Name: Easy Bread Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 12 oz brioche bread; 1 cup blueberries; 1 cup raspberries; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 3 large eggs (beaten); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup whipping cream; 2 1/2 cups whole milk

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of Easy Bread Pudding wafting through the house. I still remember the first time I made it for my family on a chilly evening. The warmth from the oven seemed to radiate love, turning a simple gathering into a cozy feast. Each bite was a blend of soft, sweet, and rich flavors that brought smiles all around the table. This dish holds a special place in my heart, as it transforms leftover brioche bread into a delightful dessert that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or as a sweet treat after dinner, Easy Bread Pudding never fails to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
8 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Oven, Baking Sheet, Whisk

Why Try This Easy Bread Pudding

Here’s why Easy Bread Pudding deserves a spot in your recipe book:

Comfort in Every Bite

When I think of comfort food, Easy Bread Pudding tops the list. It’s rich yet fluffy, warm yet refreshing. Every forkful feels like a small indulgence, and it’s perfect for cold nights when you crave something sweet.

Versatile Ingredients

This recipe is a fantastic way to use stale brioche bread while incorporating your favorite fruits. Whether it’s blueberries, raspberries, or maybe even some nuts, you can customize it to fit your taste.

Effortless Preparation

Preparing Easy Bread Pudding is a breeze. You simply mix ingredients together, pour the custard over the bread, and let it soak while your oven preheats. It’s one of those dishes that looks fancy but requires minimal effort.

Perfect for Any Occasion

From holiday gatherings to casual brunches, Easy Bread Pudding fits right in. Its delightful flavors and inviting aroma make it a great choice for impressing guests or treating your loved ones.

Simple Ingredients

All you need are a few basic ingredients: brioche, milk, eggs, and some sugary goodness. It’s an affordable dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Delicious Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), Easy Bread Pudding stores beautifully in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day. A quick reheat transforms it into a comforting breakfast.

What to Gather for Easy Bread Pudding

Gathering the ingredients for Easy Bread Pudding is part of the fun. Each component plays a vital role in creating that classic, comforting flavor. The combination of brioche bread soaked in a luscious custard of milk, eggs, and cream results in a dish that’s nothing short of heavenly. The hints of sweetness from chocolate chips and berries elevate the experience, making every bite memorable.

12 oz brioche bread: The base of this dish, its fluffy texture soaks up the custard perfectly.
1 cup blueberries: These little gems add a burst of flavor and freshness.
1 cup raspberries: Tart and sweet, they complement the sweetness of the pudding.
1/2 cup chocolate chips: For a rich, melty surprise in every bite.
3 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth to the custard.
1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the dish just enough without overpowering.
1/2 cup whipping cream: Makes the custard rich and creamy.
2 1/2 cups whole milk: Provides the liquid base, ensuring a smooth texture.

How to Assemble Easy Bread Pudding

Assembling Easy Bread Pudding is where the magic happens. Let’s get to it! Here’s how to create this delightful dish step by step.

Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C) and place the rack in the center. This ensures an even bake for your bread pudding.
While the oven heats up, cut the brioche bread into 2-inch cubes. You want them to be chunky enough to hold their shape but small enough to soak in the custard.
Take a large 13 by 9-inch baking dish and start assembling the bread cubes. Layer them evenly across the dish, filling in any gaps.
Now, sprinkle the blueberries and raspberries generously between the layers of brioche cubes. As they bake, the berries will release their juices and flavor the pudding beautifully.
In a mixing bowl, combine the whipping cream, eggs, vanilla extract, sugar, and whole milk. Whisk these together until everything is smooth and well combined.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the assembled brioche and berries. Make sure every piece of bread is soaked in that luscious mix.
Let the pudding sit for about 30 minutes. This soaking time is crucial as it allows the bread to absorb all the flavors.
Once the time is up, lightly sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the pudding. This will give it a lovely chocolatey finish as it bakes.
Carefully place the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake it for about 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
After baking, let it cool slightly before serving. This lets the flavors meld and makes it easier to cut into perfect squares.

Things Worth Knowing

Soaking Time: Allowing the brioche to soak in the custard for 30 minutes gives it a rich and creamy texture.
Even Baking: Make sure to keep the oven temperature consistent for an even bake.
Serving Warm: Easy Bread Pudding is best enjoyed warm, with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of cream.
Ingredient Quality: Using high-quality ingredients like fresh berries and real cream makes a noticeable difference.

Tips and Tricks about Easy Bread Pudding

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these tips for Easy Bread Pudding will help you achieve the best results. Let’s dive into some helpful advice:

Storage: Store leftover Easy Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze baked pudding for up to two months. Wrap it tightly and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Variations: Experiment with different fruits like pears or peaches for a seasonal twist.
Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful finish.

Accompaniments for Easy Bread Pudding

Easy Bread Pudding can be paired with a variety of delightful accompaniments that enhance its flavors. Consider serving it alongside:

Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries adds a refreshing touch.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or chocolate ice cream is a classic pairing that complements the warm pudding.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce on top for that extra sweetness.
Whipped Cream: A light dollop of freshly whipped cream balances out the richness.
Fruit Compote: A simple fruit compote made with seasonal fruits can elevate the dish.
Breakfast Option: Serve during brunch with a side of crispy bacon or sausage.
Seasonal Gatherings: Ideal for holidays or family gatherings, making it versatile for any occasion.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare Easy Bread Pudding the day before serving. Just follow the instructions up to the point of baking, then cover it and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop it in the oven to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier!

If you don’t have brioche, you can use any other soft bread like challah, French bread, or even a thick sandwich bread. Just make sure it’s a bread that can soak well in the custard mixture. The texture might change slightly, but the end result will still be delicious!

You’ll know Easy Bread Pudding is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The sides should be pulling away from the dish slightly, indicating it’s set. If it’s still jiggly in the center, give it a few more minutes of baking time.

Definitely! Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can give Easy Bread Pudding a delightful crunch and added flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely and sprinkle them in along with the fruits for even distribution throughout the pudding.

Conclusion

Easy Bread Pudding is a dessert that perfectly combines comfort and flavor, making it a must-try for anyone who loves sweet treats. Its delightful mix of textures and tastes makes it a standout choice for both special occasions and everyday indulgence. I encourage you to try this recipe and bring warmth and joy to your table. You won’t regret it!