Imagine diving your spoon into a luscious dessert that captures the essence of summer in every single bite - a heavenly Instant Pot Berry Bread Pudding that's so ridiculously easy to make, you'll wonder why you've never tried it before! This magical dessert transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a dessert novice or a seasoned home chef, this recipe promises to revolutionize your summer cooking game with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups stale bread, cubed
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 cups milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the bread by cutting stale bread into 1-inch cubes. If bread is fresh, lightly toast cubes to remove moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold bread cubes into the egg mixture, allowing bread to absorb liquid for 5-10 minutes. The bread should be thoroughly soaked but not disintegrating.
- Grease a 7-inch round baking dish that fits inside the Instant Pot. Spray with non-stick cooking spray or butter the interior.
- Layer half the soaked bread cubes into the greased baking dish, then sprinkle half the mixed berries over the bread layer.
- Add remaining bread cubes and top with remaining berries, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour any remaining egg mixture over the top of the bread and berries.
- Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot inner pot, then place a trivet inside.
- Carefully lower the filled baking dish onto the trivet using a long-handled sling or aluminum foil handles.
- Close Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes.
- Once cooking completes, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release remaining pressure.
- Remove bread pudding carefully, let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with additional fresh berries, whipped cream, or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Tips
- Bread Selection is Key: Use slightly stale bread for the best texture. Day-old brioche, challah, or French bread work wonderfully and absorb the custard perfectly.
- Berry Brilliance: Mix different berries for a complex flavor profile. Fresh berries are ideal, but frozen can work in a pinch - just don't thaw them completely.
- Prevent Burning: Always use the trivet in your Instant Pot to ensure even cooking and prevent the bottom from scorching.
- Customize Your Pudding: Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or a splash of liqueur to make the recipe uniquely yours.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dessert tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance for gatherings or meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
