Irresistible Wild Berry Bread

This irresistible wild berry bread pudding drizzled with a sweet sauce is a perfect dessert for anyone looking to impress with a homey yet elegant treat. It brings together the rich custardy texture of bread pudding with the tartness of fresh berries for a vibrant finish.

I first made this one summer when berries were in abundance from the local market and it immediately became a favorite for weekend family gatherings

Ingredients

• Day old bread: Eight cups cubed like brioche or challah which soak up the custard beautifully and add richness
• Fresh mixed berries: Two cups including blueberries raspberries and strawberries for bright color and a range of tart flavors
• Eggs: Four large eggs to bind the custard and give the pudding its classic creamy texture
• Whole milk: Two cups providing creaminess essential for soaking the bread thoroughly
• Granulated sugar: Half cup to sweeten gently without overwhelming the berries
• Vanilla extract: One tablespoon which enhances the overall aroma and flavor of the pudding
• Ground cinnamon: One teaspoon for warmth and a subtle spice note
• Salt: Half teaspoon to balance sweetness and elevate flavors
• Unsalted butter: Quarter cup melted adds richness and helps the custard set with a silky finish
• Powdered sugar and extra berries: Optional for finishing touch and garnish that add freshness and a pop of color

Instructions

Searing the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit which ensures the bread pudding bakes evenly producing a golden crust

Arranging the Base:

Spread the cubed bread evenly in a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish and sprinkle the fresh wild berries uniformly on top so every bite has a bit of berry

Whisking the Custard:

In a large mixing bowl whisk the eggs milk sugar vanilla cinnamon and salt until well combined then gradually whisk in the melted butter to create a smooth custard that will soak into the bread

Soaking the Bread:

Pour the custard gently over the bread and berries press down softly with a spatula to ensure every piece of bread is saturated and let the dish rest for 15 minutes allowing the bread to absorb maximum flavor

Baking Stage:

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the custard is set firm and the top turns a beautiful golden brown

Cooling and Serving:

Allow the pudding to cool for 10 minutes to settle then dust with powdered sugar if you like and drizzle a cream or sweet sauce on top before serving for a luscious finish

I love using a mix of berries because each adds its own flair. One summer when my kids helped pick raspberries they were so proud to see them baked into this pudding that it became a tradition to make it every weekend we had fresh berries

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in the fridge and consume within three days. Bread pudding tends to get denser but warming it gently in the oven or microwave revives the custardy texture. For the best experience reheat until just warm and serve with a splash of cream or ice cream.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fresh berries frozen berries work well but be sure to thaw and drain excess juice to avoid making the pudding too wet. You can swap whole milk for half and half or cream for an even richer custard. Using a sturdy bread like French bread is possible but may alter the texture slightly versus brioche or challah.

Serving Suggestions

This bread pudding shines alone or paired with vanilla ice cream whipped cream or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. A cup of strong coffee or tea complements the sweet berries and cinnamon perfectly for an afternoon treat or dessert after a meal.

This wild berry bread pudding is a simple comforting dessert that highlights seasonal fruit. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy finish.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of bread works best?

Day-old brioche or challah provides the best texture and absorbs custard well.

→ Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh berries retain better texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid before adding.

→ How does cinnamon enhance the flavor?

Cinnamon adds warm spice notes that complement the sweetness of berries and custard base.

→ Is it possible to prepare ahead of baking?

Yes, after combining ingredients, refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking to deepen flavors.

→ What sauce pairs well with this dessert?

A simple vanilla cream or lightly sweetened glaze enhances the pudding without overpowering it.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.