Brioche Bread Pudding: A Decadent Dessert Recipe You Must Try

Brioche bread pudding is a delightful dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious treat. As I take a bite of this rich, custardy dish, I am reminded of its origins in France, where it was traditionally created to avoid wasting leftover bread. This comforting dessert has since traveled the world, becoming a beloved staple in many households. The soft, buttery texture of brioche combined with the creamy custard creates a heavenly experience that is hard to resist.

People adore brioche bread pudding not only for its exquisite taste but also for its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite fruits, spices, or even a splash of liqueur, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether served warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or chilled with a scoop of ice cream, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Join me as we explore the delightful world of brioche bread pudding and discover how to create this indulgent dessert in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of brioche bread (about 12-16 ounces), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dish
• Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
• Fresh berries or whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Bread

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your bread pudding bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown. 2. While the oven is heating, take your loaf of brioche bread and cut it into 1-inch cubes. I like to use a serrated knife for this, as it makes cutting through the soft bread much easier. 3. Once you have your bread cubes, spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This will help them dry out a bit, which is essential for achieving that perfect texture in the pudding. 4. Place the baking sheet in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is slightly toasted and dry. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. You want it to be golden but not too crispy.

Making the Custard Mixture

5. In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs and whisk them together until they are well beaten. 6. Next, add in the 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. The combination of milk and cream will give your bread pudding a rich and creamy texture that is simply irresistible. 7. Now, it’s time to sweeten things up! Add in the 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk everything together until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. 8. If you’re using raisins or chocolate chips, fold them into the custard mixture at this point. This is where you can get creative! You can also add other mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit if you prefer.

Combining Bread and Custard

9. Once your bread is toasted and your custard is ready, it’s time to combine them. In a large mixing bowl, add the toasted brioche cubes. 10. Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to coat them evenly. I like to gently stir the mixture with a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure that all the bread is soaked in the custard. 11. Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the bread to absorb the custard, which is key for a moist and flavorful bread pudding.

Preparing the Baking Dish

12. While the bread is soaking, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. This will help prevent the pudding from sticking to the dish and make for easier serving.

Baking the Bread Pudding

13. After the bread has soaked, pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. 14. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. 15. Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help it set a bit more and make it easier to cut into squares.

Serving Suggestions

16. To serve, cut the bread pudding into squares and plate them up. You can dust the top with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and elegance. 17. For an extra special treat, serve the bread pudding warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a handful of fresh berries on the side. The combination of warm bread pudding with cold cream is simply divine! 18. If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and delicious breakfast

Conclusion:

In summary, this brioche bread pudding is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a rich, comforting dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The buttery, soft texture of the brioche combined with the creamy custard creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you serve it warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of fresh berries, each bite is a little piece of heaven. Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to customize it to your liking. For a twist, consider infusing the custard with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur for an adult version. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this brioche bread pudding a try and experience the joy it brings to your table. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, and any special touches you added. Let’s spread the love for this delightful dessert together! Print