Strawberry Bread Pudding

Strawberry Bread Pudding is a creamy, custard-soaked dessert that’s studded with juicy strawberry chunks and baked to perfection. This easy yet elegant dessert offers bursts of sweet berry flavor in every bite, making it a perfect addition to any brunch spread or a comforting treat for a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry bread pudding is the ultimate combination of creamy custard and soft, buttery bread, all enhanced by the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries. It’s simple to prepare, making it an excellent option for both a last-minute dessert or a special weekend treat. The balance of textures—the tender bread, the smooth custard, and the burst of berries—makes each bite truly indulgent. Whether served warm or chilled, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the bread pudding:
brioche or challah bread (day-old preferred), cubed
whole milk
heavy cream
granulated sugar
large eggs
vanilla extract
ground cinnamon (optional)
fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until fully combined.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture and gently stir to coat the bread. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard mixture.
4. Gently fold in half of the chopped strawberries.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Sprinkle the remaining strawberries evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden.
8. Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9 squares
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per square

Variations

• Berry Blend: Swap or add other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry version.
• Caramel Twist: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the bread pudding before serving for a rich, sweet flavor.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the custard for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Chocolate Addition: Fold in some chocolate chips or chopped chocolate for an indulgent twist.

Storage and reheating

Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. To reheat, simply microwave for 20-30 seconds or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread?

Yes! You can use any type of sturdy bread, like challah, brioche, or even French bread. Day-old bread works best as it soaks up the custard without becoming too soggy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it the next day when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used in place of fresh strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess liquid in the pudding.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. Just be sure to check the other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

To make this bread pudding dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk.

Conclusion

Strawberry Bread Pudding is the perfect comfort food, offering the richness of custard and the sweetness of fresh strawberries in every bite. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to please everyone at your table. Whether for brunch, a special dessert, or just a cozy treat, this delightful dish is bound to become a favorite.

Print