Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce

Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce

Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce is a delightful dessert that combines the goodness of fresh berries and the comforting texture of bread pudding. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or any special occasion. It’s sweet, fruity, and has a wonderful citrus kick from the orange sauce.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Wild Berry Bread Pudding is not just about enjoying a tasty treat. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread and indulge in the flavors of fresh berries. The bread pudding makes a cozy dessert that everyone will love, and the homemade orange sauce adds a zesty twist that elevates the entire dish. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.

How to Make Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp butter, softened
• 20 oz sliced bread, crusts removed and cubed
• 2 cups fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
• Zest of 1 orange (about 1 tbsp)
• 6 large eggs
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup sugar + 2 tbsp for topping
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 orange peel strip (about 1 inch)
• 1/2 tsp orange extract

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with softened butter.
2. Layer half of the cubed bread in the dish, followed by half of the fresh berries. Sprinkle the orange zest on top. Add another layer of bread cubes and the remaining berries.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1 cup of sugar, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the layered bread and berries. Let it sit for 30 to 60 minutes to soak up the flavors.
4. Drizzle the melted butter over the top and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sugar.
5. Bake uncovered for 1 hour, rotating the dish halfway through cooking. Once done, let it rest for 30 minutes before serving.
6. For the orange sauce, whisk the egg yolks and sugar in a small pot. Stir in the cream and add the orange peel. Cook over medium-low heat while stirring until the mixture thickens. Remove from the heat, mix in the orange extract, and take out the peel.
7. Serve the warm bread pudding drizzled with the orange sauce.

How to Serve Wild Berry Bread Pudding

Serve Wild Berry Bread Pudding warm straight from the oven. Drizzle each serving with the creamy orange sauce for an added burst of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Store Wild Berry Bread Pudding

To store leftovers, cover the baked bread pudding with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Wild Berry Bread Pudding

• Use stale bread for the best texture. It will soak up the egg and milk mixture better.
• Feel free to mix different kinds of berries based on your preference or what’s in season.
• Letting the bread pudding sit before baking helps develop the flavors and ensures a custardy texture.

Variation

For a chocolate twist, add chocolate chips to the layers of bread and berries. You can also substitute the orange sauce for a chocolate sauce or caramel drizzle if you prefer a richer flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding mixture the day before and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for a fresh, warm dessert.

2. Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen berries work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them slightly before adding to avoid excess moisture.

3. What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Challah, brioche, or any sturdy bread works great for bread pudding. Avoid overly soft or moist breads, as they may turn soggy.