Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe for Easy Fall Dessert

Introduction

Welcome to the coziest and most delicious dessert recipe for the fall season: Pecan Pie Bread Pudding. This mouthwatering treat combines the richness of pecan pie with the comforting warmth of bread pudding, all in one easy-to-make dish. Using everyday ingredients and requiring minimal effort, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dessert or an impressive centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. The combination of crunchy pecans, soft bread, and the deep flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg will make your home smell like a bakery and leave everyone craving for more.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors between the sweetness of the bread and the nuttiness of the pecans creates a delightful harmony that will please any palate.
• The accessibility of the ingredients and the simplicity of the preparation make this recipe a standout for those looking for an easy yet impressive dessert.
• The presentation of the bread pudding, topped with a crunchy pecan streusel, is sure to impress your guests without requiring hours of intricate preparation.

Ingredients

• 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup pecan halves
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

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 until well combined.
3. Step 3: Add the bread cubes to the dry ingredient mixture and toss until the bread is evenly coated. Then, pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture and stir until the bread is well saturated.
4. Step 4: Fold in the pecan halves. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid fully.
5. Step 5: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread pudding. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Handy Tips

• Use stale bread to make the best bread pudding. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out in a low-temperature oven (200°F – 250°F) for a few minutes.
• Don’t overmix the bread pudding mixture, as this can make the bread pudding dense.
• Let the bread pudding rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Heat Control

For this recipe, maintaining the correct oven temperature is crucial. Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (180°C) before baking the bread pudding. The baking time may vary depending on your oven’s performance and the size of your baking dish, so keep an eye on the bread pudding after 30 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and the center feels set when gently pressed.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor in your pecan pie bread pudding is key to its appeal. The pecans on top will toast and become crunchy during the baking process. To enhance the crunch, you can also sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top of the bread pudding before baking. This will caramelize and add an extra layer of texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra crunchy top, broil the bread pudding for 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
• Use high-quality pecans for the best flavor. Freshness matters, so try to use pecans that are recently purchased or from this season’s harvest.
• Experiment with different types of bread for varying textures and flavors. Challah or brioche can add a rich, buttery flavor to your bread pudding.

Storage Tips

• Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, 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 overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This pecan pie bread pudding makes a wonderful gift, especially during the holiday season. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or a wooden crate filled with fall leaves and twigs for a rustic touch. You can also wrap slices individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a gift basket filled with other fall treats like apple cider and pumpkin spice cookies.

Flavor Variations

• Add a hint of maple by drizzling pure maple syrup over the bread pudding before serving.
• Use different types of nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for a unique flavor profile.
• Infuse your bread pudding with the warmth of bourbon by adding a tablespoon or two to the egg mixture before baking.

Troubleshooting

• If your bread pudding turns out too dry, it might be due to overbaking. Check your bread pudding frequently towards the end of the baking time.
• If it’s too wet, you might have underbaked it. Try baking for a few more minutes and check again.
• For a bread pudding that’s not browning on top, you can try broiling it for a short time or sprinkling a bit more sugar on top before baking.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe uses traditional bread which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with gluten-free bread options for a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double this recipe for a larger crowd. Just ensure you have a large enough baking dish.

Conclusion

This pecan pie bread pudding recipe is a game-changer for any fall gathering or everyday dessert. Its ease of preparation, rich flavors, and impressive presentation make it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced bakers. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and tips provided to make this recipe your own. Whether you’re a fan of pecan pie, bread pudding, or just great desserts in general, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of pecan pie bread pudding this fall season.