
Fruited Bread Pudding is a comforting, custardy dessert featuring French bread, assorted candied fruits, and a rich vanilla-infused milk mixture. The dish is soaked, baked, and served warm for a decadent finish that’s perfect for holidays or special gatherings. The candied fruit adds bursts of sweetness and vibrant color, while the egg custard sets into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Simple and elegant, this pudding is an ideal use for day-old bread and delivers nostalgic flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup assorted candied fruit (diced )
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tbsp Kirsh
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 loaf French bread (cut into 1/4-inch thick slices)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 qt milk
- 5 eggs
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Dish
- SOak the fruit with the Kirsh.
- Butter the bottom of an 8×8-inch ovenproof dish. Sprinkle with candied fruit and crushed macaroons.
Step 2: Layer Bread
- Place slices of French bread on top of the fruit and raisins.
Step 3: Make Custard Base
- In a saucepan, mix 1 cup sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, and 1 quart milk. Bring to a boil.
Step 4: Add Eggs
- In a separate bowl, beat 5 eggs. Gradually add hot milk mixture to the eggs while whisking to temper.
Step 5: Bake
- Pour the mixture over the bread. Bake in a 375°F oven for 35 minutes, or until set and lightly browned.
Tips
- Use day-old or slightly stale French bread for best texture
- Substitute brioche or challah for a richer pudding
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the custard
- Soak the bread longer for a softer, custard-heavy result
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Replace raisins with chopped dates or dried cherries
- Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard for depth
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving
Nutrition
Calories: 365kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 9gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 2gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 520IUVitamin C: 1.2mgCalcium: 145mgIron: 1.8mg
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