Strawberry Cream Dream: A Decadent Bread Pudding Recipe
Bread pudding, a humble dessert born from resourceful cooks seeking to minimize waste, has undergone countless transformations throughout history. From its origins as a simple way to utilize stale bread to its current status as a sophisticated and comforting treat, bread pudding has proven its enduring appeal. Today, we’re taking this classic dessert to new heights with a vibrant and flavorful twist: Strawberry Cream Bread Pudding. Imagine the soft, custardy bread soaked in a luscious cream infused with the bright, sweet essence of fresh strawberries. This isn’t just bread pudding; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover bread, transforming it into a show-stopping dessert that’s ideal for brunch, a special occasion, or simply a cozy night in. The combination of creamy custard, sweet strawberries, and warm spices creates a comforting and unforgettable experience. The vibrant red hue of the strawberries also makes this bread pudding a visually stunning centerpiece for any table.
## Why This Strawberry Cream Bread Pudding is Special
* **Uses Simple Ingredients:** This recipe relies on readily available ingredients, making it accessible for both experienced and novice bakers.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adjust the sweetness, spices, and types of bread to suit your personal preferences.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** The bread pudding can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it perfect for entertaining.
* **Deliciously Comforting:** The combination of creamy custard, sweet strawberries, and warm bread creates a comforting and satisfying dessert.
* **Visually Appealing:** The vibrant red color of the strawberries adds a touch of elegance to this rustic dessert.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. This will ensure a smooth and efficient baking process.
* **Bread:** 8 cups of cubed stale bread (Challah, Brioche, or French bread work best).
* **Strawberries:** 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced.
* **Heavy Cream:** 2 cups heavy cream.
* **Milk:** 1 cup whole milk.
* **Eggs:** 4 large eggs.
* **Granulated Sugar:** ¾ cup granulated sugar.
* **Vanilla Extract:** 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
* **Cinnamon:** ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
* **Nutmeg:** ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg.
* **Salt:** ¼ teaspoon salt.
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the baking dish).
* **Optional Toppings:** Powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, strawberry sauce.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s begin crafting this delectable Strawberry Cream Bread Pudding. Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof baking experience.
**Step 1: Prepare the Bread**
* Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is very fresh, you can lightly toast the cubes in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to dry them out slightly. This will help them absorb the custard better.
**Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries**
* Wash and hull the strawberries. Slice them into ¼-inch thick slices. Set aside about ½ cup of the sliced strawberries for topping the bread pudding before baking.
**Step 3: Make the Custard**
* In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved.
**Step 4: Assemble the Bread Pudding**
* Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the melted butter. This will prevent the bread pudding from sticking to the dish.
* Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly.
* Scatter the sliced strawberries (except for the reserved ½ cup) over the bread cubes.
* Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and strawberries. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula or your hands to ensure it is fully submerged in the custard. This step is crucial for achieving a moist and creamy bread pudding.
* Arrange the reserved strawberry slices on top of the bread pudding in a decorative pattern.
**Step 5: Soak the Bread (Important!)**
* Let the bread pudding sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, to allow the bread to absorb the custard. This soaking time is essential for a soft and custardy texture. For an even more decadent result, you can refrigerate the assembled bread pudding for several hours or overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and the bread to become incredibly saturated.
**Step 6: Bake the Bread Pudding**
* Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will prevent the top from browning too quickly and ensure the bread pudding cooks evenly.
* Bake for 30 minutes with the foil on. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
**Step 7: Cool and Serve**
* Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to set further and prevents it from being too runny.
* Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with strawberry sauce, or top with whipped cream and fresh strawberry slices, if desired.
* Serve warm and enjoy!
## Tips and Variations for Strawberry Cream Bread Pudding Perfection
* **Bread Choice:** While Challah, Brioche, and French bread are excellent choices, you can also use croissants, Italian bread, or even stale muffins. The key is to use a bread that is slightly dry and can absorb a lot of liquid.
* **Strawberry Variation:** For a more intense strawberry flavor, consider using freeze-dried strawberries. Crush them into a powder and add them to the custard mixture. You can also use strawberry jam or preserves for a sweeter and more concentrated flavor.
* **Add-ins:** Get creative with your add-ins! Consider adding chocolate chips, white chocolate chunks, chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans), or a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
* **Spice it Up:** Experiment with different spices like cardamom, ginger, or allspice to add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
* **Alcohol Infusion:** For an adult version, add a splash of strawberry liqueur, rum, or brandy to the custard mixture.
* **Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
* **Vegan Option:** Substitute the eggs with a flaxseed egg replacement (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk and cream alternatives.
* **Gluten-Free Option:** Use gluten-free bread to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
* **Individual Servings:** For a more elegant presentation, bake the bread pudding in individual ramekins. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
* **Preventing Soggy Bread Pudding:** Ensure the bread is slightly stale before assembling the bread pudding. Soaking the bread for the appropriate amount of time is also crucial. Avoid overbaking, as this can also lead to a soggy texture.
## Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Cream Bread Pudding is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:
* **Warm with a dollop of whipped cream:** A classic pairing that never fails to impress.
* **Drizzled with strawberry sauce:** Enhance the strawberry flavor with a homemade or store-bought strawberry sauce.
* **Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream:** The cold ice cream complements the warm bread pudding perfectly.
* **Alongside a cup of coffee or tea:** A comforting combination for a cozy afternoon treat.
* **As part of a brunch spread:** A delightful addition to any brunch buffet.
* **As a dessert for a special occasion:** A crowd-pleasing dessert for birthdays, holidays, or other celebrations.
## Make-Ahead Instructions
This Strawberry Cream Bread Pudding is an excellent make-ahead dessert, making it perfect for entertaining. Here’s how to prepare it in advance:
* **Assemble the bread pudding:** Follow the recipe instructions up to the point of baking. Cover the assembled bread pudding tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
* **Baking:** When ready to bake, remove the bread pudding from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Bake as directed in the recipe.
## Storage Instructions
* **Leftovers:** Store leftover Strawberry Cream Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
* **Can I use frozen strawberries?**
While fresh strawberries are preferred, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the bread pudding. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries may release more moisture during baking, potentially affecting the texture of the bread pudding.
* **Can I reduce the amount of sugar?**
Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar to suit your taste. Start by reducing it by ¼ cup and adjust as needed. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
* **Can I use a different type of milk?**
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with other types of milk, such as 2% milk, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Keep in mind that using a lower-fat milk may result in a slightly less creamy bread pudding.
* **My bread pudding is too dry. What did I do wrong?**
Overbaking is the most common cause of dry bread pudding. Be sure to check the bread pudding frequently during the last 15 minutes of baking and remove it from the oven as soon as it is set. Using stale bread that is too dry can also contribute to a dry bread pudding. Make sure the bread is slightly dry but not rock hard.
* **My bread pudding is too soggy. What did I do wrong?**
Not soaking the bread for long enough can result in a soggy bread pudding. Be sure to allow the bread to soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, before baking. Also, avoid using bread that is too fresh, as it will absorb too much liquid and become soggy.
## Conclusion
This Strawberry Cream Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of creamy custard, sweet strawberries, and warm spices creates a comforting and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover bread or simply want to indulge in a delicious treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade Strawberry Cream Bread Pudding. Enjoy!