When I was a kid, my grandmother would make the most amazing cinnamon-raisin bread pudding. It was a family favourite, and we would all gather around the table, anxiously waiting for her to bring out the warm, aromatic dish. Smells of cinnamon and vanilla fill the air, and plump raisins add just the right amount of sweetness. It was pure comfort food, and it always brought us together as a family.
Years later, I realized that my grandmother’s bread pudding was more than just a sweet treat. It was a way to use up leftover bread and reduce food waste.
She would hold the edges of loaves and any kind of stale bread, and turn them into the sweet treat we all love. It was a lesson in resourcefulness and sustainability that sticks with me to this day.
I think this recipe is worth saving and preparing, not only because it’s delicious, but because it’s a reminder of the importance of making the most of the ingredients we have on hand.
*ingredients:
•6 cups cinnamon raisin bread cubes (about 8-10 slices)
•4 large eggs
•2 cups of milk
•1 cup heavy cream
•3/4 cup granulated sugar
•1 teaspoon vanilla
•1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
•1/2 cup raisins
*directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Place the cinnamon-raisin bread cubes in the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, making sure that the bread is completely covered. Sprinkle the raisins evenly on top.
5. Let the bread pudding sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the bread is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
7. Let the bread pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it warm with a little maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream/ice cream, if desired. Enjoy!