Description
Cozy Blueberry Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert featuring day-old brioche soaked in a cinnamon-spiced custard with fresh or frozen blueberries. Baked until golden and set, this easy American classic makes for a delightful treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Fruit
- 6 cups day-old brioche or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Custard
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional
- Powdered sugar for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Assemble bread and berries: Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the blueberries evenly over the top, distributing them well for flavor in every bite.
- Make custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine custard with bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries. Gently press down the bread cubes to help absorb the custard fully for a rich and tender pudding.
- Soak before baking: Let the pudding sit for 15 minutes at room temperature so the bread soaks up the custard thoroughly and ensures a moist texture.
- Bake the pudding: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until the center is set and the top turns golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Cool and serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and presentation, and serve warm.
Notes
- If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw before adding to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the bread pudding and making it soggy.
- For added texture and nutty flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or sliced almonds on top before baking.
- This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm cream for an extra indulgent touch.
