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–+ servings
Fruited Bread Pudding
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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 365 kcal

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 8x8-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
Keyword baked pudding, bread pudding, comfort food, custard dessert, holiday dessert, vintage dessert
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