Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe for Easy Fall Dessert

Introduction

As the leaves change colors and the air grows crisper, our taste buds start to crave the warm, comforting flavors of fall. One dessert that perfectly captures the essence of the season is pecan pie bread pudding. This creative twist on traditional bread pudding combines the richness of pecan pie with the comforting familiarity of a warm, custard-like bread dessert. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, using everyday ingredients that you might already have on hand. With its perfect balance of textures and flavors, this pecan pie bread pudding is sure to become a new fall favorite.

Why This Works

• The combination of cubed bread, pecans, and a hint of maple syrup creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more.
• This recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort for such an impressive and delicious dessert.
• The use of readily available ingredients means you can whip up this pecan pie bread pudding at a moment’s notice, making it perfect for last-minute dinner parties or family gatherings.

Ingredients

• 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Step 3: Add the cubed bread to the dry ingredients and toss until the bread is evenly coated. Then, pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Step 4: Fold in the chopped pecans. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and drizzle with the maple syrup. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Handy Tips

• For the best results, use a day-old bread to make the bread pudding. If you don’t have stale bread, you can dry out fresh bread in a low-temperature oven (200°F – 250°F) for about 10-15 minutes.
• Don’t overmix the bread mixture, as this can lead to a dense bread pudding.
• If you want a crunchier top on your bread pudding, broil the dish for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Heat Control

To ensure your bread pudding turns out perfectly, it’s crucial to maintain the right temperature and baking time. Bake the pecan pie bread pudding in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 35-40 minutes. The bread pudding is done when the top is golden brown, and the custard is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center of the bread pudding; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Crunch Factor

The combination of crunchy pecans and a crispy, caramelized top adds a delightful textural element to this bread pudding. To enhance the crunch factor, make sure to not overmix the bread mixture, and don’t be afraid to add a few extra pecans on top before baking. If you prefer a crunchier top, you can also broil the bread pudding for an additional minute or two after baking.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make your pecan pie bread pudding even more decadent, try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.
• For a shortcut, use pre-chopped pecans or pre-made bread cubes to save time on prep work.
• To make cleanup easier, line your baking dish with parchment paper before adding the bread mixture.

Storage Tips

• Leftover pecan pie bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply warm the bread pudding in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• You can also freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen bread pudding overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as desired.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This pecan pie bread pudding makes a wonderful gift for friends and family, especially during the holiday season. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or ceramic dish, wrapped in a warm cloth or twine. You could also add a few extra touches, such as a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce, to make it an extra-special treat.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a hint of bourbon or rum to the bread mixture for a grown-up twist on this classic dessert.
• Swap out the pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of honey on top of the bread pudding for a touch of salty-sweet flavor.

Troubleshooting

• If your bread pudding turns out too dry, try adding a bit more cream or milk to the bread mixture next time.
• If the top of your bread pudding is too brown, cover it with foil for the remaining baking time to prevent over-browning.
• If you don’t have pecans, you can substitute with other nuts or even chocolate chips for a different flavor.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the pecan pie bread pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen bread pudding overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as desired.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe contains bread, which typically contains gluten. However, you can try substituting with gluten-free bread to make a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and bake in a larger dish.

Conclusion

This pecan pie bread pudding is a game-changing dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings and holiday parties. With its rich, comforting flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this pecan pie bread pudding is a delicious and impressive dessert that’s sure to impress.