We’ve always been captivated by the warm, comforting flavors of Cuban bread pudding, a delightful twist on a classic dessert that hails from Cuba’s vibrant culinary heritage. This version infuses everyday ingredients with tropical notes like rum and cinnamon, turning simple bread into a mouthwatering treat.
It’s not just tasty—it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to whip up in your kitchen. We’re excited to guide you through this easy recipe, perfect for family dinners or special occasions, so you can bring a taste of Cuba to your table.
Ingredients
To create our flavorful Cuban Bread Pudding, we start by gathering high-quality ingredients that capture the essence of Cuba’s vibrant cuisine. Below, we’ve listed them in the order they’re used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Bread: 1 large loaf (about 1 pound) of day-old French or Cuban bread, cubed into 1-inch pieces—this forms the hearty base and should be slightly stale for better absorption.
- Milk: 2 cups of whole milk—warmed gently to enhance soaking and infuse flavors.
- Eggs: 4 large eggs, beaten until smooth, to bind the mixture and add richness.
- Sugar: 1 cup of granulated sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for caramelizing, providing the sweet foundation we love in traditional recipes.
- Rum: ½ cup of dark rum, such as a Cuban-style variety, for that signature tropical kick that elevates the dessert.
- Cinnamon: 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, freshly ground if possible, to add warm, aromatic notes as the mixture combines.
- Raisins: 1 cup of raisins, plumped in warm water for 10 minutes then drained, offering bursts of sweetness and texture.
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, high-quality for optimal flavor, to round out the custard-like consistency.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened for greasing the baking dish, ensuring a golden, non-stick finish.
- Optional Toppings: ½ cup of sliced almonds or coconut flakes, toasted lightly, for added crunch if you want to customize our authentic version.
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we’ve gathered our high-quality ingredients for this authentic Cuban bread pudding, let’s equip ourselves with the right tools to ensure a seamless preparation process. Having the proper equipment on hand allows us to mix, bake, and serve this comforting dessert with precision and ease.
To prepare Cuban bread pudding effectively, we recommend the following essential tools and equipment. We’ve organized them into a bulleted list for clarity, highlighting key items that play a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor:
- Large Mixing Bowl: Use this to combine eggs, milk, and other wet ingredients. Opt for a bowl with a capacity of at least 4 quarts to avoid spills during vigorous mixing.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: Essential for blending ingredients smoothly; a whisk works best for incorporating air into the egg mixture, ensuring a light and fluffy pudding.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success—include a set of dry and liquid measuring cups, plus spoons for precise portions of sugar, vanilla, and spices.
- Saucepan: Ideal for gently heating milk or creating a rum-infused syrup; choose one with a heavy bottom to prevent scorching.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish is perfect for even baking—grease it well with unsalted butter to prevent sticking and achieve that golden crust.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F for optimal results; ensure yours has an accurate thermometer for consistent baking temperatures.
- Knife or Bread Knife: Helpful for cubing day-old bread into even pieces, making it easier to soak up the flavorful liquids.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring and transferring mixtures; a heat-resistant spatula is particularly useful for scraping the saucepan.
By using these tools, we can transform simple ingredients into a warm, aromatic Cuban bread pudding that captures the essence of traditional Cuban cuisine. Always check that your equipment is clean and in good condition to maintain food safety and recipe accuracy.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through preparing our authentic Cuban bread pudding with straightforward, step-by-step instructions that bring out its rich, tropical flavors.
Prep
Before we begin, we’ll prepare our ingredients to ensure everything blends perfectly for that signature Cuban warmth. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C)—this sets the stage for even baking. In a large mixing bowl, tear or cube 8 cups of day-old French or Cuban bread into 1-inch pieces, allowing them to absorb flavors like a sponge.
Next, in a saucepan over medium heat, warm 4 cups of whole milk until it’s just steaming but not boiling—this takes about 5 minutes and helps release the creamy essence. In the same bowl as the bread, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of dark rum, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and aromatic.
Add 1 cup of raisins to the bread cubes, then pour the warm milk over them, stirring gently with a spatula to coat evenly. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes so the bread soaks up the liquid, transforming into a moist, flavorful base that hints at Cuba’s vibrant spices.
Assemble
With our ingredients prepped, we’ll now assemble the pudding to create layers of texture and taste. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ensuring every inch is coated for easy release and a golden edge.
Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle optional toppings like 1/2 cup of sliced almonds or coconut flakes on top for added crunch and a tropical twist. Press everything down lightly to compact the layers, allowing the rum and cinnamon to infuse deeply and promise a dessert that’s irresistibly fragrant and hearty.
Bake
Now it’s time to bake our Cuban bread pudding, turning it into a golden, aromatic delight. Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is beautifully browned and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean—this indicates the eggs have set for a custardy texture.
Halfway through baking at the 25-minute mark, rotate the dish for even heat distribution, letting the scents of cinnamon and rum fill your kitchen. The pudding will puff up slightly and develop a crisp exterior while staying soft inside, capturing the comforting essence of traditional Cuban cuisine.
Serve
To serve our Cuban bread pudding, let it cool in the dish for 10 to 15 minutes so it sets properly and is easier to slice—this step ensures the flavors meld for maximum enjoyment. Cut into squares and serve warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance its spicy, rum-kissed sweetness.
For an authentic touch, we recommend pairing it with a cup of strong Cuban coffee, allowing the dessert’s moist, cinnamon-spiced layers to shine and transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Havana.
Make-Ahead and Storage
As we guide you through enjoying our Cuban bread pudding, planning ahead ensures you savor its warm, rum-infused flavors without last-minute rush. Let’s break down how to prepare it in advance and store it properly to maintain that golden crust and aromatic cinnamon notes.
Make-Ahead Tips
We recommend preparing Cuban bread pudding ahead to enhance its flavors, allowing the bread to fully absorb the milk mixture for a richer, more comforting texture. Follow these steps for seamless preparation:
- Assemble in Advance: Mix the bread, milk, eggs, sugar, rum, cinnamon, raisins, and vanilla as outlined in our recipe. Grease your baking dish, add the mixture, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This resting period lets the flavors meld, resulting in a moister, more decadent pudding.
- Bake Later: When ready, remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to prevent cracking. Preheat your oven as per the recipe instructions, then bake as directed. In our experience, this method intensifies the tropical essence, making it ideal for busy family gatherings.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage keeps your Cuban bread pudding fresh and delicious, preserving its soft interior and crisp edges for days. Use these methods to extend its shelf life while retaining that authentic Cuban taste.
- Refrigerator Storage: Once cooled completely, cover the baked pudding tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through, restoring its warm, inviting aroma.
- Freezer Storage: For longer preservation, wrap individual slices or the entire dish in freezer-safe wrap, then place in a resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the pudding’s tender texture and prevent sogginess.
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3-4 days | Microwave for 30-45 seconds or oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in fridge, then reheat as above |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Cuban bread pudding recipe as it’s more than just a dessert—it’s a gateway to Cuba’s vibrant flavors and traditions. By now you’ve got all you need to whip up something special that warms the heart and delights the palate. Let’s keep the culinary adventures going; we’d love to hear how yours turned out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cuban bread pudding?
Cuban bread pudding, or “pudin de pan,” is a warm, comforting dessert that showcases Cuba’s vibrant culinary traditions. It transforms simple day-old bread into a flavorful treat using ingredients like rum, cinnamon, and raisins, creating a rich, aromatic dish perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
What ingredients are needed for Cuban bread pudding?
Key ingredients include day-old French or Cuban bread, whole milk, eggs, sugar, dark rum, ground cinnamon, raisins, vanilla extract, and butter for greasing. Optional additions like almonds or coconut flakes add texture. Use precise measurements for the best results, capturing Cuba’s tropical essence in every bite.
What tools are required to make Cuban bread pudding?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, whisk or electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, saucepan, 9×13 inch baking dish, oven, knife for cubing bread, and a spatula or wooden spoon. These essentials ensure smooth preparation and help achieve a golden, aromatic dessert safely and efficiently.
How do I prepare Cuban bread pudding?
Preheat your oven to 350°F, soak cubed bread in a milk-egg mixture with rum and spices, then bake in a greased dish for 45-50 minutes until golden. Let it cool slightly before serving, optionally with whipped cream or caramel sauce, for a taste of authentic Cuban flavor.
Can I make Cuban bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking to let flavors meld. This makes it ideal for busy schedules or events, ensuring a fresh, warm dessert when needed.
How should I store Cuban bread pudding?
Store cooled pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm to maintain its texture and aroma, making it a convenient option for leftovers.