There’s something irresistible about the combination of soft, custardy bread and sweet, juicy blueberries in this Blueberry Bread Pudding. The warmth of cinnamon and vanilla blends beautifully, creating a comforting dessert that’s both nostalgic and indulgent.
Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or topped with a drizzle of velvety vanilla sauce, this pudding is a delightful way to end any meal. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is a perfect treat for family gatherings, special occasions, or just because you deserve something sweet.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread (such as brioche or French bread)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Powdered sugar (for garnish)
- Vanilla sauce (optional, for serving)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place the cubed bread in the baking dish and evenly distribute the blueberries over the top.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries, pressing the bread slightly to absorb the liquid.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
- Let sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with vanilla sauce if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Blueberry Bread Pudding is one of those timeless desserts that embodies warmth, comfort, and indulgence. This dish combines simple pantry staples—bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and blueberries—into a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. The result is a rich, custard-like dessert with pockets of juicy blueberries bursting in every bite.
In this article, we’ll explore the origins of bread pudding, why this particular version is the best, its health benefits, and tips for making the perfect Blueberry Bread Pudding every time.
A Brief History of Bread Pudding
Bread pudding has been around for centuries, originating in Europe as a way to use up stale bread. In the 11th and 12th centuries, frugal cooks sought ways to reduce food waste, leading to the creation of “poor man’s pudding.” Over time, bread pudding evolved into a beloved dessert worldwide, with different cultures adding their unique flavors and ingredients.
In English and American cuisine, bread pudding is often made with a rich custard base, incorporating milk, eggs, and sugar. The addition of fruits, nuts, or spices enhances its flavor. In the Southern United States, it’s commonly served with a bourbon sauce, while in France, a similar dessert called pain perdu (French toast) follows the same principle.
The Blueberry Bread Pudding variation introduces fresh or frozen blueberries, adding a burst of natural sweetness and tartness, making it a perfect summer or holiday dessert.
Why This Blueberry Bread Pudding Stands Out
1. Perfect Balance of Sweetness and Tartness
This recipe achieves a perfect harmony between sweet, custardy bread and the slight tartness of blueberries. The natural juices of the blueberries blend beautifully with the vanilla and cinnamon-spiced custard, creating a depth of flavor that is both rich and refreshing.
2. A Great Way to Use Leftover Bread
If you ever find yourself with extra bread that’s starting to go stale, this is the perfect way to use it. Brioche, French bread, or challah work best for a soft and custardy texture, while rustic sourdough or whole grain bread can add a unique chewiness and depth of flavor.
3. Easy to Make with Minimal Ingredients
Unlike some desserts that require complicated techniques or exotic ingredients, Blueberry Bread Pudding comes together with everyday pantry staples. A few simple steps—soaking the bread in custard, adding blueberries, and baking—yield a gourmet-quality dessert.
4. Customizable to Fit Any Preference
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can use different fruits, such as raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries, or enhance the richness with add-ins like white chocolate chips, nuts, or a caramel drizzle. You can also swap out dairy for plant-based alternatives like almond or coconut milk to make it dairy-free.
5. Comforting Yet Elegant
Whether you’re making this dish for a casual family dinner, a weekend brunch, or a special occasion, Blueberry Bread Pudding is both a homey comfort food and an elegant dessert. Serve it warm with vanilla sauce, a scoop of ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a stunning presentation.
Health Benefits of Blueberry Bread Pudding
While bread pudding is an indulgent treat, it also has some nutritional benefits, especially with the inclusion of blueberries.
1. Blueberries Are a Superfood
Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help fight inflammation, support heart health, and improve brain function. They are also rich in vitamins C and K, which promote a healthy immune system and strong bones.
2. Eggs Provide Protein and Essential Nutrients
Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. They also contain choline, a nutrient that supports brain function and metabolism.
3. Dairy Adds Calcium for Bone Health
The milk and cream in this recipe provide a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. If using dairy-free alternatives, choose fortified options to maintain these benefits.
4. Can Be Made with Whole-Grain Bread for More Fiber
If you want to make this dessert a bit healthier, consider using whole-grain or whole-wheat bread. These options provide more fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
Tips for Making the Best Blueberry Bread Pudding
To ensure your Blueberry Bread Pudding turns out perfectly every time, follow these key tips:
1. Use the Right Bread
For the best texture, opt for a slightly stale, sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or French bread. Softer sandwich bread can work, but it may become too mushy. If using fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours to dry out slightly.
2. Let the Bread Soak
Allowing the bread to absorb the custard mixture for at least 10-15 minutes before baking ensures a rich, creamy texture. For even better results, let it soak for up to 30 minutes.
3. Use Fresh or Frozen Blueberries
Both fresh and frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding them to the mixture to prevent excess moisture.
4. Bake Until Golden Brown
A perfectly baked bread pudding should be golden brown on top and slightly jiggly in the center. Overbaking can result in a dry texture, so keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking.
5. Serve with a Complementary Sauce
While this dish is delicious on its own, serving it with vanilla sauce, caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream elevates it to the next level. If you love citrus flavors, a lemon glaze would add a refreshing twist.
Serving Suggestions
Blueberry Bread Pudding is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in different ways:
- Breakfast or Brunch: Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
- Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Holiday Treat: This pudding makes a fantastic holiday dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the pudding in advance and refrigerate overnight. Simply bake it the next day for a stress-free dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Bread Pudding Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the pudding ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual servings for 30-60 seconds.
3. Can I Freeze Blueberry Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled pudding tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
4. Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use plant-based butter.
Final Thoughts
Blueberry Bread Pudding is the ultimate dessert that combines simplicity with indulgence. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family breakfast, a celebratory holiday meal, or just to use up some leftover bread, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its rich, custardy texture, bursts of fresh blueberries, and warm hints of vanilla and cinnamon, it’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
So next time you have some extra bread on hand, don’t let it go to waste—turn it into a delicious Blueberry Bread Pudding that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Conclusion
Blueberry Bread Pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a heartwarming treat that brings comfort, nostalgia, and incredible flavor in every bite. With its rich, custardy texture, juicy bursts of blueberries, and the warmth of vanilla and cinnamon, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it as a weekend brunch indulgence, a special holiday dessert, or a way to use up leftover bread, it’s a simple yet elegant recipe that never fails to impress.
This recipe is easy to customize, allowing you to experiment with different breads, fruits, or even sauces to make it your own. Plus, it offers a great balance of sweetness and texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of vanilla sauce, or a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate comforting dessert experience.
So next time you have some extra bread on hand, transform it into a delicious, homemade Blueberry Bread Pudding that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!