Almond Peach Bread Pudding 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Almond Peach Bread Pudding combines the best of both worlds: the sweetness of fresh peaches and the rich, creamy consistency of traditional bread pudding. The raw almonds add a delightful crunch, while the sliced almonds on top give it an extra nutty touch. The caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream elevate it to a whole new level, making it an indulgent dessert for any special occasion or a cozy night in. It’s a comforting, satisfying treat that perfectly balances fruity, nutty, and creamy flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) loaf baguette, torn into 1½-inch pieces (about 8 cups)
• 3 ripe peaches, diced
• 1 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup sliced almonds
• ½ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ gallon vanilla ice cream (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Bread Pudding:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Tear the baguette into 1½-inch pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, sea salt, and eggs until smooth and well-combined.
4. Pour the milk and egg mixture over the torn bread pieces, making sure all the bread is soaked. Gently press the bread down with a spoon to help it absorb the liquid. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to ensure the bread soaks up the custard.
5. Fold in the diced peaches and chopped almonds into the bread mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed.
6. Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the top of the bread pudding for a crunchy topping.
7. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown on top and the custard has set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

To Serve:

1. Once the bread pudding is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the warm bread pudding. You can also serve the caramel sauce on the side for guests to add more if desired.
3. If you like, top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
4. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 8-10 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a baking time of 45-50 minutes.

Variations

• Fruit variations: Swap the peaches for other fruits like nectarines, plums, or berries. You can also add a mix of fruits for a more complex flavor.
• Nutty twist: Use different types of nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a different flavor profile. You can also add chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Spices: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for extra warmth and depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the portion size.

FAQs

Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding up to a day in advance. After assembling the pudding, cover it and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it the next day for a fresh, warm dessert.

Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Yes! While a baguette works well for its texture, you can use other types of bread, such as challah, brioche, or a loaf of sourdough. Just make sure the bread is a bit stale, as it will soak up the custard better.

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

You can use canned peaches in syrup, but be sure to drain them thoroughly before using them in the recipe to avoid excess liquid.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. You can also use dairy-free ice cream if desired.

Can I omit the caramel sauce?

Yes, you can skip the caramel sauce if you prefer a less sweet dessert. However, the caramel adds a nice touch of richness, so it’s highly recommended for the best flavor experience.

Can I freeze the bread pudding?

Yes, you can freeze the baked bread pudding. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

Can I add more spices to the bread pudding?

Absolutely! You can add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of ginger to the custard mixture to enhance the flavor profile.

How can I make this recipe less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute to make it less sweet. Alternatively, skip the caramel sauce or use a lower-sugar version.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread in place of regular baguette for a gluten-free version. Be sure to check the ingredients of your caramel sauce and ice cream if you’re also avoiding gluten.

How do I know when the bread pudding is done?

The bread pudding is done when it’s golden brown on top and the custard has set. Insert a knife into the center, and it should come out clean when the pudding is fully baked.

Conclusion

This Almond Peach Bread Pudding is the perfect combination of rich, creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors. With fresh peaches, crunchy almonds, and a creamy custard base, it’s an irresistible dessert that’s sure to please any crowd. Whether served with a drizzle of caramel sauce or topped with vanilla ice cream, this bread pudding is a decadent yet comforting treat that can be enjoyed year-round.

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