Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding Recipe
Introduction
This Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert perfect for cozy gatherings. It combines rich pumpkin flavor with crunchy pecans and a sweet caramel drizzle, making it a delightful fall treat.
Ingredients
- 2 Small eggs
- 5 Brioche buns
- 1 cup Whole milk
- 1/2 cup Half and half
- 1/4 cup Powdered confectioners sugar
- 2 tablespoons 100% pumpkin purée
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 42 grams Chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons Caramel sauce
- 2 tablespoons Powdered confectioners sugar (for topping)
- 28 grams Candied pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together whole milk, half and half, eggs, vanilla extract, powdered confectioners sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, chopped pecans, and pumpkin purée until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Step 2: Roughly cut the brioche buns into cubes.
- Step 3: Place the bread cubes evenly in a prepared baking dish. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the brioche, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- Step 4: Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, until the pudding is set and golden on top.
- Step 5: Let the bread pudding cool slightly. Then sprinkle with powdered sugar, drizzle caramel sauce over it, and top with candied pecans before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use day-old brioche for better absorption and texture.
- Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture for extra depth of flavor.
- Swap candied pecans for toasted walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
- For a dairy-free version, replace milk and half and half with almond or oat milk.
Storage
Store any leftover bread pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. The caramel drizzle is best added fresh before serving to maintain its texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this bread pudding a day ahead?
Yes, you can assemble the bread and custard mixture the day before and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh the next day for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have brioche buns?
Any soft, slightly sweet bread like challah or white sandwich bread works well as a substitute for brioche in this recipe.
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Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm, comforting Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding combining rich pumpkin puree, chopped pecans, and brioche bread soaked in a creamy spiced custard, baked to golden perfection and finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce and candied pecans for a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Custard Mixture
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 1/2 cup Half and Half
- 2 Small Eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 cup Powdered Confectioners Sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- 42 grams Chopped Pecans
- 2 tablespoons 100% Pumpkin Purée
Bread
- 5 Brioche Buns, roughly cut
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons Powdered Confectioners Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Caramel Sauce
- 28 grams Candied Pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix whole milk, half and half, eggs, vanilla extract, powdered confectioners sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, chopped pecans, and pumpkin purée until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Cut the brioche buns: Roughly cut the brioche buns into cubes to create a perfect texture for bread pudding.
- Assemble the pudding: Place the brioche bread cubes evenly in a prepared baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are well soaked.
- Bake the bread pudding: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the assembled bread pudding for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and garnish: Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly. Then sprinkle powdered confectioners sugar over the top, drizzle with caramel sauce, and finish by sprinkling candied pecans for added texture and sweetness.
Notes
- Use brioche for a rich and buttery texture; other soft bread can be substituted but may alter the flavor.
- Make sure the custard mixture is lump-free to ensure an even texture in the final pudding.
- Allow the pudding to cool slightly before adding toppings to prevent the powdered sugar from melting prematurely.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and half and half with plant-based alternatives.
- Serving warm enhances the flavors and provides a comforting dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pumpkin, Bread Pudding, Pecan, Dessert, Fall Recipe, Brioche, Caramel Sauce, Spiced Custard
