Espresso Orange Brioche Bread Pudding with Hazelnut Vanilla Sauce
Espresso Orange Brioche Bread Pudding with Hazelnut Vanilla Sauce: A Comfort Food Delight
Are you ready to elevate your dessert game? If you’re nodding your head, then this Espresso Orange Brioche Bread Pudding with Hazelnut Vanilla Sauce is your golden ticket to dessert heaven! Perfectly chewy, rich brioche combined with the bold flavors of espresso and the zest of orange creates a cozy, delicious treat that feels as special as your grandma’s hugs.
But let’s be real—sometimes we’re busy juggling work, family, and maybe even a side hustle that makes us question our sanity. This recipe is not just meticulous; it’s a stress-buster—a comforting dessert that’s easier to whip up than a date night invitation! So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Espresso Orange Brioche Bread Pudding
First off, when you think of dessert, do you picture something that looks and tastes gourmet but comes together in a blink? If yes, you’re in for a treat! This bread pudding is more than just a sweet dish; it’s a showstopper. The rich espresso infuses the warm brioche, while the citrus notes create an aromatic flash that draws everyone in. And wait until you drizzle that hazelnut vanilla sauce on top! Trust me, it’ll have your loved ones swooning as if they’ve just tasted the best coffee shop dessert—right in your cozy kitchen.
Ingredients
Let’s talk shopping list. Here’s what you’ll need for this delectable dish:
Bread Pudding
- 6 cups brioche bread, cubed
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons ground espresso or finely ground coffee
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Hazelnut Vanilla Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
Directions
Now, let’s get to that sweet magic of baking!
Step 1: Bread Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, that sweet smell will fill your home with warmth, just like a hug from your mom!
- Spread the cubed brioche on a baking sheet and toast it in the oven for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. This step allows for a crunchy exterior that’ll hold all that luscious custard.
Step 2: Custard Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, ground espresso, zest of the orange, vanilla, and salt. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and harmonious. Think of it as a treat-you-well cocktail; every ingredient has its role!
Step 3: Combine
- Once your brioche is nicely toasted, place it in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Pour that glorious custard mixture over the top, ensuring every piece of brioche is soaked. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. Use this time to tidy up your kitchen—because, let’s face it, messes can be the true enemy of serenity.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the pudding is set and a little jiggle remains—just like that guilty-pleasure dance you do when no one’s watching!
Step 5: Hazelnut Vanilla Sauce
- While the pudding is baking, let’s whip up that hazelnut vanilla sauce! In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Stir it over medium heat until melted together.
- Remove from heat and add in the vanilla extract and hazelnut spread. Whisk until completely smooth. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking a taste (or three)!
Cooking Tips
- Stale Brioche is Best: Day-old brioche works wonders here. It soaks up that custard like a champ.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble everything a day ahead! Just cover and refrigerate the soaked brioche, then pop it into the oven the next day for a fresh, warm dessert.
- Substitution is Key: If you’re low on eggs, flaxseed or applesauce can step in. Just make sure you adjust the measurements!
FAQs
Can I substitute brioche with other bread?
Absolutely! Challah or even croissants can add their own flair to this dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It warms up beautifully in the microwave.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You sure can! Just swap out the brioche for your favorite gluten-free bread to still enjoy all the delicious flavors.
It’s never too late to impress your friends and family with this amazing Espresso Orange Brioche Bread Pudding with Hazelnut Vanilla Sauce. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a Tuesday, this recipe transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. Trust me, after you make this dessert, you’ll be the one everyone calls when they want a comfort food fix.
So, are you ready to create your next kitchen masterpiece? Let’s mix, bake, and serve up some warmth and deliciousness together!
And don’t forget, while you’re exploring your culinary creativity, check out my other delightful recipes like Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies and Zesty Lemon Bars that are sure to light up your dessert table!
Espresso Orange Brioche Bread Pudding with Hazelnut Vanilla Sauce is the perfect recipe for cozy nights. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to dessert. Try it today!
Meta Description: Espresso Orange Brioche Bread Pudding is the perfect recipe for cozy nights. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to dessert. Try it today!

Espresso Orange Brioche Bread Pudding with Hazelnut Vanilla Sauce
Ingredients
Bread Pudding
- 6 cups brioche bread, cubed Stale brioche works best.
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs Can substitute with flaxseed or applesauce.
- 2 tablespoons ground espresso or finely ground coffee
- 1 each Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
Hazelnut Vanilla Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the cubed brioche on a baking sheet and toast it in the oven for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a large bowl, combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, ground espresso, zest of the orange, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
- Once toasted, place the brioche in a greased 9x13 baking dish and pour the custard mixture over it, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
Baking
- Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until set with a slight jiggle.
Hazelnut Vanilla Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar over medium heat until melted.
- Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla extract and hazelnut spread until smooth.




