bread Pudding
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cubed brioche bread, raisins, and chopped pecans. Mix them together gently to ensure an even distribution.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, coconut milk, raw sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon powder until fully blended.
Step 3: Combine Bread Mixture with Custard
Pour the custard mixture over the bread mixture. Press down slightly so that all the bread absorbs the liquid.
Step 4: Let It Rest
Allow the mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes so that most of the custard gets soaked up by the bread.
Step 5: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while waiting for the bread mixture to absorb the custard.
Step 6: Bake
Pour your soaked bread mixture into a baking pan (8 or 9 in diameter). If using two small baking dishes, divide evenly. Drizzle melted butter over the top and sprinkle cinnamon sugar if desired. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown on top.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, serve your Cinnamon Bread Pudding warm with a scoop of ice cream and drizzle of caramel sauce. Enjoy!
How to Serve Cinnamon Bread Pudding
Cinnamon Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate this comforting dish.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the warm spices.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this combination creates a rich and indulgent experience.
Drizzled with Sauce
- Caramel Sauce: A warm drizzle of caramel enhances the sweetness and richness of the pudding.
- Chocolate Sauce: Adds a decadent touch, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of extra sweetness.
Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Add fresh strawberries or blueberries for a burst of freshness that contrasts nicely with the custard.
- Sliced Bananas: Sweet bananas complement the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
Whipped Cream
- Classic Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a lovely texture to each bite of bread pudding.
- Cinnamon-Spiced Whipped Cream: Infusing whipped cream with cinnamon brings an extra layer of flavor.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Bread Pudding
To ensure you have the perfect Cinnamon Bread Pudding, consider these helpful tips. Each one will enhance your baking experience and outcome.
- Choose the Right Bread: Brioche bread works best because it absorbs custard well and provides a light texture. However, you can use day-old white bread too.
- Soak Time Matters: Allowing the mixture to soak for longer ensures every piece of bread is infused with custard, leading to a moist pudding.
- Temperature Check: Make sure your oven is preheated before baking. An uneven temperature can lead to inconsistent cooking.
- Golden Brown Finish: Keep an eye on your pudding as it bakes; once it’s golden brown on top, it’s likely ready!
- Serving Warm: Serve immediately after baking for the best texture and flavor. It’s delicious when warm!
- Add Toppings Just Before Serving: To keep toppings like ice cream or sauces fresh, add them right before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Bread Pudding
While Cinnamon Bread Pudding is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pudding.
- Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee balances the sweetness and enhances flavors beautifully.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling pure maple syrup over your bread pudding adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs well with cinnamon.
- Nutty Granola: Crushed granola sprinkled on top adds crunch and additional flavors that contrast nicely with soft pudding.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can add savory notes to your dessert experience; consider creamy brie or sharp cheddar.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet bites create an indulgent pairing that’s perfect for special occasions.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy element and enhance the overall taste profile.
- Scone or Biscuit: A buttery scone or biscuit can be a great addition alongside this sweet dessert, offering different textures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cinnamon Bread Pudding can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Ignoring bread quality – Using stale bread is ideal for this recipe. Fresh bread can turn mushy, so choose bread that’s a few days old.
- Overmixing the custard – Whisk the custard just until combined. Overmixing can create a rubbery texture in your pudding.
- Not letting it soak – Allow the mixture to stand for at least 10-15 minutes. This helps the bread absorb the custard fully for better flavor and texture.
- Skipping the cinnamon sugar topping – The extra crunch and flavor from cinnamon sugar elevate this dish. Don’t skip it unless you have dietary restrictions.
- Baking at the wrong temperature – Ensure your oven is preheated to 180C. Baking at too low a temperature can result in an undercooked center.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Cinnamon Bread Pudding
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in a container for best results.
Reheating Cinnamon Bread Pudding
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 175C and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat individual portions on medium power for 30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary, and cover until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Bread Pudding.
What type of bread works best for Cinnamon Bread Pudding?
Brioche or challah breads are excellent choices due to their richness and ability to absorb custard well. However, regular white bread can also work if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use plant-based milk like almond or soy instead of coconut milk.
How do I know when my Cinnamon Bread Pudding is done?
The pudding should be golden brown on top and set in the middle. You can insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Can I add other toppings to my Cinnamon Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit as toppings before baking for additional flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Bread Pudding is a comforting dessert that brings warmth and joy with every bite. This recipe is versatile; you can customize it with different types of bread or toppings according to your taste. Try making it today for a delightful treat!
Cinnamon Bread Pudding
Cinnamon Bread Pudding is a heartwarming dessert that blends the comforting flavors of cinnamon and brioche into a rich, custardy delight. Perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or cozy nights in, this dish transforms stale bread into something extraordinary. Topped with a luscious rum caramel sauce and a scoop of ice cream, it promises an unforgettable indulgence. Whether enjoyed on its own or dressed up with toppings, this sweet treat will surely satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 10-12 slices brioche bread, cubed
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/3 cup pecans, chopped
- 3 eggs
- 1.5 cups coconut milk
- 3/4 cup raw sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1.5 tsp cinnamon powder
- Optional: butter, cinnamon sugar, ice cream, caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large bowl, mix cubed brioche, raisins, and pecans.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, coconut milk, raw sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Pour custard over bread mixture; press down to soak.
- Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer to a baking dish; drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar if desired.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with ice cream and caramel sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
