Blueberry bread pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of warm bread and the sweet, tangy taste of blueberries. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual dinners. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious blueberry bread pudding that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 cups of cubed day-old bread (preferably French or Italian bread)
- 2 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 2: Add the Blueberries
- Sprinkle the blueberries evenly over the cubed bread in the baking dish.
- Gently mix the bread and blueberries to distribute them evenly.
Step 3: Make the Custard
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries in the baking dish.
- Gently press down on the bread cubes to ensure they are soaked in the custard mixture.
Step 4: Let It Sit
- Allow the bread pudding mixture to sit for about 15-20 minutes. This gives the bread time to absorb the custard.
Step 5: Bake the Bread Pudding
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread pudding.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once baked, remove the blueberry bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
FAQs
1. Can I use stale bread for blueberry bread pudding?
Yes, using stale or day-old bread is ideal for bread pudding as it absorbs the custard better, resulting in a richer and more flavorful dessert.
2. Can I substitute frozen blueberries for fresh ones?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh ones. There’s no need to thaw them before adding them to the bread pudding.
3. How do I store leftover blueberry bread pudding?
Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
4. Can I make blueberry bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding the night before and refrigerate it. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
5. What other fruits can I use in this bread pudding recipe?
You can substitute blueberries with other fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, or a mix of berries. Diced apples, peaches, or even chocolate chips can also be added for variety.
