If you love the rich, comforting flavors of classic pecan pie but want to enjoy them in a cozy, sliceable form, this Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe is an absolute game changer. It takes the buttery, nutty sweetness of pecan pie and marries it with tender, custardy bread pudding for a dessert that’s irresistibly warm and perfect for sharing. Every bite bursts with the deep caramel goodness you crave, combined with a soft, satisfying texture that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether it’s a holiday treat or a special weekend indulgence, this recipe delivers nostalgia and delight in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe just right is all about combining simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role, from the bread that forms the soft base to the pecans that add crunch and nuttiness, and the luscious caramel topping that seals the deal with sweetness and shine.
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (French bread or brioche): Best for absorbing custard without turning mushy, providing that perfect tender bite.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and richness that soaks into the bread beautifully.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Enhances decadence and helps create a silky custard texture.
- 3 large eggs: The magic binders that hold everything together and build the custard structure.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard for balanced flavor without overpowering.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth to the custard base.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice note that complements the pecans perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Lends a subtle earthiness and complexity.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and helps caramelize the topping.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Gives the topping that classic molasses flavor and moist sweetness.
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup: Ensures the topping gets that glossy, sticky texture reminiscent of pecan pie.
- 2 cups chopped pecans: The star ingredient, adding crunch and that nutty aroma.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramel sauce): Used to craft the homemade caramel drizzle.
- 1/4 cup water (for caramel sauce): Helps dissolve the sugar evenly during caramelization.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for caramel sauce): Richens the caramel and creates a smooth finish.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for caramel sauce): Rounds out the caramel with a lush vanilla note.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready and waiting. Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly; this prevents the pudding from sticking while adding a bit of buttery flavor to the edges.
Step 2: Layer the Bread Cubes
Spread your cubed day-old bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. Using day-old bread ensures it can soak up all the luscious custard without falling apart, giving the pudding its iconic soft yet structured consistency.
Step 3: Make the Custard and Soak
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour this fragrant custard over the bread cubes, gently pressing down so every piece absorbs the liquid. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes—the longer it soaks, the more tender your bread pudding will be.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Topping
Mix the melted butter, brown sugar, light corn syrup, and chopped pecans together to create a luscious topping that mirrors the iconic pecan pie glaze. Carefully spread this mixture over the soaked bread, ensuring an even layer to caramelize beautifully while baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top and a custard that’s firm yet still soft when nudged—it should not jiggle too much but hold together nicely.
Step 6: Optional Caramel Sauce Drizzle
While the pudding is baking, you can prepare the optional caramel sauce for an extra special touch. Heat granulated sugar and water in a saucepan, swirling gently until it turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract carefully—the caramel will bubble vigorously. Drizzle this decadent sauce over warm pudding just before serving.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this comforting dessert, try topping it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for creamy contrast. Sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans on top to add more crunch and visual appeal. A light dusting of powdered sugar also works wonders for that extra sweet finish.
Side Dishes
This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe pairs beautifully with warm beverages like spiced chai or freshly brewed coffee to balance the sweetness. For an after-dinner treat, offer a fresh fruit salad with citrus notes to brighten the palate alongside the richness of the pudding.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, consider serving the pudding in individual ramekins for a personal touch or layer it in a trifle dish with whipped cream and caramel swirls for an eye-catching centerpiece. You could also toast bread cubes and top with a drizzle of caramel sauce in mini mason jars for a cute grab-and-go dessert option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The great news about this Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe is it tastes just as good the next day. Simply cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors deepen and meld beautifully overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Freezing
You can freeze fully baked bread pudding by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it against freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, reheat the pudding in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. If reheating individual portions, microwave for around 1 to 2 minutes, but baking retains the lovely crisp topping best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe?
Absolutely! While French bread and brioche are ideal for their texture and flavor absorption, you can experiment with challah or even a dense white sandwich bread if you prefer. Just make sure it’s day-old to soak up the custard properly without falling apart.
Is it necessary to make the caramel sauce, or can I skip it?
The caramel sauce is optional but highly recommended. It adds a luscious, sticky sweetness that closely replicates classic pecan pie and elevates the dessert. However, the pudding is delicious on its own, especially with whipped cream or ice cream.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance for a holiday gathering?
Yes! This pudding can be assembled the night before and baked right before serving. This makes it perfect for holidays or dinner parties when you want to save time and impress guests with minimal last-minute effort.
How can I make this recipe nut-free?
If you need to avoid nuts, simply omit the pecans and swap in a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or even chocolate chips for a different delicious take. While it won’t be pecan pie style, it will still be an indulgent bread pudding treat.
What’s the best way to ensure the pudding doesn’t get soggy?
Using day-old bread and allowing the custard to soak just long enough—10 to 15 minutes—is key. Press the bread lightly to encourage absorption but avoid letting it sit too long, which can make the texture overly mushy.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something incredibly comforting and irresistible about this Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe that makes it a must-try for any home baker or dessert lover. Its warm, nutty sweetness paired with soft, custardy bread delivers all the classic flavors in one beautiful dish. Once you make it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close for holidays, weekend gatherings, or any time you need a slice of cozy happiness. Trust me, it’s a winner every single time!
Print
Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Pecan Pie Bread Pudding combines the rich flavors of pecan pie with the classic warmth of bread pudding. Cubed day-old French bread or brioche is soaked in a spiced custard, topped with a luscious pecan mixture, baked to golden perfection, and optionally drizzled with a homemade caramel sauce. Perfect for dessert or a special brunch treat.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (French bread or brioche)
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup
- 2 cups chopped pecans
For the Optional Caramel Sauce:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Bread: Evenly spread the cubed day-old bread across the prepared baking dish, ensuring the bread is well distributed.
- Make Custard and Soak Bread: In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the dish, pressing down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to ensure full soaking.
- Prepare Pecan Topping: Mix the melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, and light corn syrup in a bowl. Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly coated. Spread this mixture evenly over the soaked bread.
- Bake the Pudding: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set and firm to the touch.
- Optional Caramel Sauce: While the pudding bakes or after removing it from the oven, prepare the caramel sauce by heating granulated sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Swirl the pan gently without stirring until the mixture turns amber in color. Carefully add heavy cream and vanilla extract, then stir until smooth. Drizzle this warm caramel sauce over the baked bread pudding before serving.
Notes
- Use day-old bread to prevent the pudding from becoming too mushy.
- French bread or brioche provides the best texture and flavor.
- You can prepare the custard and soak the bread ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and adjust the topping accordingly.
- The caramel sauce is optional but adds extra richness and sweetness.
- Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving to let it set fully.
