Grilled Blackberry Brioche Bread Pudding
Grilled Blackberry Brioche Bread Pudding is a rich, creamy dessert made with buttery brioche, fresh blackberries, and silky vanilla custard, then lightly grilled for a caramelized finish. The result is a crispy golden exterior with a soft, custardy center filled with juicy berries. Perfect for summer cookouts, brunches, holidays, or cozy family dinners, this dessert is simple to prepare yet impressive enough for any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 cups brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups fresh blackberries
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your grill for indirect medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C). Lightly grease a cast-iron skillet or grill-safe baking dish.
- Arrange the brioche cubes evenly in the prepared dish and scatter the fresh blackberries throughout.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, gently pressing the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
- Allow the mixture to rest for 20 minutes so the brioche fully soaks up the custard.
- Brush the top lightly with melted butter.
- Place the dish on the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid and cook for 30–35 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh blackberries and mint.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- Day-old brioche absorbs custard better than fresh bread.
- Fresh blackberries provide the best flavor and texture.
- Frozen blackberries can be used without thawing.
- Do not skip the resting time before grilling.
- Grill using indirect heat to prevent burning.
- A cast-iron skillet helps cook the pudding evenly.
- Let the pudding rest before serving for cleaner slices.
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly.