Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce

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Nothing says comfort quite like a warm, homemade bread pudding, and this Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce is a spectacular twist on the classic dessert. Loaded with juicy berries and drizzled with a tangy orange sauce, this recipe is a delightful balance of flavors and textures that makes each bite irresistible. It’s a dessert that’s simple enough for a weeknight treat yet elegant enough to impress guests.

Berry-Infused Bread Pudding

Traditional bread pudding gets a fruity makeover with fresh or frozen wild berries folded into every layer. The berries add bursts of sweetness and color, transforming the humble bread pudding into a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This recipe creates a custard-rich, soft bread pudding with just the right amount of firmness, while the berries add a juicy twist in every bite.

The crowning glory of this dessert is the creamy orange sauce, which infuses each bite with a zesty citrus flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the berries. The sauce is luxuriously smooth, bringing warmth and brightness that elevates the bread pudding to a whole new level. With its creamy texture and sweet tanginess, this orange sauce could easily become your new go-to topping for other desserts too.

Ingredients for Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce

For this recipe, every ingredient has been chosen to bring out the best flavors in the pudding and the sauce. From the soft bread that forms the base of the pudding to the rich cream and sweet berries, each component adds its own special touch to this warm, comforting dessert.

• Day-Old Bread – Use about 6 cups of cubed bread, preferably day-old or slightly stale to soak up the custard well. Brioche or challah are excellent choices for their rich, slightly sweet flavor and soft texture.
• Mixed Wild Berries – Approximately 1 cup of fresh or frozen wild berries such as blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries. These juicy berries add natural sweetness, color, and a hint of tartness to balance the rich custard.
• Eggs – You’ll need 4 large eggs to create the custard. Eggs help bind the pudding and give it a soft, custardy texture.
• Milk and Heavy Cream – A combination of 1 cup milk and 1 cup heavy cream creates a rich, smooth custard. The cream adds extra indulgence, but you can substitute with all milk for a lighter version if desired.
• Sugar – 1/2 cup of granulated sugar sweetens the custard without overwhelming the flavors of the bread and berries.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract gives a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the custard and brings out the sweetness in the berries.
• Ground Cinnamon – Just 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon adds a gentle spice note, giving the pudding a cozy, comforting aroma.

For the Orange Sauce

The orange sauce is what truly sets this bread pudding apart. This tangy, creamy sauce comes together quickly on the stovetop and can be served warm over the pudding for a delightful finishing touch.

• Orange Juice and Zest – 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice and 1 tablespoon of orange zest give the sauce a natural citrus flavor. The juice provides the base, while the zest adds an extra pop of tangy orange aroma.
• Sugar – 1/4 cup of sugar sweetens the sauce just enough to balance the tartness of the orange.
• Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon of cornstarch is used to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy, velvety texture that coats each bite of bread pudding beautifully.
• Butter – 2 tablespoons of butter stirred in at the end adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel to the sauce.

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How to Make Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce

This recipe is as simple as it is delicious. By soaking the bread in a rich custard and layering it with berries, then baking it to golden perfection, you’ll have a beautiful dessert that’s guaranteed to impress. Here’s how to make it:

1. Prepare the Custard – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. This custard will be poured over the bread to create a soft, creamy base for the pudding.
2. Soak the Bread – Place the cubed bread in the custard mixture and let it soak for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the liquid. This ensures a moist and custardy texture throughout.
3. Add the Berries – Gently fold the mixed berries into the soaked bread. Be careful not to over-mix to avoid crushing the berries too much. This will allow pockets of fruit to be spread evenly throughout the pudding.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish – Pour the bread and berry mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Make sure the berries are distributed throughout the pudding for even flavor in each bite.
5. Bake – Bake the pudding in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
6. Prepare the Orange Sauce – While the pudding is baking, prepare the orange sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, zest, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat and stir in the butter for a smooth finish.
7. Serve – Once the pudding is done, let it cool slightly. Drizzle warm orange sauce over each serving, or serve the sauce on the side for guests to add as they like.

How Long to Bake Wild Berry Bread Pudding

Baking times can vary depending on the thickness of your bread pudding and the type of bread you use, but generally, you’ll want to bake your Wild Berry Bread Pudding at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes. This timing allows the custard to set while still keeping the pudding soft and moist.

Here are some tips and guidelines to ensure perfectly baked bread pudding every time:

• Check for Doneness: You’ll know the bread pudding is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with a slight bit of custard clinging to it. The pudding should feel firm to the touch but still have a soft, custard-like texture in the middle.
• Avoid Overbaking: Bread pudding can dry out if overbaked, so keep an eye on it in the last few minutes. You want the top to be golden and slightly crisp, but the inside should remain moist and tender.
• Let it Cool Slightly: After baking, let the bread pudding cool for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the custard to fully set and makes it easier to serve.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Wild Berry Bread Pudding, storing it properly will help maintain its texture and flavor. Here’s how:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The pudding will firm up in the fridge but can be easily reheated for a warm, soft texture.
• Freezer: Bread pudding freezes surprisingly well! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.

Reheating Tips

To enjoy leftover bread pudding at its best, follow these reheating methods:

• Oven: Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from becoming too crisp.
• Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a portion in the microwave and heat in 20-30 second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as it can cause the custard to dry out.

Cooking Tips

• Use Slightly Stale Bread: Slightly stale bread works best for bread pudding because it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy. If your bread is fresh, try toasting it lightly in the oven before using.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter pudding, add an extra tablespoon or two of sugar to the custard. Conversely, you can reduce the sugar slightly if the berries are very sweet.
• Serve with Extra Orange Sauce: The orange sauce is a delightful complement to this bread pudding, so feel free to make a double batch if you love lots of sauce. It also goes well with other desserts, like vanilla ice cream or pound cake!

With these tips, you’ll have a perfectly baked Wild Berry Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce that’s sure to be a hit, whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or reheating leftovers for a delicious treat.

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