Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delicious Pepperidge Farm Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding recipe! This classic dessert is perfect for a cozy night in, a special occasion, or even a simple weeknight treat. Using the familiar, comforting flavor of Pepperidge Farm Cinnamon Raisin bread elevates this already beloved dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Forget complicated baking – this recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. Get ready to indulge in a taste of pure heaven!
Ingredients:
- 6 slices Pepperidge Farm Cinnamon Raisin Bread, crusts removed and cubed (about 6 cups)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional, for extra raisin goodness!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Gently toss the cubed bread with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl. This ensures even distribution of flavor throughout the pudding.
Step 2: Create the Custard
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until well combined and slightly frothy. This creates a smooth and creamy custard base for your bread pudding.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour the custard mixture over the seasoned bread cubes, gently stirring to ensure all the bread is soaked. If using extra raisins, add them now, stirring them in carefully. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully. This step is crucial for a moist and tender pudding.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not clean.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. This allows it to set further and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Bread Pudding:
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry bread pudding. Start checking for doneness around the 45-minute mark.
- Stale bread works best: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better than fresh bread, resulting in a richer, more moist pudding.
- Customize your spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Chocolate Bread Pudding: Use Pepperidge Farm chocolate swirl bread instead of cinnamon raisin bread. Add chocolate chips to the custard mixture.
- Apple Bread Pudding: Add diced apples to the bread mixture for a delicious twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size. For a general estimate, one serving contains roughly 350-400 calories, 15-20g of fat, and 40-50g of carbohydrates. We recommend using a nutrition calculator for precise values based on your specific ingredients.
This easy recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. You can assemble the pudding the night before and bake it in the morning, making it a fantastic option for brunch or a delightful weekend dessert. The comforting aroma of warm cinnamon and raisin will fill your kitchen, promising a truly satisfying and delicious experience. Enjoy every bite of this homemade culinary masterpiece!