If you have a soft spot for cozy, comforting desserts with a nutty crunch and a rich custard base, then you need to try this Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe. It brings together the luscious flavors of classic pecan pie in the warm embrace of bread pudding, creating a dessert that’s both nostalgic and delightfully indulgent. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat on a chilly evening, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your friends and family with something truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with simple, everyday ingredients that pack a lot of flavor and texture into each bite. From the crunch of pecans to the creamy custard that ties everything together, every component has a role in making this dessert shine.
- French bread, 1 loaf (about 14 ounces), cut into 1-inch cubes: Stale or day-old bread works best to soak up the custard without becoming mushy.
- Chopped pecans, 1 1/2 cups: Adds that signature crunch and nutty depth reminiscent of pecan pie.
- Large eggs, 4: These bind the custard and create that silky, rich texture.
- Granulated sugar, 1 cup: Provides the perfect sweetness without overpowering the flavors.
- Light brown sugar, 1 cup (packed): Brings a subtle molasses hint that enhances the warm, caramelly notes.
- Whole milk, 2 cups: Adds creaminess and moisture to the bread pudding.
- Heavy cream, 1 cup: Boosts richness and ensures a velvety custard.
- Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup (melted): Contributes a buttery flavor and helps brown the top beautifully.
- Vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon: Elevates the overall flavor with sweet floral notes.
- Ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice that works perfectly with pecans.
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Bread
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Next, spread your cubed French bread evenly across the dish to create a base. This lays the foundation for your custardy dessert. Then sprinkle the chopped pecans generously over the top to make sure you get that delightful crunch in every bite.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and combined. Slowly add in the milk, heavy cream, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Keep whisking until the mixture is velvety and perfectly blended. This mix is what will soak into the bread cubes and transform them into a luscious custard-filled experience.
Step 3: Combine and Let It Soak
Pour your custard mixture evenly over the bread and pecans in the baking dish. Using a spatula or your hands, gently press the bread cubes down to help them absorb the custard. Then, be patient and let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes so the flavors meld and the bread softens, ensuring every inch is soaked with that rich mixture.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set—no longer jiggly—and the top has turned a gorgeous golden brown. Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving, giving those flavors a moment to settle and develop even more.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
A simple drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this pudding into a showstopper dessert. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional chopped pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. These little touches highlight the nutty sweetness and add pleasing textures.
Side Dishes
While this Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe stands beautifully alone, pairing it with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad can balance the richness. For instance, tart berries or a citrus salad can brighten your palate and complement the decadent flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the bread pudding in individual ramekins for a personalized touch, or layer it in a trifle dish alternating with whipped cream for a stunning layered dessert. Even topping it with candied pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon adds flair that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dessert keeps well when stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a bit, making it perfect for prepping ahead of time.
Freezing
You can freeze the bread pudding, either baked or unbaked, for up to 2 months. If frozen unbaked, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This flexibility makes it great for busy days or last-minute celebrations.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds until warm. To keep the top from drying out, cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 325°F for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil, until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While French bread works wonderfully because of its texture, you can also use challah, brioche, or even day-old white sandwich bread for a softer pudding. Just make sure the bread isn’t too fresh or the pudding might turn mushy.
Do I have to soak the bread before baking?
It’s highly recommended! Letting the bread soak in the custard mixture for 10-15 minutes ensures every cube absorbs the flavors and custard evenly, resulting in a moist and tender bread pudding.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk. Use dairy-free butter to maintain the richness. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Why isn’t my bread pudding setting properly?
If your pudding isn’t setting, it might need more baking time or the custard ratio could be off. Make sure to bake until the center is firm but still moist. Also, stale or day-old bread helps absorb custard better, so avoid overly fresh bread.
Can I add other mix-ins besides pecans?
Definitely! Feel free to mix things up with dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or even a splash of bourbon for an adult twist. Just be sure not to overload with extras so the pecan pie flavor still shines through.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe has a special way of bringing people together—whether it’s the richness of the custard or the nutty crunch of the pecans, every bite feels like a warm hug. Give it a try for your next holiday, dinner party, or cozy night in. Trust me, once you make it, it will quickly become one of your favorite desserts to share and savor.
Print
Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a rich and indulgent dessert combining the comforting texture of bread pudding with the sweet, nutty flavors of pecan pie. Featuring cubed French bread soaked in a creamy custard infused with cinnamon and vanilla, then topped with crunchy pecans and baked to golden perfection, it makes a perfect holiday or fall treat.
Ingredients
Bread and Nuts
- 1 loaf (about 14 ounces) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Arrange Bread and Pecans: Spread the cubed French bread evenly in the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the chopped pecans uniformly over the top to distribute the nutty flavor throughout.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, whole milk, heavy cream, melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a flavorful custard base.
- Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and pecans in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread cubes to help them soak up the custard thoroughly, ensuring a moist texture.
- Soak Bread: Let the mixture sit, uncovered, for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully, which will enhance the creaminess of the final pudding.
- Bake the Pudding: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The pudding is done when the center is set and the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes. Serve warm for the best flavor, optionally adding caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream as a delicious accompaniment.
Notes
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- You can prepare this bread pudding ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.
- Use day-old French bread for the best texture as it absorbs the custard mixture more efficiently.
- To toast pecans for enhanced flavor, lightly toast them in a dry skillet before sprinkling over the bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
