Are you craving a dessert that's both comforting and sophisticated? Look no further than this Bread Pudding with Brioche recipe! This isn't your grandma's bread pudding (though she'd probably love it too). We're elevating this classic comfort food with the rich, buttery goodness of brioche bread, creating a decadent treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a cozy night in, a special occasion, or even a quick and delicious weeknight dessert, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s one of those easy recipes that delivers maximum flavour with minimal effort – the perfect combination for busy home cooks.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups cubed brioche bread (about 1 pound)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
- Cube the brioche bread into approximately 1-inch pieces. If using slightly stale bread, this is ideal – it will absorb the custard better. Fresh bread works too, but you might want to let it sit out for a bit to dry slightly.
Making the Custard: The Heart of the Pudding
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved. This creamy custard is the key to a moist and flavorful bread pudding.
- Gently fold in the cubed brioche, raisins (if using), and pecans/walnuts (if using) ensuring all the bread pieces are evenly coated with the custard mixture. Don’t overmix; a few dry spots are okay.
Baking and Serving Your Delicious Creation
- Pour the bread pudding mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
- Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, for an extra touch of elegance. This bread pudding is delicious served warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Bread Pudding Perfection:
- Bread choice: While brioche is recommended for its rich flavor, you can experiment with other types of bread like challah or even day-old croissants.
- Custard consistency: If you prefer a richer custard, increase the amount of heavy cream.
- Sweetness level: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking.
- Add-ins: Get creative with add-ins! Dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or even a layer of caramel sauce would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Apple Bread Pudding: Add diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, autumnal twist.
- Citrus Bread Pudding: Incorporate the zest and juice of oranges or lemons for a bright and refreshing flavor.
- Spiced Bread Pudding: Experiment with different spices like cardamom, cloves, or allspice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-22g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This Bread Pudding with Brioche recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and impressive dessert. Enjoy this easy recipe and share the joy of homemade cooking with friends and family. It's the perfect addition to any meal, a comforting treat after a long day, and a guaranteed way to impress your guests with a touch of homemade goodness. This delicious dish is sure to become one of your best recipes!