Introduction to Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something special for my family. That’s why I absolutely adore this Pecan Pie Bread Pudding! It’s the perfect blend of rich, nutty flavors and comforting textures, making it a delightful treat that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to enjoy a cozy dessert at home, this recipe is a quick solution that will warm hearts and satisfy sweet cravings. Trust me, it’s a dish everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a game-changer for busy days. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps. The combination of creamy custard and crunchy pecans creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bread! You’ll find that it’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Pecan Pie Bread Pudding. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Day-old bread: This is the star of the show! Using stale bread helps it absorb the custard mixture, creating that perfect texture.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, reminiscent of classic pecan pie.
- Eggs: These bind everything together, giving the pudding its rich, custardy consistency.
- Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Heavy cream: This enhances the richness of the pudding. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead.
- Brown sugar: It brings a deep sweetness and caramel flavor, essential for that pecan pie taste.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile, making it even more comforting.
- Cinnamon: This warm spice adds depth and a hint of warmth, perfect for cozy evenings.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
For those who like to experiment, consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for an extra twist! You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making Pecan Pie Bread Pudding. This recipe is straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar by the end!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. If you skip this step, your pudding might end up unevenly baked, and nobody wants that! So, let that oven warm up while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Each ingredient plays a vital role here. The eggs provide structure, while the milk and cream create that luscious custard texture. The brown sugar adds sweetness, and the vanilla and cinnamon bring warmth and depth. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Combine Bread and Pecans
Next, it’s time to add the star ingredients: the cubed day-old bread and chopped pecans. Using day-old bread is key because it soaks up the custard mixture beautifully without turning mushy. Gently fold the bread and pecans into the custard until every piece is coated. This step is where the magic begins, as the bread absorbs all those delicious flavors!
Step 4: Bake the Pudding
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Now, pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the pudding is set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean. If it jiggles too much, give it a few more minutes.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let your Pecan Pie Bread Pudding cool for about 10-15 minutes. This waiting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it warm, drizzled with caramel sauce or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds!
Tips for Success
- Use stale bread for the best texture; it absorbs the custard perfectly.
- Don’t rush the cooling process; it helps the pudding set and enhances flavors.
- Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit for a unique twist.
- For a richer flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the mixture.
- Serve with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence!
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly, but any oven-safe dish will do.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for whisking the custard; a smaller one can work too.
- Whisk: Essential for blending ingredients; a fork can be a handy substitute.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy, but eyeballing can work in a pinch!
Variations of Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
- Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bread Pudding: Add a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey twist.
- Dried Fruit Delight: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of sweetness and texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Spiced Up Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond milk and coconut cream for a dairy-free delight.
Serving Suggestions for Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a light, airy contrast.
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
- Drizzle with warm caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Accompany with a cup of coffee or spiced chai for a cozy experience.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
Can I make Pecan Pie Bread Pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pudding a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven before serving. This makes it a perfect dessert for busy days or gatherings!
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Day-old bread is ideal for this Pecan Pie Bread Pudding. You can use brioche, challah, or even a hearty sourdough. The key is to ensure it’s stale enough to soak up the custard without becoming mushy.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes! If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. Just keep in mind that using heavy cream gives the pudding that rich, indulgent texture we all love.
How do I know when the pudding is done baking?
Your Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean. If it jiggles too much, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
What can I serve with Pecan Pie Bread Pudding?
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also enjoy it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat!
Final Thoughts
Making Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is more than just a cooking task; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to both the cook and the family. The warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen is like a hug from the inside out. Each bite is a sweet reminder of cherished moments spent around the table. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat, this dessert has a way of making everything feel a little more special. So, gather your loved ones, serve up this delicious pudding, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Print
Pecan Pie Bread Pudding: A Decadent Treat to Savor!
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the flavors of classic pecan pie with the comforting texture of bread pudding.
Ingredients
- 6 cups of day-old bread, cubed
- 1 cup of pecans, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the cubed bread and chopped pecans to the mixture, stirring to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.
- For added flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruit.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
