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 warmth of baked bread with the burst of fresh berries and a zesty orange-infused sauce. This fantastic dish transforms day-old bread into a creamy, comforting treat that is bound to impress your family and friends. With its luscious combination of flavors and textures, this recipe is well worth the effort to make. Follow this step-by-step guide, and let your kitchen become the sweet aroma of nostalgia!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Wild Berry Bread Pudding is a celebration of simplicity and taste. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, which makes it ideal for families and busy individuals alike. With straightforward ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll find that this dessert can be whipped up without much fuss. Its versatility allows it to be served on any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. The combination of wild berries introduces a burst of flavor that’s as vibrant as the colors of the fruits themselves, making each bite a delightful experience!

Ingredients for Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce

To create this scrumptious Wild Berry Bread Pudding, gather the following ingredients:

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread: Choose a good quality bread like brioche or challah for a rich texture.
• 1 cup mixed wild berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a colorful touch and natural sweetness.
• 4 large eggs: Vital for creating a rich custard base.
• 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess to the mixture.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Enhances the pudding’s decadent texture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dish perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Introduces a warm, aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a hint of spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Offers a slightly nutty undertone.
• Zest of 1 orange: Brightens the flavor profile.
• Butter for greasing: Ensures that the pudding comes out smoothly.
• 1/2 cup orange juice: The base for the luscious sauce.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar for orange sauce: Balances the tartness of the juice.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce.
• Zest of 1 orange for orange sauce: Enhances the freshness of the flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions for Wild Berry Bread Pudding

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter to ensure an easy release after baking.

2. Combine Bread and Berries: In a large bowl, combine the cubed day-old bread and mixed wild berries. This colorful mixture will make the pudding both visually appealing and delicious. Transfer this combined mixture to the prepared baking dish.

3. Create the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest. Pour this rich custard mixture over the bread and berries, ensuring every piece is well coated. Allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes; this soaking time is essential for optimal flavor absorption.

4. Bake It: Place the dish in the oven and bake the bread pudding for 45-50 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden brown top with a set custard beneath. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

5. Prepare the Orange Sauce: While the pudding is baking, make the orange sauce. In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, unsalted butter, cornstarch, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. The sweet-tart sauce will beautifully complement the richness of the pudding.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the bread pudding is baked to perfection, let it cool slightly. Serve warm, drizzled generously with the orange sauce. Your family will be raving about this dessert for weeks!

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Wild Berry Bread Pudding, consider trying these chef-approved secrets:

• Use Stale Bread: Day-old or stale bread works best for absorbing the custard.
• Customize Your Berries: Feel free to experiment with other berries like blackberries or even peaches during seasonal changes.
• Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add an extra layer of indulgence.
• Fresh Mint Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh mint on top elevates the presentation and flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce shines best when served warm. Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrasting creamy texture or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. Serve alongside a simple cup of coffee or a refreshing herbal tea to delight your guests as they savor each bite.

Nutritional Information

This Wild Berry Bread Pudding is comfort food at its best, with indulgence balanced by nutritious components from the berries. A serving provides a delightful treat with a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats:

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g

While it offers a delightful indulgence, moderation is key, especially if you plan to enjoy it more frequently.

Storing Tips & Variations for Wild Berry Bread Pudding

Should you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), store any uneaten Wild Berry Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert can also be frozen for up to one month. Just be sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.

For a twist, try creating a savory bread pudding by omitting the sugar and incorporating cheeses or herbs, catering to those who prefer a less sweet dish!

Conclusion for Wild Berry Bread Pudding

There’s no denying that Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce is a dessert worth making. Bursting with vibrant flavors and comforting textures, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. Don’t wait to tantalize your tastebuds—try this recipe right away!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?
   Absolutely! Fresh berries work wonderfully for this recipe. Just ensure they’re ripe for the best flavor.

2. How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
   The pudding is ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

3. Can I prepare the bread pudding ahead of time?
   Yes! You can assemble the pudding and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
   Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are vegetarian-friendly, making it a delightful choice for meat-free occasions.

5. Can I make a gluten-free version?
   Certainly! Substitute the bread with a gluten-free bread option, and you’re good to go. Just ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Indulge in this delightful Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce and create beautiful memories around the dining table!

Print Recipe

Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce

A delightful dessert combining baked bread with fresh berries and a zesty orange-infused sauce, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes mins

Cook Time50 minutes mins

Total Time1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: bread pudding, comfort food, Dessert Recipe, orange sauce, Wild Berries

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 400kcal

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread Choose a good quality bread like brioche or challah.
• 1 cup mixed wild berries Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
• 4 large eggs Vital for creating a rich custard base.
• 1 cup whole milk Adds creaminess to the mixture.
• 1 cup heavy cream Enhances the pudding's texture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the dish.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Introduces a warm flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon Adds a hint of spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Offers a slightly nutty undertone.
• 1 zest of 1 orange Brightens the flavor profile.
• butter for greasing Ensures pudding comes out smoothly.

For the Orange Sauce

• 1/2 cup orange juice Base for the sauce.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar Balances the tartness of the juice.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch Helps to thicken the sauce.
• 1 zest of 1 orange Enhances the freshness of the flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
• In a large bowl, combine the cubed day-old bread and mixed wild berries. Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Making the Custard

• In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest.
• Pour this custard mixture over the bread and berries, ensuring every piece is well coated. Allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes.

Baking

• Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.

Making the Orange Sauce

• In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, unsalted butter, cornstarch, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened.

Serving

• Once baked, let the bread pudding cool slightly. Serve warm, drizzled with the orange sauce.

Notes

Use stale bread for best absorption. Top with whipped cream or fresh mint for extra flavor.