Name: Raspberry Bread Pudding
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 10 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 loaves aged white bread, cut into 1 ½ inch cubes; 4 cups heavy cream; 3 cups granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 5 cups raspberries fresh or frozen; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup apple juice; 1 1/3 cups unsalted butter; 5 tablespoons flour; 3 cups heavy cream; 2 teaspoons vanilla; 1/3 cup granulated sugar

This raspberry bread pudding is loaded with tart berries and topped with a rich vanilla cream sauce. An easy, decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.

This raspberry bread pudding recipe hits that sweet spot between a cozy weeknight dessert and something special enough for company. The tart raspberries cut through the rich custard, and the vanilla cream sauce ties it all together. I love that you can use frozen raspberries here, so it's an easy bread pudding any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Bread Pudding

It uses frozen raspberries, so you can make it even when fresh berries aren't in season.
The vanilla cream sauce comes together while the pudding bakes, so you're not stuck in the kitchen.
The contrast between the soft, custard-soaked bread and the bright, tart raspberries is hard to beat.

Key Ingredients for Raspberry Bread Pudding

Aged white bread, Stale bread soaks up the custard without falling apart. If you only have fresh bread, cube it and toast in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
Raspberries (fresh or frozen), Frozen work perfectly and are often more affordable. No need to thaw; just toss them with sugar and apple juice.
Heavy cream, Used in both the custard and the sauce. It gives the pudding a rich, creamy texture. Half-and-half can be substituted for a lighter version, but the pudding won't be as decadent.

Kitchen Tools for This Bread Pudding Dessert

9x13-inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Medium mixing bowl
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board for cubing bread

Tips for Making the Best Raspberry Bread Pudding

Let the bread cubes soak for the full 30 minutes, stirring every five minutes. This gives the custard time to penetrate each piece, so you don't end up with dry spots. When you layer the bread and raspberry filling, make sure the raspberry mixture is spread evenly, it's the source of that fruity burst in every bite.

For the vanilla cream sauce, stir the butter and flour mixture for about 10 minutes until it smells nutty but hasn't browned. That step cooks out the raw flour taste and gives the sauce a smooth, rich flavor. If the sauce seems too thick after boiling, you can thin it with a splash of milk, but it should coat the back of a spoon.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Vanilla Cream Sauce and Custard

When making the vanilla cream sauce, don't rush the roux. Cook the butter and flour for a full 10 minutes until it smells nutty, that's the raw flour cooking out. Add the cream slowly while whisking to prevent lumps. If the sauce separates after adding vanilla, a quick whisk over low heat usually brings it back together.

Getting the Perfect Custard Texture in Raspberry Bread Pudding

The pudding is done when the center is set but still jiggles slightly, it will continue to set as it cools. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes. This ensures a creamy custard without a dry crust.

Raspberry Bread Pudding Variations to Try

Swap the raspberries for an equal amount of blueberries, blackberries, or chopped strawberries. A mix of berries works too. For a chocolate twist, fold 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips into the bread mixture before layering.

If you want a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut cream in place of the heavy cream and a plant-based butter for the sauce. The coconut flavor pairs nicely with raspberry. For a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in the custard to 2 cups and skip the sugar in the raspberry filling, the sauce will still add sweetness.

What to Serve with Raspberry Bread Pudding

Serve this bread pudding dessert warm, with the vanilla cream sauce drizzled generously on top. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds extra richness. For a lighter touch, a dusting of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries make it look pretty.

Pair it with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk. If you're serving it after a big meal, a small portion with a side of fresh fruit salad balances the decadence.

How to Store Leftover Raspberry Bread Pudding

Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The bread pudding will continue to absorb the custard, so it gets even softer over time. If you prefer a firmer texture, reheat it before serving.

Can You Freeze Raspberry Bread Pudding?

Yes, this bread pudding freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. The vanilla cream sauce can also be frozen separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge and whisk before serving.

Best Ways to Reheat Raspberry Bread Pudding

The oven gives the best results. Place individual portions on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. The edges will crisp up slightly while the center stays soft. For a quicker option, microwave a single serving on medium power for 30-45 seconds, but the texture will be softer and less defined. If reheating the whole dish, cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out.