Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: croissant bread pudding! There’s just something magical about taking those buttery, flaky croissants and turning them into a warm, creamy, and utterly delightful treat. The way the custard soaks into the croissant pieces is nothing short of heavenly! Whenever I whip up this croissant bread pudding, my kitchen fills with the most inviting aroma, and I can barely contain my excitement as I wait for it to bake. Trust me, the first bite is always a moment of pure bliss! It’s rich, it’s comforting, and it’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself to something special. So, are you ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 6 croissants, torn into pieces
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
How to Prepare Croissant Bread Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because we want our croissant bread pudding to bake evenly and come out perfectly golden on top. So, go ahead and set it up while we prep the rest!
Step 2: Mix the Custard
In a large bowl, grab your whisk and combine the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. I love this part! Just whisk away until everything is well blended and smooth. You’ll want to make sure there are no lumps because a creamy custard is what we’re after.
Step 3: Combine Croissants and Custard
Now, it’s time to add the star of the show—your torn croissant pieces! Toss them into the custard mixture and, if you’re feeling adventurous, add those optional raisins. Give it a gentle stir to ensure every piece is coated in that luscious custard. Oh, the anticipation is building!
Step 4: Soak the Mixture
Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes. This soaking time is super important because it allows the croissants to absorb all that creamy goodness. Trust me, the longer they soak, the more flavorful and wonderful your bread pudding will turn out!
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Once you’ve let it soak, it’s time to transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Make sure you grease it well to prevent any sticking. I usually use a bit of butter or cooking spray for this step—whatever you prefer works! Pour everything in and spread it out evenly.
Step 6: Bake
Pop that dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the custard is set—no jiggles! The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly, so get ready to be tempted!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the croissant bread pudding cool slightly. This is important because it’ll be super hot straight from the oven. I recommend serving it warm, but it’s also delicious at room temperature. You can top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for that extra indulgence. Enjoy every bite of this creamy delight!
Tips for Success
Alright, my friend, if you want to elevate your croissant bread pudding game, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by!
- Use Day-Old Croissants: If you can, go for day-old croissants! They’re a bit drier, which means they’ll soak up that custard beautifully without turning mushy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers!
- Don’t Rush the Soak: That 15-minute soaking time is not just a suggestion; it’s essential! Letting the croissants soak properly ensures every bite is packed with flavor and that creamy goodness.
- Check for Doneness: When the baking time is up, gently insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, you’re golden! If not, pop it back in for a few more minutes. You want that perfect custard texture, not a runny mess.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to spice things up! Try adding a splash of orange or almond extract for a unique twist, or even some chocolate chips for a decadent surprise!
- Serve Warm: This dessert is best served warm. If it cools down, just give it a quick reheat in the oven or microwave to bring back that delightful warmth.
- Top it Off: I can’t stress enough how delicious this pudding is with toppings! Whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take it to a whole new level!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to making the most scrumptious croissant bread pudding ever. Now, go get those croissants and let’s make some magic happen!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delightful croissant bread pudding! It’s always good to know what you’re indulging in, right? Here’s a rough estimate of the typical values for one serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 6g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this gives you a pretty good idea of what to expect. Enjoying a serving of this rich and creamy dessert is totally worth it—just don’t forget to savor every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of bread?
Absolutely! While croissants are the star of this show, you can definitely switch things up. Brioche is another fantastic option, giving you that sweet, buttery flavor with a slightly different texture. Challah works great too—it’s a bit denser, which means it’ll soak up that custard beautifully. Just keep in mind that each bread will bring its own unique taste, so you might want to adjust the sweetness or spices slightly to complement whatever bread you choose!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Once your croissant bread pudding has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to reheat it gently in the oven or microwave before serving to bring back that comforting warmth. I promise it’s just as delicious the next day—if it lasts that long!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You bet! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the custard and croissants the day before, then just cover and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, and pop it in the oven. This way, you can enjoy a warm, freshly baked croissant bread pudding without the last-minute rush!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time!
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of buttery croissants and luscious custard creates an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or different dried fruits!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Prepare it the night before, and bake it fresh for a hassle-free dessert experience.
- Delicious Warm or Cold: It tastes amazing straight from the oven or chilled the next day—either way, it’s a win!
Serving Suggestions
Alright, let’s talk about how to elevate your croissant bread pudding experience! This dessert is already a star on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can take it to a whole new level. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Fresh Berries: A handful of mixed berries—like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries—adds a lovely burst of freshness and a pop of color. Plus, the tartness balances the rich custard beautifully!
- Whipped Cream: You can never go wrong with a generous dollop of homemade or store-bought whipped cream. It adds a delightful creaminess that complements the pudding perfectly.
- Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The melting ice cream on top of the warm pudding is pure magic!
- Coffee or Tea: A nice cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bread pudding. The warmth of the beverage enhances the overall cozy vibe.
- Drizzle of Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: If you’re in the mood for something extra special, a light drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce on top can add that touch of decadence. Yum!
- Toast with a Side of Custard: If you’ve got extra custard, serve a small bowl on the side for dipping or drizzling. It’s a delightful way to enhance each bite!
With these serving suggestions, you’re bound to impress your family and friends. Enjoy experimenting and finding the perfect pairing that makes your croissant bread pudding shine even brighter!
Print
Croissant Bread Pudding: 7 Irresistible Comforting Ways
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious dessert made with croissants soaked in a creamy custard.
Ingredients
- 6 croissants, torn into pieces
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add croissant pieces and raisins, if using. Stir to combine.
- Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to soak.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden and the custard is set.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Top with whipped cream or ice cream for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: croissant bread pudding, dessert, French dessert
