The love and gratitude I feel from this past weekend is still washing over me, settling into my consciousness in waves. They nicknamed themselves the Core. What they represent is my past, present, and future. They’re a group of women who have held my hand through triumphs and tragedy. They cheer me on, and are able to see a side of me that’s invisible to myself. The strength and beauty of their love is what buoys me to safe shores when I’m not sure of myself. Their laughter is electric, and ignites a smile deep within. And for that, I’m both humbled and eternally thankful.
This is 40.
Really.
Four decades wiser. Four decades richer in love, and friendship. Bring it on.
I went a little croissant crazy at the French shop up the block last Friday, as we began a weekend of birthday celebrations. Determined to not have day-old croissants go to waste, I turned the leftovers into a breakfast bread pudding for us all to enjoy. It was no doubt decadent, and definitely not an everyday meal. What I love most about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy, yet elegant. I sprinkled some fresh raspberries on top before baking, and have since made it with little dollops of raspberry jam scattered in their place. Frozen wild blueberries would be great too, I imagine.
Raspberry Croissant Bread Pudding
Serves 6 to 8
Music Pairing: Stand by Me by Ben E. King
Four (239 grams) day-old croissants, cut into 1/2-thick slices
2 large eggs
1 cup (250 ml) milk
2 tablespoons (25 grams) granulated natural cane sugar
Handful of fresh raspberries, or 1/4 cup (68 grams) raspberry jam
Coat the bottom an sides of an 8-inch square pan with butter or cooking spray. Arrange the cut croissant slices in the pan.
In a medium bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Whisk in the milk and sugar. Pour the egg mixture over the croissant slices. Use a rubber spatula, to press down the croissants, and absorb the liquid. Sprinkle the raspberries on top (or drop the jam in dollops), and cover with aluminum foil. Place in the fridge, and let sit overnight.
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350F. Meanwhile remove the pan from the fridge so it can come to room temperature while the oven is heating. Bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, and bake for 20 minutes more, until puffy and golden.
Serve warm, with maple syrup if eating for breakfast. I’m betting this would be a great not-too-sweet dessert, as well, served with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
20 Comments
Mardi (eat. live. travel. write.)
Jennie I didn’t realise it was your birthday! Happy 40th. Wishing you much love, success and happiness in this new decade! And hopefully a lot of bread pudding that looks like this – it’s really the only way I like bread pudding (with croissants!)
Patti
Happy Birthday. I hope you have a lovely day!
Amy @ The Nifty Foodie
This sounds so perfect right now!
Happy Birthday. 🙂
Jenna
This looks wonderful! Have a fabulous birthday!!
luisa
This is my first time writing….I never knew what to say to you in the past that didn’t seem so simple. I don’t know you personally but I have cried, laughed, held you in my thoughts, shared your story and cant wait to experience more with you. Now your 40th…that I know what to say ..HAVE A GREAT BIRTHDAY and never stop celebrating!!!!! Love Luisaxx
SuperCutePetContest
I wish you the happiest of birthdays. It’s amazing how have a core of TRUE friends really makes your world a better place.
Jill W
Hi Deb. This is kind of off topic, but the last few times I’ve tried to PIN your recipes, it says the image isn’t the right URL format (or something like that). I believe I used to be able to pin your recipes, and I haven’t had this problem with other recipe blogs, so I just thought I’d mention it. I love your recipes and am enjoying your cookbook. I think this recipe would be wonderful (and easy) for Christmas morning! And Happy Birthday!
See AlsoButtermilch-Limetten-CremeJill W
Oops!!! I meant to say “Jenni!” 🙂
Deborah
Best Wishes for a Wonderful Birthday. Glad that you are surrounded by people you love and who love you back. Check this out and imagine Sir Paul is singing to you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMBC9Ji1WJY
Genny
Have a wonderful birthday!
Jenna B
Happy Happy Happy Birthday!! 🙂
Jennifer Perillo
Hi Jill,
Thanks for letting me know. I’m able to pin my posts, so not sure what the problem may be exactly.
JPMama'smama
It was the bestest weekend ever! The look on your face as everyone was devouring the meal you prepared was priceless. Was honored to share it with you . Luv u bunches XOXO
SuzyMcQ
Best wishes now and always.
Nancy Shampo
I hope you are having a joyous and blessed birthday!
sara
YUM. This looks amazing!!!
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Rocky Mountain Woman
What a beautiful way to celebrate!
dervla
happy birthday, Jennie!! Bread pudding is the best.
Wendy
I made this for Christmas morning brunch and everyone loved it! I added a little cinnamon and vanilla to the milk/egg mixture and it was delicious
