Welcome to our dessert section! Today, we’re sharing a decadent recipe for Pecan Pie Bread Pudding. This dessert combines the comforting flavors of bread pudding with the rich, nutty taste of pecan pie. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, this bread pudding is sure to impress. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 8 cups cubed day-old bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Pecans
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Cube Bread: Cut day-old bread into cubes and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Chop Pecans: Roughly chop the pecans and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
- Beat Eggs and Sugars: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until well combined.
- Add Milk and Flavorings: Add the whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to the egg mixture. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread Pudding
- Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the cubed bread. Gently toss to ensure all the bread cubes are soaked in the custard.
- Add Pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans, reserving a small handful for topping if desired.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the bread mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Bread Pudding
- Drizzle Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the bread pudding.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Allow the bread pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve Warm: Serve the pecan pie bread pudding warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Bread: Day-old or slightly stale bread works best for this recipe as it absorbs the custard mixture better. You can use any type of bread, such as French bread, challah, or brioche.
- Mix-Ins: Feel free to add extra mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or raisins for additional flavor and texture.
- Butter: Ensure the butter is melted before drizzling it over the bread pudding to evenly distribute the richness.
Variations
Chocolate Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the bread mixture for a rich, chocolatey twist.
Bourbon Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the custard mixture for a boozy, flavorful variation.
Apple Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
Fold in 1 cup of peeled and diced apples to the bread mixture for a fruity addition.
Coconut Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
Add 1 cup of shredded coconut to the bread mixture for a tropical flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding up to the point of baking, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I freeze this bread pudding?
Yes, you can freeze the baked bread pudding. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
What can I serve with this bread pudding?
This bread pudding is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
How can I make the dish more indulgent?
For an extra indulgent dessert, serve the bread pudding with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a scoop of butter pecan ice cream.
Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a decadent and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich custard, crunchy pecans, and warm spices, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious treat with your family and friends!
