Cinnamon Bread Pudding: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Cinnamon bread pudding: just the name conjures up images of cozy kitchens, the warm scent of cinnamon filling the air, and a dessert that feels like a hug from the inside out. Have you ever craved a dish that’s both comforting and decadent? Well, look no further! This isn’t just any dessert; it’s a culinary masterpiece that transforms humble ingredients into something truly extraordinary.

Bread pudding, in its various forms, has a rich history, dating back to the early 11th and 12th centuries. It was originally a way to use up stale bread, a resourceful practice that has evolved into a beloved dessert enjoyed worldwide. While variations exist across cultures, the essence remains the same: transforming simple ingredients into a delightful treat. Our cinnamon bread pudding recipe elevates this classic with the aromatic warmth of cinnamon, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

What makes bread pudding so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures – a creamy, custard-like base contrasted with the slightly crisp edges of the bread. The addition of cinnamon adds a layer of warmth and spice that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle it with caramel sauce, or simply savor it on its own. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a special celebration. Get ready to experience the magic of cinnamon bread pudding!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf (about 1 pound) day-old challah, brioche, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries, soaked in warm water for 15 minutes and drained
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• For the Cinnamon Streusel Topping (optional):
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preparing the Bread and Custard:

1. Prepare the Bread: First, we need to get our bread ready. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is lightly toasted and dried out. This step is crucial because it prevents the bread pudding from becoming soggy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily! Let the toasted bread cubes cool slightly.
2. Whisk the Eggs and Sugars: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and slightly frothy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Make sure the sugars are well incorporated to avoid any grainy texture in the final product.
3. Add Dairy and Spices: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until everything is well combined. Then, stir in the melted butter, cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt. The aroma at this point is already amazing!
4. Combine Bread and Custard: Place the toasted bread cubes in a large bowl. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure all the bread is evenly saturated. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard. If you’re using raisins or cranberries and nuts, now is the time to add them. Gently fold them into the bread and custard mixture.
5. Let it Rest: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a richer and more flavorful bread pudding. The longer it rests, the better the texture will be!

Making the Cinnamon Streusel Topping (Optional):

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting.
3. Chill (Optional): For best results, chill the streusel topping in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before using. This helps the butter stay cold and prevents the topping from spreading too much during baking.

Baking the Bread Pudding:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the bread pudding mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Add Streusel Topping (Optional): If you’re using the streusel topping, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the bread pudding.
4. Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean. The center might still be slightly jiggly, but it will firm up as it cools.
5. Cool Slightly: Let the bread pudding cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows it to set properly and prevents it from being too runny.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Serve Warm: Bread pudding is best served warm.
2. Optional Toppings: Consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar. A dollop of whipped cream is also a delicious addition.
3. Storage: Leftover bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another dessert; it’s an experience. The warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon, the soft, custardy texture, and the satisfying sweetness all combine to make this cinnamon bread pudding a truly unforgettable treat. I genuinely believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves classic comfort food with a touch of elegance. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dessert, yet impressive enough to serve at a special occasion.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s more than just the sum of its parts. It’s the way the cinnamon swirls through every bite, the way the bread soaks up the creamy custard, and the way it fills your kitchen with the most inviting scent imaginable. It’s a hug in a bowl, a taste of home, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover bread you might have lying around, making it both delicious and economical.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I’ve shared my go-to recipe, feel free to get creative with it. For a truly decadent experience, try adding a drizzle of salted caramel sauce just before serving. Or, if you’re a fan of nuts, a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts would add a delightful crunch. For a fruity twist, consider incorporating some dried cranberries or raisins into the bread mixture. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, a splash of bourbon or rum into the custard base will add a warm, boozy kick that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

Serving suggestions are endless! Enjoy it warm, straight from the oven, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also delicious served cold, making it a great make-ahead dessert for parties. For breakfast or brunch, pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a truly indulgent start to your day. You could even cut it into squares and serve it as part of a dessert buffet.

I’ve made this cinnamon bread pudding countless times, and it always disappears in a flash. It’s a recipe that I know I’ll be making for years to come, and I’m so excited to share it with you. I truly believe that once you try it, it will become a staple in your own kitchen as well.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade cinnamon bread pudding. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear how much you enjoyed this delicious and comforting dessert. Happy baking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. I’m confident that you’ll find this cinnamon bread pudding recipe to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.