As I found myself in the kitchen one lazy afternoon, I stumbled upon a craving that beckoned for something sweet, warm, and comforting. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Cherry Almond Bread Pudding. This dish is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly magical. The rich aroma of baking bread mingled with the sweet scent of cherries filled my home, instantly lifting my spirits. Each bite is a warm hug, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
8g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
15g g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Blender, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

The Beauty of This Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

1. Nostalgic Comfort

The first reason I adore Cherry Almond Bread Pudding is its ability to evoke memories. Growing up, my family loved gathering around the table for dessert, and bread pudding was always a favorite. It’s a dish that brings nostalgia and warmth, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones.

2. Versatile Ingredients

This recipe boasts ingredients that pair beautifully together. The sweetness of fresh cherries, combined with the nutty flavor of almond extract, creates a delicious harmony. You can use different types of bread or fruits, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

3. Easy to Prepare

I love that Cherry Almond Bread Pudding is incredibly simple to make. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip this up. With just a few steps, you mix, soak, and bake, turning humble ingredients into a delightful dessert.

4. Perfect for Any Season

No matter the time of year, this dish fits the bill. In summer, the fresh cherries shine, while in winter, you can use frozen ones. It adapts beautifully, making it a year-round favorite.

5. Serve it Warm

There’s something special about serving Cherry Almond Bread Pudding warm, fresh from the oven. Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream, it becomes an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Ingredient List for Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

When it comes to Cherry Almond Bread Pudding, the ingredients are what make this dish exceptional. Each component plays an important role in bringing texture and flavor to the table. The star players, such as fresh cherries and almond extract, create a unique combination that’s both comforting and indulgent.

6 large eggs (300 grams), room temperature: Essential for creating a rich custard base, providing both structure and creaminess.
2 cups (480 grams) heavy whipping cream: This adds a luxurious texture and depth of flavor.
¾ cup (150 grams) plus 2 tablespoons (24 grams) granulated sugar, divided: Sweetens the pudding and creates a lovely caramelized top.
½ cup (120 grams) whole milk: Contributes to the overall creaminess of the pudding.
1 teaspoon (4 grams) vanilla extract: Adds a warm and inviting flavor.
½ teaspoon (1.5 grams) kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
½ teaspoon (2 grams) almond extract: Infuses the pudding with a delightful nutty undertone.
12 ounces (340 grams) day-old brioche bread, cut into ½-inch cubes (about 8 cups): The bread forms the base, soaking up the custard and creating a wonderful texture.
2 cups (280 grams) fresh cherries, pitted and halved: The juicy fruit brings brightness and sweetness to the dish.
½ cup (56 grams) sliced almonds, divided: Adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor contrast to the pudding.
Fresh Cherry Sauce (recipe follows): A perfect accompaniment to drizzle over the warm pudding.

Recipe Directions for Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

Making Cherry Almond Bread Pudding is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this comforting dessert that will surely impress your friends and family.

Lightly spray a 2 to 2½-quart ceramic baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures your pudding comes out perfectly.
In a medium bowl, whisk eggs until blended. Next, add cream, ¾ cup of the sugar, and milk, whisking until smooth. Incorporate vanilla, salt, and almond extract to infuse your custard with rich flavors.
In a large bowl, toss together the bread cubes, cherries, and ¼ cup of almonds. This mixture will soak up the custard, so make sure it’s evenly combined.
Sprinkle the mixture in an even layer in the prepared pan. Then, pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture, ensuring everything is well coated.
Cover and let it stand for at least 20 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard. Alternatively, you can cover and refrigerate it for up to 8 hours for a more profound flavor.
While your pudding is soaking, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is crucial to get that golden crust.
Once soaked, sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of almonds and the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar over the top of the pudding. This creates a lovely crunchy topping.
Bake until puffed and golden, about 45 to 50 minutes. The custard should be set and the top beautifully browned. Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid over-browning.
Once baked, let it cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. This cooling time allows the pudding to set further.
Serve warm with the Fresh Cherry Sauce drizzled over the top. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Day-Old Bread: Using day-old brioche bread is key. Fresh bread may turn mushy, while stale bread absorbs the custard perfectly.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate before baking.
Serving Temperature: Cherry Almond Bread Pudding is best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature as well.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Change It Up

There are numerous ways to personalize Cherry Almond Bread Pudding to suit your taste. You can get creative with flavors and toppings!

Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits like blueberries or peaches for a unique twist.
Nut Substitutes: If you prefer a different nut, feel free to use walnuts or pecans instead of almonds.
Spice It Up: Adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Ice Cream Pairing: Serve with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.
Serving Ideas: Consider serving this dish as a breakfast option, topped with yogurt and fresh fruit.
Portion Control: You can also make individual servings in ramekins for a charming presentation.

What to Pair With Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

Pairing Cherry Almond Bread Pudding with the right accompaniments can enhance your overall dining experience. Here are a few ideas:

Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea complements this dessert beautifully, balancing its sweetness.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or almond-flavored ice cream pairs perfectly, adding creaminess and richness.
Seasonal Fruits: Fresh fruits such as strawberries or raspberries work well to add a fresh element to each bite.
Nutty Crumbles: Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted almonds or granola on top for crunch.
Brunch Delight: This pudding makes a great dish for brunch. Serve it alongside a fruit salad and quiche for a delightful spread.
Festive Occasions: It’s a splendid choice for holiday gatherings, especially when topped with festive sauces.

FAQ

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work wonderfully in this recipe, especially if they are thawed and drained. They may even make this dessert easier to prepare, as you can have them on hand year-round. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time if necessary, as thawed cherries might release more moisture than fresh ones.

Leftovers of Cherry Almond Bread Pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave. Enjoy it warm for the best taste!

Yes, you can prepare Cherry Almond Bread Pudding a day in advance. Just follow the steps up to the baking part, cover it well, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake it fresh from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes it perfect for entertaining without the last-minute rush!

Consider pairing your Cherry Almond Bread Pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries also make excellent accompaniments. For a brunch, serve it alongside coffee or tea for a delightful treat!

Conclusion

Cherry Almond Bread Pudding is not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with flavors that bring comfort and joy. The rich custard paired with juicy cherries and a hint of almond creates a perfect harmony that calls for seconds. I encourage you to bring this recipe to your kitchen and share it with loved ones. It’s a delicious way to create beautiful memories around the table!