Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe for Easy Fall Dessert

Introduction

As the leaves change colors and the air grows crisp, our taste buds begin to crave the warm, comforting flavors of fall. One dessert that perfectly captures the essence of the 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 on hand. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this pecan pie bread pudding is sure to become a new fall favorite.

Why This Works

• The combination of cubed bread, toasted pecans, and a hint of maple syrup creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.
• The ease of preparation makes this dessert accessible to bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.
• Despite its simplicity, the end result is an impressive dessert that’s perfect for serving to guests or bringing to a potluck.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed bread (preferably day-old bread)
• 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
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Bread – Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Cube the bread into 1-inch pieces and spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
2. Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Step 3: Combine the Bread and Wet Ingredients – Add the toasted bread cubes to the wet ingredients and stir until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Add the Sugar, Pecans, and Maple Syrup – In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, chopped pecans, and melted butter. Add this mixture to the bread mixture and stir until well combined. Drizzle with maple syrup and stir again.
5. Step 5: Pour into a Baking Dish – Pour the bread pudding mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
6. Step 6: Bake the Bread Pudding – Bake the bread pudding for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set.

Handy Tips

• Use day-old bread for the best results, as it will absorb the liquid more easily and hold its shape better.
• To toast the pecans, simply spread them out on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
• Don’t overmix the bread pudding mixture, as this can cause the bread to become tough and dense.

Heat Control

To ensure that your bread pudding is cooked to perfection, keep an eye on it during the baking time. It should be golden brown on top and set in the center. If you’re unsure, insert a knife or toothpick into the center of the bread pudding – if it comes out clean, it’s done.

Crunch Factor

The toasted pecans add a delicious crunch to the bread pudding, while the bread itself should be tender and moist. To achieve the perfect texture, be sure not to overbake the bread pudding, and don’t overmix the mixture before baking.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To add an extra layer of flavor to your bread pudding, try using different types of bread, such as brioche or challah.
• For a boozy twist, soak the raisins or cranberries in a liquor of your choice (such as bourbon or rum) before adding them to the bread pudding mixture.
• To make the bread pudding more visually appealing, top it with a crumbly streusel topping or a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving.

Storage Tips

• Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through.
• Bread pudding can also be frozen for up to 2 months – simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This pecan pie bread pudding is a great gift idea for friends and family, especially during the holiday season. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or glass container, topped with a ribbon or gift tag. You could also include a packet of gourmet coffee or a bag of specialty tea to make it a complete gift.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to the bread pudding mixture for a unique flavor twist.
• For a fruity twist, add dried cranberries or cherries to the bread pudding mixture.
• Swap out the pecans for a different type of nut, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, for a different flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting

• If your bread pudding is too dry, try adding a little more liquid to the mixture before baking.
• If it’s too wet, try baking it for a few more minutes to dry it out.
• If you’re having trouble getting the bread pudding to set, try checking your oven temperature – if it’s off, it can affect the cooking time and texture of the bread pudding.

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 overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe contains gluten due to the presence of bread. However, you can try substituting the bread with a gluten-free alternative to make it gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe to feed a larger crowd – simply multiply all of 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 combination of cubed bread, toasted pecans, and a hint of maple syrup, it’s a unique twist on traditional bread pudding that’s sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re serving it to guests or bringing it to a potluck, this dessert is sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of the season!