Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe for Easy Fall Dessert
Introduction
As the seasons change and the air grows cooler, our taste buds begin to crave the warm, comforting flavors of fall. One dessert that perfectly encapsulates 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 familiarity of bread pudding, all in one delectable dish. 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 stale bread, sweet pecans, and a hint of spice creates a flavor balance that is both comforting and exciting.
- The ingredients are easily accessible and likely already stocked in your pantry, making this a convenient dessert option.
- Despite its impressive presentation and complex flavors, this bread pudding is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort for a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 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
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Step 2: Add the bread cubes to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the sugar and egg mixture.
- Step 3: Fold in the pecan halves and heavy cream until the bread mixture is moist and the pecans are evenly distributed.
- Step 4: Pour the bread mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread pudding is set.
Handy Tips
- Use stale bread to make the best bread pudding. If your bread is not stale, you can dry it out in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
- Don’t overmix the bread mixture, as this can make the bread pudding dense and tough.
- If you want a crunchier top on your bread pudding, broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Heat Control
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, it’s essential to control the heat when baking the bread pudding. Bake it at 350°F (180°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread pudding is set. If you’re unsure whether it’s done, insert a knife into the center of the bread pudding. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. If not, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.
Crunch Factor
The combination of crunchy pecans and tender bread makes this bread pudding a textural delight. To enhance the crunch factor, you can sprinkle some additional pecan halves on top of the bread pudding before baking. This will give it a nice crunch on top and add to the overall texture of the dish.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- To make the bread pudding more moist, you can add a little more heavy cream or try using half-and-half instead.
- If you want to make individual servings, you can divide the bread mixture among ramekins or small baking dishes and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until set.
- Experiment with different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, for a unique flavor and texture.
Storage Tips
- Let the bread pudding cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap the cooled bread pudding tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bread pudding will keep for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, thaw the bread pudding overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
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 jar, wrapped in a ribbon or twine, and accompanied by a card with the recipe and baking instructions. You could also pair it with a bag of freshly brewed coffee or a selection of teas for a cozy gift basket.
Flavor Variations
- Try using different types of nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, for a unique flavor and texture.
- Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the bread mixture for a grown-up twist on the classic recipe.
- Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to add depth and warmth to the bread pudding.
Troubleshooting
- If your bread pudding is too dry, try adding a little more heavy cream or eggs to the mixture.
- If it’s too wet, you can try baking it for a few more minutes or adding some extra bread to absorb the excess liquid.
- If you notice that your bread pudding is browning too quickly, cover the top with foil to prevent overbrowning.
FAQs
- Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains gluten due to the presence of bread. However, you can try using gluten-free bread to make a gluten-free version.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch of bread pudding. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and bake in a larger dish.
Conclusion
This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a game-changer for anyone looking for an easy and impressive dessert to serve during the fall season. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a new favorite among your friends and family. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor variations to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance. Happy baking!
Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe for Easy Fall Dessert
A delicious and easy-to-make bread pudding that combines the richness of pecan pie with the comforting familiarity of bread pudding.
🥘 Ingredients
👩🍳 Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
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2In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
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3Add the bread cubes to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the sugar and egg mixture.
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4Fold in the pecan halves and heavy cream until the bread mixture is moist and the pecans are evenly distributed.
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5Pour the bread mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread pudding is set.