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Pecan Bread Pudding Sweet

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe for Easy Fall Dessert

Introduction

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

Why This Works

  • The combination of cubed bread, toasted 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 dessert. The simplicity of mixing together the ingredients and baking until golden brown makes it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
  • The result is a dessert that looks and tastes like it was made by a professional, but with a fraction of the fuss. The presentation, with its crispy top and soft, fluffy interior, is sure to impress your guests and leave a lasting impression.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 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
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Bread Mixture – Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the cubed bread to the bowl and toss until the bread is evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
  2. Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture and stir until the bread is thoroughly saturated.
  3. Step 3: Add the Pecans and Maple Syrup – Fold in the chopped pecans and drizzle the melted butter and maple syrup over the top of the bread mixture. Season with a pinch of salt to taste.
  4. Step 4: Bake the Bread Pudding – Transfer the bread mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the interior is set. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Handy Tips

  • For an extra crispy top, try broiling the bread pudding for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  • Consider using different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, for a varied texture and flavor.
  • If you prefer a stronger pecan flavor, you can increase the amount of chopped pecans or add a teaspoon of pecan extract to the wet ingredients.

Heat Control

To achieve the perfect texture, it’s crucial to control the heat during the baking process. The oven should be preheated to 350°F (180°C), and the bread pudding should be baked for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the interior is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread pudding; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this pecan pie bread pudding comes from the toasted pecans and the crispy top that forms during baking. To enhance the crunch, you can try sprinkling a few extra pecans on top of the bread pudding before baking. This will create a delightful textural contrast between the soft, fluffy interior and the crunchy, nutty top.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

  • To ensure that your bread pudding is evenly baked, rotate the baking dish halfway through the cooking time.
  • For a professional-looking presentation, consider topping the bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
  • If you’re short on time, you can prepare the bread mixture and wet ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Simply assemble and bake the bread pudding in the morning.

Storage Tips

  • The pecan pie bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, consider wrapping the bread pudding tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freezing for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
  • When reheating, make sure to cover the bread pudding with foil to prevent drying out. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to restore moisture.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This pecan pie bread pudding is a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family during the holiday season. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or basket, wrapped in a warm blanket or towel to keep it fresh and cozy. You can also include a few extra goodies, such as a jar of maple syrup or a bag of freshly roasted pecans, to make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

  • Try adding a teaspoon of bourbon or rum to the wet ingredients for a grown-up twist on the classic recipe.
  • For a fruity variation, fold in some dried cranberries or cherries into the bread mixture for a sweet and tangy surprise.
  • Experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, for a unique flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting

  • If your bread pudding is too dry, try adding a little more milk or cream to the wet ingredients. If it’s too wet, you can add a little more bread to absorb the excess moisture.
  • If you notice that your pecans are not toasting evenly, try stirring them halfway through the baking time to ensure they’re evenly browned.
  • If your bread pudding is not browning on top, you can try broiling it for an additional minute or two to get a golden-brown crust.

FAQs

  • Can I freeze the bread pudding? Yes, you can freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and thaw when ready to serve.
  • Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe contains gluten due to the presence of wheat bread. However, you can try substituting gluten-free bread to make the recipe more accessible.
  • Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

This pecan pie bread pudding recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious and easy fall dessert. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make the recipe your own. And most importantly, enjoy the process of creating something special and sharing it with the people you love. Happy baking!

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe for Easy Fall Dessert

A delicious and easy fall dessert recipe that combines the richness of pecan pie with the comforting warmth of a homemade bread pudding.

⏱️ Prep Time
15m
🔥 Cook Time
35m
⏰ Total Time
50m
🍽️ Serves
8-10 servings

🥘 Ingredients

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. 2
    Prepare the bread mixture by whisking together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the cubed bread and toss until evenly coated.
  3. 3
    Mix the wet ingredients by whisking together the heavy cream, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture and stir until the bread is thoroughly saturated.
  4. 4
    Add the chopped pecans, melted butter, and maple syrup to the bread mixture. Season with salt to taste.
  5. 5
    Transfer the bread mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the interior is set.

📊 Nutrition

Calories: 320 calories

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