Warm, creamy, and just the right touch of sweet—that’s the magic of a classic Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe. This beloved dessert, known in Spanish as pan de budin, combines humble ingredients and transforms them into something deeply nostalgic and outrageously delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal idea, a healthy dessert alternative, or just a way to use up day-old bread, this pudding will check all the boxes.
I still remember the first time I tried this dish at my grandmother’s home in Havana. The cinnamon hit first, followed by the milky smoothness and just a touch of rum-soaked raisins. Think of it as the tropical cousin of your traditional bread pudding—but with more personality and flair. If you’re craving an easy recipe that feels like a warm hug, then this is your moment. Let’s dive into what makes this dessert so cherished.
- What is Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe?
- Why You’ll Love This Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
- How to Make Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
- What to Serve With Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
- Top Tips for Perfecting Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
- Storing and Reheating Tips
- Health Benefits of Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
- Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe From DelishDish!
- Conclusion
- FAQs: Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
- 💬 Share Your Twist!
What is Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe?
Ever wondered why a dessert made from leftover bread can taste like something straight out of a 5-star restaurant? That’s the magic of pan de budin. The name might sound fancy, but it’s as homestyle as they come.
Why is it called a pudding when it looks more like a sweet bread casserole? Does adding condensed milk really make it better? (Spoiler: YES.) Let’s just say, Cubans know a thing or two about turning scraps into gold.
You know what they say: “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dessert is the key. If you’re on the fence about trying this popular dessert, let this be your sign. You need this easy cake recipe in your life.
Why You’ll Love This Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
Main Highlights
- Rich and Creamy Texture: It’s like a cross between flan and cake.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.
- Healthy Ingredients: You can adapt it using plant-based milk or coconut sugar.
- Quick and Easy Recipe: Just mix, soak, and bake.
- Tasty Dessert: Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the flavor profile.
Whether you’re a dessert aficionado or someone new to baking, this recipe delivers every time.
Cost-Saving Benefits
Why pay $6 a slice at a bakery when you can make a whole tray at home for the same price?
- Budget-Friendly Desserts: Perfect for large families or gatherings.
- Cost-Effective Baking: Uses stale bread, pantry staples, and minimal prep.
- Eco-Friendly: Great way to avoid food waste.
Flavorful Toppings and Customizations
Looking to jazz things up?
- Add a homemade topping like guava glaze.
- Try delicious frosting ideas like coconut whipped cream or spiced caramel.
- Top with fresh fruit, shaved coconut, or even chocolate chips.
How to Make Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
Quick Overview
This dessert is the definition of a simple preparation. In just a few steps, you’ll have a quick and easy dessert recipe ready to wow your family or guests.
Key Ingredients
Ingredient List
- 5 cups stale Cuban bread (cut into cubes)
- 2 cups whole milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup raisins (optional: soaked in rum)
- Pinch of salt
- Butter for greasing the pan
Visual Ingredients Image
This step is all about starting right with fresh ingredients for baking and your favorite essential cake ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Base
Cut your stale bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large bowl. This is your base.
Tip: The older the bread, the better the pudding. Dry bread absorbs more flavor.
Use keywords like easy steps for making cake to remind yourself how straightforward this is.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt.
This is one of those simple baking tips that guarantees smooth texture.
Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the liquid over the bread and let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb fully.
This is key in mastering those cake preparation tips.
Step 4: Add Raisins and Pour into Pan
Gently fold in the raisins. Grease a baking dish and pour the mixture in evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and set. A knife should come out clean.
A crucial part of your quick recipe steps.
What to Serve With Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
Looking to turn this into a showstopper?
- Pair it with refreshing drinks with desserts like Cuban coffee or tropical smoothies.
- Serve it warm with ice cream or chilled with whipped cream.
- Top with toasted coconut or a drizzle of dulce de leche.
These are your best cake pairings to make each bite unforgettable.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
Ingredient Substitutions
- No Cuban bread? Use French or Italian bread.
- Vegan? Use flax eggs and coconut milk.
- Low-sugar? Swap with monk fruit sweetener.
Perfect for those seeking healthy ingredient swaps or substituting cake ingredients.
Timing Adjustments
- If using a glass dish, add 5 minutes to the baking time.
- For mini versions, bake only 30 minutes.
Dialing in your adjust baking time settings will make all the difference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Leads to dryness.
- Not soaking long enough: Results in uneven texture.
- Skipping greasing: Causes sticking.
These are classic cake baking mistakes that you can dodge with ease.
Storing and Reheating Tips
How to Store
- Cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
These are essential cake storage tips for enjoying leftovers.
How to Reheat
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.
- Microwave individual servings for 30 seconds.
Reheating the right way preserves the texture and flavor—preserving cake texture like a pro.
Health Benefits of Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
Nutritional Value Table
| Ingredient | Calories | Fiber (g) | Protein (g) | Key Nutrients |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cuban Bread (1 cup) | 150 | 1.2 | 4 | B Vitamins, Iron |
| Whole Milk (1 cup) | 150 | 0 | 8 | Calcium, Vitamin D |
| Eggs (1 large) | 70 | 0 | 6 | Choline, Protein |
| Raisins (1/3 cup) | 130 | 2 | 1 | Antioxidants, Iron |
| Condensed Milk (1/2 c) | 250 | 0 | 5 | Calcium, Vitamin A |
This data highlights the nutritional benefits of ingredients and justifies this as a healthy baking choice in moderation.
Why These Ingredients Are Good for You
- Eggs: Packed with protein and essential amino acids.
- Milk: Provides calcium for strong bones.
- Raisins: Rich in antioxidants and iron.
- Bread: Surprisingly nutritious when whole grain.
All these are nutritious ingredients for cakes that support healthier baking ingredients.
Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe From DelishDish!
Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe (Pan de Budin)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8×8 or 9×13-inch baking dish
- Oven
- Butter or cooking spray
Ingredients
- 5 cups stale Cuban bread cubed
- 2 cups whole milk or plant-based milk
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup raisins optional: soaked in rum
- Pinch of salt
- Butter for greasing pan
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare Bread: Cube your stale Cuban bread and place it into a large mixing bowl.
- Make Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt.
- Soak Bread: Pour the custard over the bread cubes and let sit for 15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Add Raisins: Gently fold in raisins or other optional mix-ins like chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- Transfer & Bake: Pour mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving warm, or refrigerate and serve chilled.
Notes
Conclusion
If you’re seeking a recipe that combines flavor, nostalgia, and practicality, this Cuban Bread Pudding is your go-to. Its rich texture and warm spice notes make it the kind of dish that brings people together. Whether served for dessert or as a sweet breakfast treat, this pudding is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The best part? It’s highly customizable and forgiving. Forgot to soak the raisins? No worries. Only have almond milk on hand? Go for it. The spirit of this dessert is about using what you have to create something unforgettable. With every bite, you’re experiencing a slice of Cuban culture and culinary charm.
So go ahead, preheat that oven and give this recipe a try. Share it with your family, post your pudding photos, or pass it down as a treasured recipe. Because once you make it, this traditional Cuban pudding might just become your new favorite comfort dessert. Cheers to all the baking enthusiasts and cake lovers out there!
FAQs: Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread for Cuban bread pudding?
Yes! While Cuban bread gives the most authentic texture, you can substitute it with French bread, brioche, or even challah for a richer flavor.
Should I soak the raisins before adding them?
Soaking raisins in warm water or rum for 10–15 minutes softens them and adds a burst of flavor to the pudding.
How do I know when the bread pudding is fully cooked?
It’s ready when the top is golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with just a bit of custard-like texture.
Can I make Cuban bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven before serving for best results.
💬 Share Your Twist!
Did you give this Cuban Bread Pudding Recipe your own personal flair? Maybe you added a splash of rum, topped it with dulce de leche, or swapped in coconut milk for a tropical vibe?
We’d love to hear how you made this pan de budin uniquely yours! 👩🍳👨🍳
Drop your creative versions, secret ingredients, or family-approved tweaks in the comments below. Who knows? Your twist might just inspire the next sweet sensation! ✨
Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your delicious creations using #CubanBreadPuddingTwist — we might feature your pudding masterpiece!
