Bread Pudding With Fruit Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Name: Bread Pudding With Fruit Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 14
Ingredients: 6 cups cubed rustic bread; 3 large eggs, lightly whisked; 2 1/2 cups full-cream milk; 1 cup granulated cane sugar; 2 cups organic white sugar; 1 pound creamy butter; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into chunks; 3/4 cup bourbon or dark rum; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1 1/2 tablespoons aromatic cinnamon powder; 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; 4 ripe peaches – peeled, pitted, and sliced; 3 crisp apples – peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

Willie Regan March 1, 2025

Servings: 14 Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Bread pudding with fruit is a comforting and indulgent dessert that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its flavors and textures. A warm vanilla sauce drizzled over the pudding adds a luscious, creamy touch, while a light and airy dollop of whipped cream elevates each bite with a hint of sweetness.

Fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, provide a refreshing burst of flavor and a vibrant visual contrast. For an extra layer of decadence, a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream melts into the warm pudding, creating a rich and indulgent experience.

To balance the softness of the pudding, a nutty crumble topping with chopped pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch, making each bite more satisfying. These pairings transform bread pudding with fruit into a truly irresistible dessert.

What is Bread Pudding with Fruit?

Bread pudding is a classic dessert that transforms stale bread into something truly magical. When mixed with fruits, it becomes an even more vibrant dish. The base usually comprises cubed bread, eggs, milk, and sugar, while the addition of fruits adds moisture and flavor.

This dish has roots tracing back centuries, making use of leftover bread and ingredients in innovative ways. It’s a pair of rich flavors combining thanks to ingredients like peaches, apples, and aromatic spices. Each bite offers a blend of texture and sweetness that evokes homey warmth.

How Does It Taste?

Imagine soft, custardy bread soaked in a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, marrying beautifully with juicy fruit. The contrast between the sweet fruit and the savory depth of bread creates a delightful tapestry of flavors.

The sweetness level can be adjusted, but the enjoyment remains constant. It’s indulgent yet comforting, sweet yet sophisticated. Each spoonful transports you to a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to savor the moment.

Why You’ll Love This?

Why might this recipe become a staple in your repertoire? For many reasons!

Simplicity: With a handful of ingredients, it’s straightforward to make.
Customizable: You can swap in your favorite fruits or spices to tailor it to your taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: It stores well and can even be prepared in advance.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner with friends, it tends to enchant everyone at the table.
Nutritional Value: With fresh fruit and whole bread, you’ll enjoy a dessert that feels indulgent without being overly guilty.

Ingredients

6 cups cubed rustic bread
3 large eggs, lightly whisked
2 ½ cups full-cream milk
1 cup granulated cane sugar
2 cups organic white sugar
1 pound creamy butter
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into chunks
¾ cup bourbon or dark rum
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon sea salt
1 ½ teaspoons aromatic cinnamon powder
½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
4 ripe peaches – peeled, pitted, and sliced
3 crisp apples – peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cubing your rustic bread. The best pieces are slightly stale. If your bread is fresh, leave it out for a few hours to dry. This provides optimal structure during baking. Place the cubes into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Create the Custard Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, full-cream milk, both sugars, bourbon (or rum), vanilla extract, and salt. Combine thoroughly. Pour this liquid gold over the cubed bread. Toss gently until every piece is well coated.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Elements

Now it’s time to gently fold in the spices: cinnamon and nutmeg. The scent from this step will be heavenly. Then fold in the sliced fruits—peaches and apples—taking care not to mash them.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish with butter. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. If you want a beautiful top layer, you can sprinkle some additional sugar or cinnamon on top for a caramelized finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your dish into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set but still a little soft. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let your bread pudding rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps it to firm up a tad. Serve it warm with your favorite toppings and enjoy that nostalgic joy!

Tips on Making Bread Pudding with Fruit

Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread tends to become soggy. Day-old or slightly stale bread works best.
Experiment with Fruits: Don’t hesitate to use seasonal fruits. Berries, bananas, or even pears add lovely flavors.
Let It Soak: Allow the bread to absorb the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking for richer flavor.
Add Texture: Consider mixing in nuts or raisins for an added crunch or chewiness.
Serve with Sauces: Enhance it further with a drizzle of caramel, chocolate, or a tangy compote.

How Do You Store This Bread Pudding with Fruit?

Once cooled, leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container. It lasts in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat portions in the microwave or an oven until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing individual servings. Just be sure to wrap them well to avoid frostbite.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Bread Pudding with Fruit?

Use Leftover Croissants: Their buttery quality will create a rich flavor.
Almond Milk or Coconut Milk: If you want a dairy-free option, either of these works beautifully.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Swap out sugar for natural sweeteners if you prefer.
Seasoned Bread: Using herbed or savory bread can create a unique twist, especially for a brunch setting.
Different Spices: Experiment with cardamom or allspice for an exotic touch.

Conclusion

Bread pudding with fruit is more than a mere dessert; it’s a warm hug in a dish. It evokes memories, comforts the soul, and offers versatility that beckons creativity. I hope this recipe finds its way into your kitchen, where it can bring you just as much joy as it has brought me.

Whether you whip it up for a gathering or as a simple treat to enjoy at home, I promise it will delight. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some magic happen!

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Bread Pudding With Fruit Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Author: Willie Regan Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 20 mins

Servings: 14 Calories: 460 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Bread pudding, especially with fruit, invokes a blend of nostalgia and comfort. Growing up, I remember the wafting scents of cinnamon and baked bread creating a warm ambiance in my grandmother’s kitchen. It was a dish that celebrated whatever fruits were in season.

Today, I craved to recreate that feeling, but I wanted my own spin on it. With every step taken in the kitchen, I hoped to bring joy not only to my palate but to anyone who would share this dessert with me.