Decadent Blueberry Bagel Bread Pudding Delight
Transform your day-old blueberry bagels into a luscious and comforting bread pudding that's perfect for dessert or as a cozy breakfast treat. This delightful pudding features fluffy, custard-soaked bagel pieces studded with bursts of fresh or frozen blueberries, all infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, complemented by zesty orange. It's a wonderful way to elevate leftover bagels and can be served warm with a drizzle of creamy custard sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike!
6-8
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
blueberry bagels
5 (torn into bite-sized pieces)
milk
2 cups
whipping cream
1/2 cup (un-whipped)
sugar
3/4 cup (adjust to taste)
unsalted butter
1/4 cup (melted)
orange zest
1 teaspoon
vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon
cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon
nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon
large eggs
3 (beaten)
blueberries
2 cups (fresh or frozen, DO NOT THAW)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (or 375°F if using a deeper baking dish).
2
Generously butter a 9x9 inch glass baking dish or prepare 8 individual ramekins by greasing them with butter.
3
In a large mixing bowl, tear the blueberry bagels into bite-sized pieces. Pour the milk and whipping cream over the bagel pieces and let them soak for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquids.
4
While the bagels are soaking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, whisk together the melted butter, beaten eggs, orange zest, vanilla, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a separate bowl until well combined.
5
Carefully fold the butter and egg mixture into the soaked bagel mixture, ensuring all bread pieces are evenly coated. Gently fold in the blueberries without thawing them if they are frozen.
6
Pour the mixture into the prepared dish or distribute it evenly among the individual ramekins. Place in the center of the preheated oven.
7
Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes for the larger dish or 30 minutes for ramekins. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
8
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with custard sauce or whipped cream.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Blueberry Bagel Bread Pudding Delight?
This is a luscious and comforting dish that transforms day-old blueberry bagels into a custard-soaked bread pudding, perfect for dessert or a cozy breakfast.
Can I use fresh bagels instead of day-old ones?
Yes, but day-old bagels are preferred because their drier texture allows them to absorb the custard mixture more effectively without becoming too mushy.
How long should I soak the bagel pieces?
The bagel pieces should soak in the milk and whipping cream mixture for about 10 minutes to ensure they are fully hydrated.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 400°F, or 375°F if you are using a deeper baking dish.
How many bagels do I need for this recipe?
This recipe requires 5 blueberry bagels torn into bite-sized pieces.
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen blueberries. If using frozen, do not thaw them before adding them to the mixture.
What type of baking dish is recommended?
A 9x9 inch glass baking dish is recommended, but you can also use 8 individual ramekins.
How do I prepare the baking dish?
Generously butter the baking dish or grease the individual ramekins with butter to prevent sticking.
What spices are used in the custard?
The custard is infused with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg.
Is there a citrus element in this bread pudding?
Yes, the recipe includes 1 teaspoon of orange zest to provide a bright, zesty contrast to the sweet blueberries.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 6 to 8 servings.
How long does the bread pudding need to bake?
Bake for 35-40 minutes for a large dish, or 30 minutes if using individual ramekins.
How do I know when the bread pudding is finished baking?
Insert a knife into the center of the dish; if it comes out clean, the bread pudding is done.
What should I serve with this dish?
It is best served warm with a drizzle of custard sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.
Can I use a different type of bagel?
While blueberry bagels are recommended for the best flavor, you could use plain or cinnamon raisin bagels as a substitute.
Do I need to whisk the eggs before adding them?
Yes, the 3 large eggs should be beaten before being combined with the other liquid ingredients.
Can I adjust the amount of sugar?
Yes, the recipe suggests 3/4 cup of sugar, but you can adjust this to your personal taste.
Should the whipping cream be whipped before adding?
No, use 1/2 cup of un-whipped whipping cream in the soaking liquid.
What size should the bagel pieces be?
Tear the bagels into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure they soak up the custard evenly.
Can I use salted butter?
The recipe calls for unsalted butter, but if you only have salted, you can use it, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
How much milk is required?
You will need 2 cups of milk for the soaking base.
Is the orange zest necessary?
While it adds a lovely flavor, you can omit it if you prefer or substitute it with lemon zest.
Can this be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the mixture and let it soak, but it is best baked fresh for the best texture.
What is the role of the vanilla extract?
The 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness and aroma of the custard.
Should I cover the dish while baking?
No, the instructions specify to bake the pudding uncovered.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts would make a great addition for extra crunch.
Can I use heavy cream instead of whipping cream?
Yes, heavy cream can be used as a direct substitute for whipping cream for a richer result.
Is this dish better served hot or cold?
It is traditionally served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I reheat this bread pudding?
Yes, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in a low-temperature oven until warmed through.