Raspberry Bread Pudding from Kneaders Bakery & Cafe features soft, custard-soaked bread infused with fresh raspberries and a hint of vanilla, baked to golden perfection and topped with a drizzle of sweet raspberry sauce, offering a warm and fruity dessert experience.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Bread knife
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Spatula
- Medium saucepan
- Wire rack
- Ladle (for pouring custard)
- Baking sheet (optional, for water bath or catching drips)
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing)
- 1/2 cup raspberry preserves (for sauce)
- 1/4 cup water (for sauce)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Fresh raspberries are essential for achieving the authentic fruity flavor in this Raspberry Bread Pudding, so use ripe, high-quality berries for the best results. Stale or day-old French bread works best to soak up the custard without becoming overly mushy, allowing the pudding to hold its shape during baking. Whole milk and heavy cream combined create a rich custard base, balancing creaminess and texture, so measure carefully for consistency. Vanilla extract and ground cinnamon enhance the aroma and depth of flavor, so avoid substituting unless necessary. Your copycat Raspberry Bread Pudding from Kneaders Bakery & Cafe will delight with its custard-soaked bread, fresh raspberries, and warm raspberry sauce, capturing the cafe's signature dessert perfectly.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Slice French bread into 1-inch cubes.
- Arrange half of bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup fresh raspberries over the bread layer.
- Add remaining bread cubes on top.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Slowly ladle the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- Gently press bread down with a spatula so custard absorbs evenly.
- Scatter remaining raspberries on top.
- Let sit for 15–20 minutes to allow bread to fully absorb custard.
- Place dish on a baking sheet if desired.
- Bake in preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until golden and set.
- Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.
- Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, combine raspberry preserves and water over medium heat.
- Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
- Drizzle warm raspberry sauce over baked bread pudding.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Raspberry Bread Pudding from Kneaders Bakery & Cafe copycat recipe can easily be adjusted by substituting fresh raspberries with frozen ones when out of season, just be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture. If French bread is unavailable, challah or brioche are excellent alternatives due to their soft texture and ability to absorb custard evenly. Whole milk and heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess. When preparing the custard, whisk the eggs thoroughly to ensure a smooth mixture, which will prevent a rubbery texture in your final pudding. Your raspberry sauce can be thickened slightly by simmering longer or adding a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed in cold water before heating.
Tips
Ensure the bread cubes are fully soaked in the custard by gently pressing them down after pouring to achieve a moist, creamy texture in your Raspberry Bread Pudding. Avoid skipping the resting period of 15-20 minutes before baking, as this allows the bread to absorb the custard evenly, preventing dry spots. Monitor the baking time closely; bake until the pudding is golden and set but not overcooked to keep the custard soft and custardy. When making the raspberry sauce, stir continuously to achieve a smooth consistency without burning, which enhances the dessert's fruity flavor.
Nutritions
Raspberry Bread Pudding from Kneaders Bakery & Cafe provides a rich blend of carbohydrates from French bread and natural antioxidants from fresh raspberries, supporting energy and immune health. The custard, made with eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream, contributes high-quality protein, calcium, and essential vitamins like B12 and D. Sugar content adds sweetness but may increase calorie intake, so moderating portion size helps maintain balanced nutrition. You can enjoy this dessert as an occasional treat that combines creamy texture with fruity flavors while offering some nutritional benefits from its wholesome ingredients.
Storage
Store your Raspberry Bread Pudding in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and moisture. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warm to enjoy the custard-soaked bread and raspberry flavors at their best. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture of the custard and fresh raspberries.
Variation or Alternatives
For a different twist, you can substitute the fresh raspberries with blueberries or blackberries to vary the berry flavor in your bread pudding. Try using brioche or challah instead of French bread for a richer, softer texture that absorbs the custard exceptionally well. You may also experiment with adding a splash of almond extract or orange zest to the custard mixture for an aromatic boost. If you prefer a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with additional whole milk or a plant-based milk alternative.
Allergies
Raspberry Bread Pudding contains eggs, milk, heavy cream, and butter, which are common allergens that may affect individuals with dairy or egg allergies. Fresh raspberries and raspberry preserves could pose a risk for those with berry allergies or sensitivities to fruit seeds. Your best option is to check ingredient labels and communicate any allergies to the bakery before consuming this dessert.
Why this recipe?
The Raspberry Bread Pudding from Kneaders Bakery & Cafe is beloved for its perfect balance of rich custard and tart raspberry flavors, creating a delightful contrast that appeals to many dessert lovers. Its moist texture combined with the sweet and slightly tangy burst of fresh raspberries elevates the traditional bread pudding experience. You'll find that replicating this dish at home is rewarding because it uses simple, accessible ingredients, allowing you to enjoy a cafe-quality dessert without the need to dine out. Making a copycat version ensures you can indulge in this unique treat anytime, perfect for gatherings or personal enjoyment.