Budín de Pan Recipe (Bread Pudding)

There’s something special about a warm, comforting dessert that brings back memories of home. Budín de Pan, also known as bread pudding, is a beloved treat across Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and other Latin American countries.

It’s the perfect way to use leftover bread and transform it into a rich, custardy delight with hints of cinnamon, citrus zest, and vanilla. This easy bread pudding is a must-try for anyone looking for a traditional Latin American dessert.

I grew up in Puerto Rico, and Budín de Pan was always a favorite in my home. It’s the kind of dessert that reminds me of family gatherings, enjoying a slice with a cafecito in the afternoon. The best part about this dessert is that it requires simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. If you’ve never made bread pudding before, don’t worry—this detailed recipe will guide you through every step.

What Is Budín de Pan Recipe (Bread Pudding)?

Budín de Pan is a traditional Latin American dessert made from day-old bread soaked in a sweet custard mixture, then baked until golden and firm. It’s often compared to bread pudding, but the flavors and textures can vary based on the ingredients used. Some versions even add coconut milk or a caramel topping for an extra layer of sweetness.

This dessert is a fantastic way to avoid food waste by repurposing stale bread into something delicious. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, a drizzle of caramel, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Whether served warm or cold, it’s a comforting treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Ingredients To Make This Recipe

Each ingredient in Budín de Pan plays a role in making it soft, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient is important:

• Eggs – These provide structure and help create the custard-like texture.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Milk – Softens the bread and forms the custard base.
• Sandwich bread, cubed – The main ingredient, soaking up all the flavors and giving the pudding its texture.
• Vanilla extract – Brings warmth and depth to the dessert.
• Orange zest – Adds a fresh citrusy note that brightens up the flavor.
• Lemon zest – Enhances the citrus aroma and balances the sweetness.
• Cinnamon – A classic spice that gives the pudding its warm, cozy flavor.
• Raisins – Traditional in many versions, they add little bursts of sweetness throughout the pudding.

How to Make Easy Bread Pudding

Making Budín de Pan is simple, but following each step carefully will ensure a rich and flavorful dessert. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to prepare this easy bread pudding, even if you've never made it before.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even baking temperature, helping the bread pudding cook properly. While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray, then dusting it lightly with flour. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the pudding once it’s baked.

Step 2: Cube the Bread

Take your day-old sandwich bread and cut it into small cubes. The smaller the cubes, the better they will soak up the custard mixture. If your bread is fresh, you can let it sit out for a few hours or lightly toast it in the oven for about 5 minutes to dry it out slightly. This helps it absorb the liquid without becoming too mushy.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until they become smooth. Add the sugar and continue whisking until the mixture becomes slightly frothy. This helps create a light and fluffy texture in the final dish.

Now, slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to combine everything evenly. Once the mixture is smooth, add the vanilla extract, orange zest, lemon zest, and cinnamon. These ingredients add warmth, depth, and a hint of citrus that enhances the overall flavor.

Step 4: Soak the Bread

Place the cubed bread into a large mixing bowl or directly into the greased baking dish. Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure all pieces are fully soaked. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. If needed, gently press the bread down with a spoon to make sure it’s fully saturated.

Step 5: Add Raisins (Optional)

If you enjoy raisins in your bread pudding, now is the time to add them. Sprinkle them evenly throughout the mixture and gently stir to distribute them. The raisins will plump up as they bake, adding little bursts of sweetness to each bite.

Step 6: Transfer to the Baking Dish

If you mixed everything in a bowl, carefully pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spoon or spatula to spread it out evenly. You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for added flavor.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes. The pudding should be slightly firm to the touch but still soft on the inside.

Step 8: Let It Cool

Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the custard to set properly, making it easier to cut and serve.

Tips for Making Classic Bread Pudding

• Use day-old bread for the best texture. Fresh bread can become too mushy.
• Let the bread soak for at least 10 minutes before baking to fully absorb the custard.
• If you love caramel, drizzle some dulce de leche or caramel sauce on top before serving.
• Want an extra flavor twist? Try adding nutmeg, coconut milk, or a splash of rum for a more tropical taste.
• This dessert stores well! Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the microwave before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of bread for Budín de Pan?

Yes! While sandwich bread is common, you can use French bread, brioche, or even pan de agua for a richer texture.

Do I have to add raisins?

No, raisins are optional. If you don’t like them, you can skip them or substitute with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries.

Can Budín de Pan be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake it in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What can I serve with bread pudding?

It’s delicious on its own, but you can serve it with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.

Have you tried Budín de Pan? Let me know in the comments! If you enjoyed making this recipe, be sure to leave a rating and share your experience.