Easy Air Fryer Bread Pudding Recipe- Cardamom, Raspberry & Pistachio

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Air Fryer Bread Pudding Recipe – Cardamom, Raspberry & Pistachio

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this incredibly easy and delicious bread pudding recipe with you. It’s a little twist on a classic, inspired by the flavors of Indian desserts I grew up with. Honestly, it’s the perfect treat when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, using the air fryer makes it super quick!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer bread pudding is a game-changer. It’s ready in under 10 minutes, requires minimal effort, and tastes absolutely divine. The cardamom gives it a beautiful, warm aroma, while the raspberries and pistachios add a lovely freshness and crunch. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a dessert that comes together in a flash?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dreamy bread pudding:

• 3 bread slices
• 1 whole egg
• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios
• 15 raspberries
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

• Cardamom: This spice is huge in Indian desserts. It adds such a beautiful, fragrant warmth. My grandmother always used it in her kheer (rice pudding), and it instantly transports me back to her kitchen. Don’t skimp on it!
• Greek Yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt instead of cream because it adds a lovely tang and makes the pudding a little lighter. It’s a small change that makes it feel a bit healthier, too. You can use plain yogurt, but Greek yogurt will give you a thicker, richer custard.
• Pistachios: Pistachios are popular in Indian sweets, but you’ll find regional variations. Some families prefer almonds or cashews – feel free to experiment! I love the vibrant green color and delicate flavor of pistachios in this recipe.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously simple.

1. First, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the egg, Greek yogurt, and cardamom until everything is nicely combined. This is your custard base – it should be smooth and creamy.
3. Now, take each bread slice and gently press down on the center with a fork to create a little indentation. This will help hold the custard.
4. Pour the custard mixture into the indentations you just made in the bread. Don’t be shy, but also don’t overfill!
5. Top each slice with a generous scattering of raspberries and chopped pistachios.
6. Carefully place the bread slices into the air fryer basket.
7. Air fry for 5-6 minutes, or until the custard has set and the edges are golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it – air fryers can vary!
8. If you like, sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving. It adds a touch of sweetness and a pretty finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned while making this recipe:

• Don’t overfill the bread slices with custard, or it might spill over during air frying.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake this in the oven (see FAQs below!).
• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla extract to the custard.
• Using slightly stale bread works best – it absorbs the custard better.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use your favorite plant-based yogurt.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Simply use your favorite gluten-free bread! There are some really good options available now.
• Spice Level: If you really love cardamom, feel free to add a little more – up to ¾ teaspoon. My friend, Priya, loves a strong cardamom flavor, so she always adds a bit extra.
• Festival Adaptation: This would be lovely served during celebrations like Holi or Diwali! You could add a sprinkle of saffron for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

This bread pudding is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even more special:

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair it with a cup of chai (Indian tea) for the ultimate comfort treat.
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds extra sweetness.

Storage Instructions

This bread pudding is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

• Is this bread pudding best served warm or cold? Definitely warm! The custard is at its best when it’s warm and gooey.
• Can I use different berries instead of raspberries? Absolutely! Blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries would all be delicious.
• Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time? You can prepare the custard ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. But I recommend assembling and air frying the pudding just before serving for the best texture.
• What is the best type of bread to use for this recipe? Brioche or challah bread work beautifully, but any soft, slightly sweet bread will do.
• Can I bake this bread pudding in the oven instead of using an air fryer? Yes! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and set.