Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

Introduction

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is the ultimate dessert for indulgence, combining the gooey richness of pecan pie with the comforting texture of bread pudding. This decadent treat is a perfect way to bring a cozy, homemade vibe to your table, whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple dessert craving.

The combination of buttery bread soaked in a sweet custard, topped with crunchy pecans and caramelized syrup, makes every bite irresistible. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly unforgettable experience.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding:

• 6 cups of day-old bread, cubed (preferably brioche or challah)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Topping:

• 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• ¾ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the cubed bread to the bowl and gently toss to coat. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the bread absorbs the custard mixture.
4. Transfer the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg for the topping. Mix well.
6. Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the bread pudding.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden and slightly crispy.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Variations

• Chocolate Pecan Twist: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the bread pudding mixture for an extra indulgent touch.
• Bourbon Flavor: Stir 2 tablespoons of bourbon into the custard mixture or the pecan topping for a boozy kick.
• Nut Alternatives: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, sturdy bread like French bread, sourdough, or even croissants work well for this recipe.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bread pudding the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Add the pecan topping just before baking.

3. Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. What if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can use maple syrup or honey as a substitute, though the texture and flavor may slightly differ.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap out the milk and cream with almond milk or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

6. How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
The center should be set, not jiggly, and a knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

7. Can I add fruits to this recipe?
Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can be mixed into the bread pudding for extra flavor.

8. Is it possible to make this less sweet?
Reduce the sugar in both the custard and the pecan topping by ¼ cup each for a milder sweetness.

9. Can I use a different nut for the topping?
Yes, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, or even pistachios can be used for a unique twist.

10. Can I serve this cold?
While it’s traditionally served warm, this dessert is still delicious when served chilled.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is the perfect dessert to bridge the gap between comforting classics and indulgent decadence. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish promises to delight with its rich flavors and irresistible texture. Enjoy it with your favorite topping and make it a memorable centerpiece for your dessert table!