Blueberry Croissant Bread Pudding – Easy & Perfectly Sweet

Blueberry Croissant Bread Pudding is a rich, custardy dessert that transforms flaky croissants and juicy blueberries into a decadent treat. Infused with vanilla and a hint of orange, it’s perfect for brunch, dessert, or anytime comfort.

Back when I baked croissants daily, I’d freeze the extras and turn them into this beloved bread pudding—always a hit at my café. Now, I’m excited to share it with you!

Ingredients for Croissant Bread Pudding

• Croissants: Approximately 20 oz of large, stale croissants, cut vertically, provide the base for this delectable dessert.
• Eggs: A blend of 4 whole eggs and 4 egg yolks serves as the binding agent for the pudding.
• Dairy Components: A combination of whole milk and heavy cream, when combined, contributes to a rich and creamy custard texture.
• Sugar: To add sweetness and depth to the custard, a specific amount of sugar is used in this recipe.
• Vanilla Extract: This aromatic extract imparts a delightful fragrance and enhances the overall flavor profile of the bread pudding.
• Unsalted Butter: Used to grease the baking dish, ensuring the bread pudding doesn’t stick and adding a hint of buttery goodness.
• Orange Zest: The zest from one orange infuses a citrusy essence, complementing the sweetness and adding a refreshing twist.
• Fresh Blueberries: About a cup of fresh, washed, and dried blueberries introduces bursts of fruity sweetness to the pudding.
• Powdered Sugar: A dusting of powdered sugar on top provides a delicate and elegant finishing touch to the Croissant Bread Pudding.

You have several options when selecting the ideal bread for bread pudding. Opt for buttery bread varieties to infuse your pudding with rich and delectable flavors. However, choosing dry bread to soak up the custard effectively is crucial. This is where slightly stale bread shines. Excellent choices for bread pudding include French bread, Italian bread, challah, brioche, or croissants.

Creating the Ideal Custard for Your Croissant Bread Pudding

Achieving the perfect custard texture for your blueberry croissant bread pudding is all about striking the right balance. To do so, aim for a milk-to-eggs ratio of 50/50. You’ll infuse your custard with an irresistible richness by combining heavy cream and whole milk. To attain the desired creaminess, incorporate four whole eggs and four egg yolks. The egg whites contribute to a firm custard texture, while the yolks enhance the overall richness, resulting in a perfectly balanced and delightful dessert.

Tips for Perfect Blueberry Bread Pudding

• Balanced Custard: Achieve the ideal custard consistency by maintaining a 50/50 milk-to-eggs ratio. Combining heavy cream and whole milk creates a delightful richness while mixing four whole eggs and four egg yolks adds creaminess and richness. The egg whites contribute to a firmer custard, while the yolks intensify the creaminess, resulting in a perfectly balanced, delightful dessert.
• Baking Prep: Remember to butter or grease your baking dish before assembling your blueberry croissant bread pudding. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal after baking.
• Let It Rest: After baking, allow your bread pudding to rest for a few minutes. This brief rest period allows it to set further, making slicing and serving a breeze.
• Flavor Enhancement: Consider adding a dash of your preferred liqueur or extract to the custard mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Whether it’s a hint of Grand Marnier or a touch of vanilla extract, these additions can elevate the overall taste profile.