Brioche Bread Pudding Recipe: Comforting Dessert with Vanilla & Cinnamon

Brioche adds an extra layer of richness to bread pudding. Its buttery and slightly sweet nature enhances the overall flavor. The soft crumb of brioche absorbs the custard mix well, creating a creamy texture. French brioche, for example, intensifies the decadence. When toasted, brioche develops a slight crust that contrasts beautifully with its tender interior.

The Comfort of Bread Pudding

Bread pudding brings warmth and nostalgia. The mix of bread and custard, baked to perfection, creates a cozy dessert. With brioche, the comfort level rises significantly. The pudding’s texture becomes softer and more luxurious. Vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg, commonly used spices, infuse the dessert with familiar, homey flavors. Whether served warm with ice cream or chilled with whipped cream, brioche bread pudding consistently delivers a comforting experience.

Key Ingredients for Easy Brioche Bread Pudding

Essential Ingredients Overview

Crafting an exceptional brioche bread pudding starts with a few key ingredients. You’ll need:

• Brioche Bread: Soft, buttery texture that absorbs custard well.
• Milk and Heavy Cream: Combine for a rich, creamy custard base.
• Eggs: Act as a binder for the custard.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Infuses warmth and flavor.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Provide a cozy, spiced aroma.
• Butter: Enhances flavor and richness.

These ingredients create a custard that soaks into the brioche, adding depth and sweetness.

Choosing the Right Brioche

Selecting the best brioche is crucial to your pudding’s success. Look for:

• Freshness: Use stale brioche for better absorption.
• Quality: Select high-quality, buttery brioche from French bakeries or trusted brands.
• Size: Opt for larger loaves to get evenly sized pieces.

For an extra touch, toast the brioche before soaking to create a delightful texture contrast.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Easy Brioche Bread Pudding

Preparing the Brioche

Begin by slicing the brioche into 1-inch cubes. Ensure each piece is uniform to guarantee even baking. For a delightful texture contrast, toast the brioche cubes in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until golden brown. Let the toasted cubes cool while you prepare the custard mixture.

Custard Mixture Basics

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of milk, 2 cups of heavy cream, 4 large eggs, and ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg for added flavor. Pour the custard mixture over the cooled brioche cubes, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Let the mixture sit for 20 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid fully.

Baking and Final Touches

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Transfer the brioche-custard mixture to the dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting treat.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Best Practices for Serving

Serve brioche bread pudding warm to enjoy its soft, custard-soaked texture. Use a sharp knife to cut clean squares or portions. For an added touch, dust with powdered sugar before plating. Serve with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This contrast in temperatures further enhances the dessert’s appeal.

Pairing Ideas for Enhanced Flavors

Complement brioche bread pudding with fresh fruits or compotes. Berries (strawberries, blueberries) and stone fruits (peaches, plums) work well. For a sophisticated touch, pair with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. Serve alongside hot beverages like coffee or tea. For a more indulgent experience, consider dessert wines such as Sauternes or a rich port.

Conclusion

Brioche bread pudding offers a delightful blend of comfort and sophistication. By toasting the brioche and preparing a flavorful custard, you create a dessert that’s both rich and versatile. Whether you serve it warm with whipped cream or pair it with fresh fruits and dessert wines, this dish is sure to impress. Embrace the luxury of brioche bread pudding and enjoy the perfect ending to any meal.