Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe for Easy Fall Dessert

Introduction

As the leaves change colors and the air grows crisp, our taste buds crave the warm, comforting flavors of fall. What better way to satisfy this craving than with a dessert that combines the richness of pecan pie with the comforting warmth of bread pudding? This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for an easy yet impressive fall dessert. By using everyday ingredients in a creative way, you’ll achieve a depth of flavor that’s sure to become a new family favorite. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for a dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors between the caramel-like pecan pie filling and the soft, fluffy bread pudding is perfectly balanced, making each bite a delightful experience.
• The ingredients are easily accessible and likely already stocked in your pantry, making this a convenient option for a last-minute dessert.
• Despite its impressive presentation and complex flavors, this dessert requires minimal preparation and cooking time, making it perfect for busy fall evenings.

Ingredients

• 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light 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

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°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.
2. Step 2: Add the bread cubes to the mixing bowl and toss until the bread is evenly coated with the sugar and egg mixture.
3. Step 3: Fold in the pecan halves. Pour in the heavy cream and mix until the bread is saturated but not soggy.
4. 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 for the best results, as it absorbs the liquid better than fresh bread.
• Don’t overmix the bread mixture, as this can lead to a dense bread pudding.
• If you prefer a crunchier top, broil the bread pudding for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.

Heat Control

To achieve the perfect golden-brown top, make sure to bake the bread pudding at 350°F (175°C) for the recommended 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it during the last 5 minutes, as the top can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly. If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil to prevent overbrowning.

Crunch Factor

The pecan halves provide a delightful crunch to the soft bread pudding. To enhance this texture, try sprinkling some additional pecan halves on top of the bread pudding before baking. This will create a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping that complements the soft bread perfectly.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Let the bread pudding rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together.
• Use high-quality ingredients, such as real vanilla extract and fresh pecans, to elevate the flavor of the bread pudding.
• Consider making individual servings of the bread pudding in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a more impressive presentation.

Storage Tips

• Let the bread pudding cool completely before covering and refrigerating it for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the bread pudding in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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 glass container, wrapped in a ribbon or twine. You could also include a few extra pecan halves or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for added flair.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the bread mixture for a boozy twist.
• Swap out the pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Add a handful of dried cranberries or cherries to the bread mixture for a fruity surprise.

Troubleshooting

• If the bread pudding is too dry, try adding a little more heavy cream or eggs to the mixture.
• If the bread pudding is too soggy, try baking it for an additional 5-10 minutes to dry it out.
• If the top is browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil to prevent overbrowning.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains gluten due to the bread. However, you can try substituting gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for an easy and impressive fall dessert. With its rich, caramel-like flavors and crunchy pecan topping, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor variations or substitutions to make the recipe your own. And don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family – after all, that’s what the holiday season is all about!