1.  In a large mixing bowl, add the milk, sugar, eggs, lemon zest and almond extract. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined into a smooth liquid - about 5 minutes.

2.  Add the cubed panettone to the mixture. Using a spatula, fold the cubes of bread into the milk, egg and sugar mixture until all of the bread is coated.

3.  Set the mixture aside for at least 1 hour to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. You can also cover the bowl, place it in the refrigerator and let it set overnight.

 

 

 

4.  While waiting for step 3, preheat your oven to 350 degrees and position one rack in the center of the oven. You can also prepare the mixed berry sauce according to the directions below.

5.  When it is time to prepare the bread pudding for baking, line an oven safe baking dish with parchment paper, nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

6.  Add the apples to the mixing bowl with the bread pudding mixture and fold the ingredients well to combine.

7.  Transfer this mixture to the baking dish and distribute it evenly throughout the dish. Sprinkle the slivered almonds over the mixture along with the sparkling sugar.

8.  Place the baking dish on the center rack in the oven and bake for at least 50 minutes or until the bread pudding is a deep golden brown on the top.

9.  When the bread pudding is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 - 15 minutes prior to serving.

Directions the Mixed Berry Sauce

1.  In a pan over medium heat, add the frozen berries, lemon juke and sugar to the pan and stir the ingredients well to combine.

2.  Cover the pan and cook for 15 - 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the berries have broken down and the sauce is bubbly.

3.  When the sauce has finished cooking, remove the pan from the heat and let the sauce cool.

4.  If you want to remove the seeds from the sauce, strain the sauce through a fine mesh strainer.

5.  Serve the sauce warm or at room temperature.