Dreamy Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe: Sweet Comfort Magic

Southern comfort meets sweet indulgence in this decadent pecan pie bread pudding that blends classic dessert traditions.

bread soaked in rich custard creates a luxurious base for a beloved Southern treat.

Warm spices and toasted pecans deliver layers of nostalgic flavor and comforting texture.

Each bite promises a harmonious blend of creamy pudding and caramelized nutty goodness.

The dessert elevates simple ingredients into a memorable experience that celebrates home-style baking.

Crusty bread transformed with pecans and sweet cream becomes an irresistible finale to any meal.

Prepare to savor a dessert that wraps you in pure, delicious warmth.

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding: Sweet Indulgence Awaits

• This pecan pie bread pudding transforms complex pie-making into an easy, straightforward baking experience that anyone can master.
• Rescue stale bread by turning it into a decadent dessert that brings new life to day-old ingredients, reducing kitchen waste and maximizing flavor.
• Combines the classic warmth of bread pudding with the rich, nutty essence of pecan pie, creating a universally loved dessert that appeals to all ages and taste preferences.
• Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a cozy weekend treat that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it incredibly adaptable for different occasions.

The Essentials For Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

• Day-Old Bread Cubes: Stale bread provides the perfect foundation for soaking up the rich custard mixture.

• Eggs, Milk: These ingredients create a creamy, smooth base that binds the bread pudding together.
• Brown Sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness to the dessert.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings a warm, aromatic flavor to the pudding.

• Cinnamon, Nutmeg: These warm spices add depth and complexity to the dessert.

• Chopped Pecans: Provide a crunchy texture and rich, nutty flavor throughout the pudding.
• Pecan Halves: Used as an optional decorative and flavorful topping.

• Butter: Helps to grease the baking dish and adds richness to the custard.
• Non-Stick Cooking Spray: An alternative option for greasing the baking dish.

Tools For Baking Gooey Bread Pudding

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining wet ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending eggs, milk, and spices without lumps.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Provides ideal space for bread pudding to bake evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions.
• Sharp knife: Helps chop pecans and cut bread into cubes.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and distributing ingredients.

Steps To Dessert Heaven: Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Warm up your oven to 350F (175C).

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it generously with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Bread Base

Toss bread cubes into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out in an even, inviting layer that will soak up all the delicious flavors.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Custard

• Eggs
• Milk
• Brown sugar
• Melted butter
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg

Whisk these ingredients until they transform into a smooth, silky mixture that promises pure deliciousness.

Step 4: Sprinkle Nutty Goodness

Fold chopped pecans into the custard, making sure they’re evenly distributed for a delightful crunch in every bite.

Step 5: Soak and Settle

Pour the luscious egg mixture over the bread cubes.

Gently press down to help the bread absorb all the creamy goodness.

Let the pudding rest for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to mingle and bread to become perfectly saturated.

Step 6: Add Decorative Touch

Optional but recommended: Arrange whole pecan halves on top of the pudding for a stunning visual appeal and extra nutty crunch.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven.

Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the custard sets into a heavenly, wobbling perfection.

Tips For Rich, Buttery Bread Pudding

• Let bread cubes sit in the custard mixture for 15-20 minutes to ensure maximum flavor absorption and a rich, creamy texture.
• Press bread gently into the liquid to help each cube soak up the egg mixture, avoiding any dry or hard spots in the pudding.
• Use day-old or slightly stale bread like brioche or challah for the best consistency and ability to soak up the custard.
• Toast pecans briefly before adding to the mixture to enhance their nutty flavor and bring out a deeper, more complex taste.
• Insert a knife near the center – it should come out clean with no liquid, indicating the pudding is perfectly baked and set.

Bread Pudding Flavor Twists

• Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bread Pudding: Replace regular bread with gluten-free bread cubes and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Vegan Caramel Pecan Bread Pudding: Swap eggs with mashed bananas, use coconut milk, and create a vegan caramel sauce with coconut cream and maple syrup.
• Low-Carb Almond Flour Pecan Pudding: Substitute bread cubes with almond flour mixture, use sugar substitute like erythritol, and add extra chopped pecans for texture.
• Chocolate Chip Pecan Bread Pudding: Sprinkle dark chocolate chips between bread layers and add cocoa powder to the custard mixture for a rich chocolate flavor.

Serving Pecan Pie Bread Pudding With Style

• Cozy Breakfast Companion: Pair this warm bread pudding with a steaming mug of coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful morning treat.
• Sweet Scoop Topping: Serve with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or bourbon-infused whipped cream to enhance the dessert's rich flavors.
• Elegant Dessert Plate: Drizzle caramel sauce or maple syrup over the bread pudding and garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Brunch Centerpiece: Present alongside fresh berries or a light fruit compote to balance the dessert's warm, comforting texture.

Bread Pudding Storage Tips

• Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent moisture loss and absorbing other food odors.
• Wrap individual portions or entire dish in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label container with date and contents.
• Place single serving on microwave-safe plate. Heat at 50% power for 30-45 seconds, checking temperature halfway through. Add splash of milk to prevent dryness.
• Warm in preheated 350F oven for 10-15 minutes. Cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture and prevent top from burning. Serve immediately after reheating for best texture.

FAQs

• Is pecan pie bread pudding suitable for make-ahead preparation?

Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature.

• Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Definitely! While day-old bread works best, you can use brioche, challah, French bread, or even leftover sandwich bread. The key is to use slightly stale bread that can absorb the custard mixture without falling apart.

• How do I know when the bread pudding is fully cooked?

Check for a golden brown top and a set custard. Insert a knife near the center – it should come out clean with no liquid egg mixture. The edges will be slightly puffed.

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe

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4.7 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Irresistible pecan pie bread pudding merges classic Southern dessert traditions with comforting bread pudding techniques. Rich caramel notes and buttery pecans create a delectable fusion you cannot resist.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 8 cups (1.9 liters) cubed day-old bread
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups (710 milliliters) whole milk
• 2 cups (227 grams) chopped pecans

Sugars and Sweeteners:

• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (220 grams) light brown sugar

Spices and Enhancers:

• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Distribute bread cubes uniformly across the prepared baking dish, creating an even base layer.
3. Combine eggs, milk, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly until ingredients form a smooth, consistent custard.
4. Fold chopped pecans into the custard mixture, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the liquid.
5. Gently pour the custard over bread cubes, pressing down lightly to help bread absorb the mixture completely and eliminate dry patches.
6. Allow the bread pudding to rest for 15-20 minutes, enabling bread to soak up the custard and develop rich, saturated flavors.
7. Optional: Decorate the surface with pecan halves for an elegant visual presentation and extra crunch.
8. Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the custard sets with a slight firmness when gently touched.

Notes

• Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and provide a deeper, richer taste profile.
• Substitute stale bread for fresh bread to absorb more custard and create a more luxurious texture.
• Use gluten-free bread for a celiac-friendly version, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delectable dessert.
• Replace some milk with heavy cream for an extra indulgent and creamy bread pudding experience.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 402
• Sugar: 24 g
• Sodium: 206 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 43 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 106 mg