Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe for Easy Fall Dessert

Introduction

As the leaves 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 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 pudding. 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 textures and flavors, this pecan pie bread pudding is sure to become a new fall favorite in your household.

Why This Works

• The combination of cubed bread, gooey pecan filling, and crunchy pecans on top creates a delightful texture contrast that will leave everyone wanting more.
• The use of accessible ingredients like stale bread, pecans, eggs, and maple syrup makes this dessert easy to whip up without a special trip to the store.
• Despite its impressive presentation and complex flavors, this bread pudding is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort for maximum reward.

Ingredients

• 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup pecan halves
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Bread Mixture – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth after each addition. Whisk in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Step 2: Add the Bread and Pecans – Add the cubed bread to the bowl and toss until the bread is evenly coated with the sugar and egg mixture. Fold in the pecan halves.
3. Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Pudding – Transfer the bread mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and drizzle with maple syrup. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
4. Step 4: Serve and Enjoy – Remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm, topped with additional pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Handy Tips

• Use stale bread to make the best bread pudding. If your bread is fresh, try drying it out in the oven at 200°F for a few minutes to remove excess moisture.
• Don’t overmix the bread mixture, as this can create a dense pudding.
• Toast the pecans in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to enhance their flavor and texture.

Heat Control

To achieve the perfect texture, it’s essential to monitor the heat and baking time. The pudding should be baked at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center of the pudding; if it comes out clean, the pudding is ready.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this pecan pie bread pudding comes from the toasted pecans on top. To achieve the perfect crunch, toast the pecans in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. You can also add a crunchy topping, such as chopped nuts or cookie crumbs, to the pudding before baking.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality ingredients, such as pure maple syrup and fresh pecans, to elevate the flavor of the pudding.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and flavor combinations, such as adding a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the pudding.
• Make the pudding ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it until ready to bake. This can help the flavors meld together and the bread to absorb the liquid.

Storage Tips

• Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the pudding in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Freeze the pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen pudding overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This pecan pie bread pudding makes a wonderful gift for friends and family. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or ceramic dish, topped with a layer of pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup. You can also wrap the pudding in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and tie with a ribbon for a more rustic presentation.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to the pudding for a unique flavor combination.
• Use different types of nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, for a varied texture and flavor.
• Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the pudding for a grown-up twist on the classic recipe.

Troubleshooting

• If the pudding is too dry, try adding a little more maple syrup or eggs to the mixture.
• If the pudding is too wet, try baking it for a few more minutes or adding a little more bread to the mixture.
• If the pecans are not toasted enough, try baking them for a few more minutes or stirring them halfway through the toasting time.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the pudding? Yes, you can freeze the pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen pudding overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
• Is the pudding gluten-free? No, the pudding contains bread and therefore is not gluten-free. However, you can try using gluten-free bread to make a gluten-free version of the pudding.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger pudding. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and bake in a larger dish.

Conclusion

This pecan pie bread pudding is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for the fall season. With its rich, gooey pecan filling and crunchy pecan topping, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and flavor combinations, and consider making a few extra puddings to give as gifts to friends and family. Happy baking!