Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding

 

Ever crave a dessert that feels like a warm hug? This Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding is your answer! Silky textures mingle with the bold spices of fall, creating a dish perfect for cozy evenings or wowing guests. Inspired by comforting home-style recipes, this bread pudding will become a family favorite. Let’s explore this delicious and easy-to-make dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding

• Quick and easy to prepare, with just 15 minutes of prep time.
• Layers of comforting flavors – pumpkin, pecan, and warm spices.
• Budget-friendly – uses simple, readily available ingredients.
• Aroma fills the kitchen, promising a delightful treat.
• Rekindles cozy family memories with its comforting taste.
• Simple enough for your first time making bread pudding!
• Perfect for using up leftover bread.
• An irresistible dessert that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients Needed for Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding

Bread Pudding:

• 1 loaf (1 pound) challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (approximately 450g)
• 2 cups whole milk (480ml)
• 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (240ml) – choose a brand with no added spices.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (50g)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (10ml)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (5ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (2.5ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (1.25ml)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (50g) – Toast them lightly for enhanced flavor.

Topping:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30g)
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (50g)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (1.25ml)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed (45g) – Ensure it’s cold for the best crumbly texture.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (50g) – Consider using a mix of coarsely and finely chopped pecans.

For the spices, toast them lightly in a dry pan over low heat for a minute or two. This unlocks their aromatic oils and enhances the overall flavor of the bread pudding. Find the freshest pecans at your local farmers’ market for the best taste and texture!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding – A delightful twist with fresh apples!

Essential Equipment List

• • 9×13 inch baking dish: Essential for even baking and perfect presentation.

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• Large bowl: To mix the bread pudding custard.
• Whisk: For smoothly combining the wet ingredients.
• Pastry blender (or fingers): To cut the cold butter into the topping mixture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key for consistent results.

A good quality baking dish ensures even heat distribution, while a sturdy whisk helps create a smooth custard. No pastry blender? Use your fingers – just work quickly to keep the butter cold!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 60-65 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Difficulty: Easy

Scale this recipe up for a crowd during the holidays, or halve it for a smaller gathering. This Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding is incredibly versatile!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Get Ready to Bake

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures the bread pudding doesn’t stick and makes for easy serving.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Spread the challah bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Challah bread is ideal because it’s rich and absorbent, but brioche or even day-old French bread will work nicely too.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for a smooth and flavorful custard.

Step 4: Soak the Bread

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure the bread is thoroughly soaked. Then, sprinkle 1/2 cup of the chopped pecans over the soaked bread. Soaking the bread is crucial for a moist and tender bread pudding.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of chopped pecans.

Step 6: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the topping evenly over the bread pudding. The topping adds a delightful crunch and a touch of extra sweetness.

Step 7: Bake the Bread Pudding

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Serve warm for the best experience. This Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding is delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

CHECK OUT: Classic Bread Pudding – A simple, timeless dessert!

Tips for Success

• Don’t overbake: Overbaking leads to a dry bread pudding. Keep a close eye on it during the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Use day-old bread: Fresh bread can become too mushy. Day-old bread absorbs the custard better without falling apart.
• Toast the pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the bread pudding and topping enhances their nutty flavor.
• Don’t skip the spices: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves is essential for that warm, comforting fall flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing the bread pudding to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to slice.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the custard for an extra layer of flavor.
• Different nuts: Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans, depending on your preference.
• Dairy-free: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk and coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread and all-purpose flour for a gluten-free bread pudding.
• Add chocolate: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for a decadent twist.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Drizzle with maple syrup or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
• Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
• Serve as part of a Thanksgiving or holiday dessert spread.
• Complement it with a side of fresh berries for a balanced flavor.

This Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding is a fall feast stunner! Elevate the plating by stacking slices high and drizzling sauce artfully.

Health Benefits

Pumpkin provides Vitamin A and antioxidants. Pecans are a good source of healthy fats and fiber. Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties. This bread pudding offers a comforting treat with some nutritional benefits. Fiber aids digestion; protein fuels you. It offers some nutritional value alongside its delicious taste!

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover bread pudding in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. For freezing, portion and wrap tightly; lasts 2 months. Be sure to cool fully before sealing to prevent spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Avoid Soggy Results?

Use day-old bread and ensure you don’t add too much custard. Press the bread gently to help it absorb the liquid evenly.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Bake it just before serving.

Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?

Yes, brioche or French bread are great alternatives to challah bread.

Can I Double This Recipe?

Yes, but watch the cook time. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What If the Topping Burns Before the Bread Pudding Is Cooked?

Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the topping from burning.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 25g
• Protein: 7g

Exact stats need a nutrition calculator. Carbs: 45g from wholesome grains and sugars.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more cozy desserts? Try these fall-inspired gems!

• Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe – A rich and decadent cake perfect for pumpkin lovers.
• Apple Brownies Easy Fall Dessert – A delightful combination of apples and brownies for a simple and delicious treat.
• Classic Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping and Maple Glaze – A must-try classic pumpkin bread recipe.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding is fast, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser! Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

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