White Chocolate & Cherry Bread Pudding Recipe
Overview:
This delectable White Chocolate & Cherry Bread Pudding is the perfect dessert for gatherings, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving a sweet, comforting treat. The creamy texture of the custard blends beautifully with the rich white chocolate and tart dried cherries, creating a mouthwatering combination that will leave everyone asking for more. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 30
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Half-and-half cream | 1 cup |
| Light brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| White chocolate chips | 1/2 cup |
| Dried cherries | 6 oz |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 162 |
| Total Fat | 10.3g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.1g |
| Cholesterol | 54.9mg |
| Sodium | 77.2mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15.3g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.2g |
| Sugars | 10.8g |
| Protein | 2.5g |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Baking Dish:
Begin by generously greasing a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. This ensures that the pudding doesn’t stick to the pan and bakes evenly. -
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Make the Custard Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, beat 4 eggs using a wire whisk until they are well combined and slightly frothy. Add 1 cup of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the eggs. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved completely. -
Add the Cream:
Pour in 1 cup of half-and-half cream into the egg mixture, and continue stirring to blend everything together evenly. The creamy consistency of the mixture is crucial for achieving a smooth and luscious bread pudding texture. -
Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, add 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips and 6 oz of dried cherries to 6 cups of cubed bread (preferably day-old or slightly stale). The bread should be soft but firm enough to absorb the custard without becoming mushy. -
Assemble the Bread Pudding:
Carefully pour the prepared custard mixture over the cubed bread, white chocolate chips, and dried cherries. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together, making sure that all the bread cubes are soaked in the custard. This step is essential to ensure that each bite of the bread pudding is rich and flavorful. -
Bake:
Transfer the mixture into the buttered baking dish. Place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 1 hour. During this time, the pudding will rise and develop a golden brown, slightly crispy top, while the interior remains soft and creamy. -
Cool and Serve:
Once the pudding is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-20 minutes before serving. This helps the pudding set and makes it easier to cut into squares. Serve warm, and if desired, top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding:
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Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, use a hearty, slightly stale bread, such as challah, brioche, or French bread. These types of bread soak up the custard mixture beautifully without falling apart.
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Customize with Toppings: While this recipe already incorporates white chocolate and dried cherries, feel free to experiment with other add-ins like nuts, raisins, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur for added depth of flavor.
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Make Ahead: Bread pudding can be assembled the night before and stored in the fridge. Simply bake it the next day when you’re ready to serve, making it an ideal dessert for parties or large gatherings.
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Serving Suggestions: This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of dessert wine. For an extra special touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve with a side of vanilla bean ice cream.
Keywords: Cherries, Fruit, Spring, For Large Groups, Oven, < 4 Hours
This White Chocolate & Cherry Bread Pudding is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or a spring brunch. The mix of sweet and tart cherries with the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth white chocolate makes it an irresistible dessert everyone will love. Enjoy!
