Tired of the same old desserts? Craving something comforting, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Strawberry Bread Pudding recipe is the perfect answer for those seeking a delightful treat without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a simple yet elegant dessert, ideal for a weeknight treat or a special occasion. This recipe showcases the beautiful flavor of fresh strawberries, perfectly complemented by the warm, comforting textures of bread pudding. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients:
- 6 cups cubed stale bread (challah, brioche, or white bread work best)
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Begin by gently tossing the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Let this sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices. This will create a delicious, naturally sweet sauce for your pudding.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and the remaining 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and brown sugar.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Pudding
Gently fold the cubed bread into the dry ingredient mixture until evenly coated. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, stirring gently to ensure all the bread is moistened. Don't overmix; a few dry spots are okay. Stir in the sugared strawberries.
Step 5: Bake the Pudding
Pour the bread pudding mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful homemade treat!
Cooking Tips for the Best Strawberry Bread Pudding:
- Use stale bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard better than fresh bread, resulting in a richer, more flavorful pudding.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can result in a tough pudding. Gently fold the ingredients together.
- Check for doneness: The baking time may vary depending on your oven. Start checking for doneness around the 45-minute mark.
- Make it ahead: This bread pudding can be made ahead of time and reheated.
Variations:
- Berrylicious: Substitute the strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a brighter flavor profile.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: 15-20g Protein: 8-10g Carbohydrates: 45-55g
This Strawberry Bread Pudding is a perfect example of how simple, delicious, and healthy meals can be created with homemade cooking. It’s a great quick dinner idea for a casual get-together or a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy this easy recipe and happy baking!