Fluffy bread pudding with whiskey cream and goji berries

Fluffy Brioche Pudding with Whiskey Cream and Goji Berries

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 60-70 minutes
Servings: 8

Who hasn’t been left with a bag full of brioche after the holidays and wondered how to breathe new life into those delicious leftovers? This fluffy brioche pudding with whiskey cream and goji berries is the perfect solution! Inspired by the traditional bread pudding technique but adapted to use leftover brioche, this dessert will turn any meal into a feast. Flavorful, creamy, and with an irresistible texture, this pudding is a dish that will beckon you back for another slice.

Ingredients

- 400 g thick slices of brioche or French bread
- 70 g soft butter (for greasing)
- 4-5 tablespoons apricot jam (for glazing)
- 100 g raisins
- 2 tablespoons goji berries or cranberries
- 5 large eggs (3 whole eggs + 2 egg yolks)
- 2-3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 400 ml heavy cream
- 400 ml whole milk
- 4 tablespoons whiskey cream or brandy
- 1 packet bourbon vanilla sugar
- Cream for serving (optional, flavored with a bit of whiskey cream)

Ingredient Details

Brioche is the star of this recipe, but you can also use French bread if you prefer. The soft butter will help create a fluffy texture, while the apricot jam adds a sweet layer and a touch of acidity, perfect for balancing the richness of the pudding. Raisins and goji berries are excellent options to beautify the dessert and add a pop of flavor.

A Bit of History

Pudding is a dessert that has evolved over the centuries in various forms, originating from the need to use stale bread. This modern recipe pays homage to that tradition, giving new life to leftover brioche. It’s a wonderful example of how you can transform simple ingredients into something truly special.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Pan
Start by greasing the sides of a 28 cm round cake pan with soft butter. You can use other types of baking dishes, but make sure they are deep enough to hold the pudding. Then, spread two tablespoons of apricot jam on the bottom of the pan to create a sweet and fragrant base.

2. Assembling the Pudding
Place the thick slices of brioche in the pan, spread with a thin layer of butter. Between the slices, sprinkle a handful of raisins and goji berries or cranberries. These will not only add flavor but also an interesting texture.

3. Preparing the Cream
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs (3 whole and 2 yolks) with the granulated sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color. Then, incorporate the milk, heavy cream, and whiskey cream, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth mixture.

4. Pouring the Cream
Pour the cream mixture over the brioche slices, ensuring each piece is well coated. Use your fingers to gently press down the slices so they absorb the cream well. Let the pudding sit for 20 minutes to allow the slices to soften.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pan in the oven and bake the pudding for 40-50 minutes, until it becomes golden and fluffy. Once done, let the pudding cool slightly.

6. Finishing Touches
Meanwhile, warm the remaining apricot jam with a tablespoon of water, stirring until it becomes more fluid. Use a brush to spread the glaze over the warm pudding. Allow the pudding to rest for 15 minutes before serving. During this time, the cream will firm up a bit, making the pudding even more enjoyable.

7. Serving
Serve the pudding alongside cream flavored with a bit of whiskey cream. This will add an extra touch of refinement. Each slice will be fluffy, creamy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for a festive dessert or a family meal.

Helpful Tips and Variations

- Instead of apricot jam, you can use any preferred jam, such as raspberry or mixed berry, to change up the flavor.
- Experiment with different types of dried fruits, such as dried apricots or figs, which can add an interesting note.
- If you prefer a less sweet pudding, you can reduce the amount of sugar or replace the jam with a less sweet fruit compote.
- You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use old brioche?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for using leftover brioche, just make sure it’s not too dry.

2. Can I make the pudding a day in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pudding a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Bake it a day in advance and reheat it before serving.

3. Is there a non-alcoholic alternative?
Yes, you can replace the whiskey cream with extra milk or cream, and the flavors will still be delicious.

Nutritional Benefits

This pudding offers an excellent combination of protein from the eggs and cream, carbohydrates from the brioche, and natural sugars from the fruit. Goji berries and raisins add antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making this dessert not only delicious but also nutritious.

In conclusion, this fluffy brioche pudding with whiskey cream and goji berries is a wonderful choice to transform leftover brioche into an unforgettable dessert. With its light texture and rich flavor, it is sure to become a family favorite. All that’s left is to get cooking and enjoy a dessert that beautifully blends tradition with innovation in a delicious way! Enjoy!