Linda CainA warm, indulgent bread pudding, straight from the oven, drizzled with a rich raspberry sauce. Now, visualize it placed perfectly next to a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the warm and cold creates a delightful experience.
If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream adds an extra layer of creaminess. Those raspberry and chocolate flavors dance beautifully together, inviting you to take a bite.
Growing up, desserts were always the grand finale. They turned a meal into a celebration. One of my absolute favorites is the legendary Neiman Marcus bread pudding. This dish is a rich cocktail of flavors that embraces you like a favorite sweater on a chilly evening. Crafted from brioche bread and white chocolate, it has a sweetness that hits just right.
You might have heard of the infamous Neiman Marcus bread pudding, but did you know the story behind it? This recipe has some serious legacy.
Let’s dive deeper into this culinary masterpiece. By exploring its charms and understandings, we can all agree it deserves a spot on your table.
What is Neiman Marcus Bread Pudding?
At its core, Neiman Marcus bread pudding is an opulent twist on a classic dessert. Originating from the luxurious Neiman Marcus department store, it’s known for its rich, custardy texture and decadent flavors. The base is made with indulgent brioche bread and a generous helping of white chocolate.
While some shallower puddings can feel like breakfast leftovers, this one? It stands up to its name. It’s a dessert that sings of richness.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Neiman Marcus Bread Pudding?
You might be wondering, what sets this recipe apart? First off, its signature white chocolate sauce is a sweet revelation. Many bread puddings offer a cinnamon and nutmeg profile, but this one? It dances with luxury. The blend of heavy cream, eggs, and the renowned brioche lends an airy, indulgent vibe to the dish.
Moreover, we finish it off with a vibrant raspberry sauce that cuts through the sweetness, balancing this delightful dessert. Trust me, after tasting it, other bread puddings might feel jealous.
How Does It Taste Like?
The first bite is sheer delight. Think soft and creamy interior with bright notes from the raspberry sauce. The richness of the white chocolate brings a velvety texture. You won’t just taste the ingredients; you’ll experience harmony on your palate. It’s sweet but not cloying, and every mouthful reveals layers of flavor that surprise and delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish:
Let’s gather what we need to whip up this spectacular dessert. Here’s your shopping list:
White Chocolate Sauce:
- 1 3/4 pounds day-old brioche bread, cubed
- 3 large eggs
- 9 egg yolks
- 1 quart heavy whipping cream
- 1 quart rich cream
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 12 oz white chocolate, chopped into chunks
- 24 oz white chocolate, chopped
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Raspberry Sauce:
- 1 quart filtered water
- 2 1/2 pounds frozen raspberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup raspberry liqueur
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take all that glorious brioche bread and cube it into small pieces. Spread those cubed pieces in a large buttered casserole dish. This basic step lays the foundation for your pudding.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, heavy cream, rich cream, milk, and sugar. Add in the chopped white chocolate, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Whisk vigorously until the mix is creamy and combined.
The white chocolate may not melt completely at this point, and that’s okay. You’ll get there.
Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour that luscious custard over the bread cubes. Don’t hesitate to give it a gentle toss. You want every piece of bread to soak up that custard goodness. Let it stand for at least 30 minutes. Ideally, you would let it sit overnight in the refrigerator. This patience pays off!
Step 4: Bake
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 45-55 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until it’s puffed and golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s just set in the middle.
Step 5: Make Raspberry Sauce
While the pudding is baking, combine filtered water, frozen raspberries, sugar, lemon juice, and raspberry liqueur in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Strain through a fine mesh to remove seeds, and let it cool down.
Step 6: Serve
Once the bread pudding is finished, let it cool slightly. Cut into squares and serve warm with a generous drizzle of raspberry sauce. A dollop of whipped cream is optional but, honestly, who am I kidding? It’s a necessity at this stage.
Tips & Tricks On Making Neiman Marcus Bread Pudding
Here are my top five tips that can elevate your bread pudding game:
- Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread can get too mushy. Day-old brioche is firmer and absorbs the custard without collapsing.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the mixture to soak overnight ensures every bite is custardy perfection.
- Experiment with Chocolates: While white chocolate is traditional, adding in a swirl of dark chocolate can create a beautiful dance of flavors.
- Add Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can add depth without overpowering the classic flavor profile.
- Serve With Fresh Berries: Besides the raspberry sauce, fresh berries add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Nutrition Information
neiman marcus bread pudding recipe nutrition facts
How Do I Store This Dish?
If you have leftovers (a big if, I know), here’s how to keep them safe. Let the pudding cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it into airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, stick it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Crisping the top for a few minutes can make it feel fresh again.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Neiman Marcus Bread Pudding?
Wondering about alternatives? Here are five suggestions to switch up your ingredients:
- Challah Bread: A rich, eggy bread that mirrors brioche in depth and flavor. It works beautifully in this recipe for an equally indulgent experience.
- Almond Milk: If you need a dairy-free option, almond milk can replace whole milk. The flavor will differ, but it’s a great alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
- Dark Chocolate: Swapping in dark chocolate can provide a richer flavor. It’ll contrast beautifully with the sweet sauce.
- Maple Syrup: Substituting part of the granulated sugar with maple syrup adds a unique flavor twist.
- Fresh Berries: Using fresh raspberries or other berries in the custard can give bursts of flavor in every bite.
Neiman Marcus Bread Pudding Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Large bowl
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 pounds day-old brioche bread cubed
- 3 large eggs
- 9 egg yolks
- 1 quart heavy whipping cream
- 1 quart rich cream
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 12 oz white chocolate chopped into chunks
- 24 oz white chocolate chopped
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- Raspberry Sauce:
- 1 quart filtered water
- 2 1/2 pounds frozen raspberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup raspberry liqueur
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take all that glorious brioche bread and cube it into small pieces. Spread those cubed pieces in a large buttered casserole dish. This basic step lays the foundation for your pudding.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, heavy cream, rich cream, milk, and sugar. Add in the chopped white chocolate, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Whisk vigorously until the mix is creamy and combined.
- The white chocolate may not melt completely at this point, and that’s okay. You’ll get there.
- Pour that luscious custard over the bread cubes. Don’t hesitate to give it a gentle toss. You want every piece of bread to soak up that custard goodness. Let it stand for at least 30 minutes. Ideally, you would let it sit overnight in the refrigerator. This patience pays off!
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 45-55 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until it’s puffed and golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s just set in the middle.
- While the pudding is baking, combine filtered water, frozen raspberries, sugar, lemon juice, and raspberry liqueur in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Strain through a fine mesh to remove seeds, and let it cool down.
- Once the bread pudding is finished, let it cool slightly. Cut into squares and serve warm with a generous drizzle of raspberry sauce. A dollop of whipped cream is optional but, honestly, who am I kidding? It’s a necessity at this stage.
Notes
- Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread can get too mushy. Day-old brioche is firmer and absorbs the custard without collapsing.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the mixture to soak overnight ensures every bite is custardy perfection.
- Experiment with Chocolates: While white chocolate is traditional, adding in a swirl of dark chocolate can create a beautiful dance of flavors.
- Add Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can add depth without overpowering the classic flavor profile.
- Serve With Fresh Berries: Besides the raspberry sauce, fresh berries add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Neiman Marcus bread pudding is more than a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its silky texture and sweet, buttery richness, it creates memories worth savoring. Whether enjoyed alone after a long day or shared among friends at a gathering, it brings joy. So, dive into your kitchen and create this remarkable dish.
You’ll soon understand why it stands the test of time and becomes a star in your dessert repertoire. Make sure you have enough raspberry sauce on hand—because it deserves a generous drizzle!
