Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this pecan pie bread pudding! It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, combining the sweet, nutty flavors of classic pecan pie with the comforting texture of bread pudding. Every bite is a delightful journey that transports you to a cozy, rustic kitchen where the aroma of baking fills the air. I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering. Everyone was raving about it, and I felt like a superstar chef! Trust me, it’s so easy to whip up, and it’s a dessert that feels special while being totally approachable. I love how the crunchy pecans mingle with the creamy custard, creating a heavenly experience. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just want a little indulgence on a weeknight. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delicious pecan pie bread pudding together. You’re going to love it!
Ingredients List
- 4 cups of cubed bread (any kind you like, but I prefer a nice crusty loaf!)
- 2 cups of milk (whole milk works wonders for creaminess)
- 1 cup of heavy cream (trust me, this adds a richness you won’t want to skip)
- 1 cup of sugar (you can adjust a bit if you like it less sweet)
- 4 large eggs (these will help bind everything together)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (don’t skimp on this; it adds so much flavor!)
- 1 cup of chopped pecans (the star of the show, so chop them nice and chunky!)
- 1/2 cup of corn syrup (it gives that signature pecan pie sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt (to balance out all that sweetness)
How to Prepare Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures your pecan pie bread pudding bakes evenly and turns out perfectly golden brown. Trust me, you don’t want to rush this step!
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Next, grab a large bowl and combine your cubed bread with the milk and heavy cream. Give it a good stir and then let it soak for about 15 minutes. This is where the magic begins—the bread will soak up all that creamy goodness, making it soft and luscious. You want every piece to be well-coated!
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
While your bread is soaking, let’s whip up the egg mixture. In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, corn syrup, and salt until it’s nice and smooth. This mixture adds that classic pecan pie flavor, so take your time to blend it well—no lumps allowed!
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Pour the egg mixture into the soaked bread mixture and stir gently until everything is well combined. Make sure that the bread is evenly coated with the egg mixture—you don’t want any dry bits hanging out!
Step 5: Add Pecans
Here comes the fun part! Toss in those chopped pecans and give it another good stir. The pecans add that delightful crunch and nutty flavor that makes this bread pudding feel like a hug from your grandma. Mix them in well so every bite is packed with that pecan goodness!
Step 6: Bake the Pudding
Pour your mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is beautifully golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before serving—it’ll be hard to resist, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Tips for Success
Alright, now that you’re on your way to making this amazing pecan pie bread pudding, here are some of my top tips to ensure it turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Choose the right bread: For the best texture, use a slightly stale bread like French bread or brioche. It soaks up the custard beautifully without turning mushy!
- Customize your sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pudding, feel free to reduce the sugar a bit. You can also substitute brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile. Just a hint will do wonders! You can even add a splash of bourbon for that classic pecan pie vibe!
- Mix-ins galore: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Toss in some chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins for added texture and flavor.
- Check for doneness: If you’re unsure whether it’s done, gently shake the baking dish. It should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center—it’ll firm up as it cools!
- Let it rest: Allow your bread pudding to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice.
- Serving suggestions: Serve it warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream. Trust me, it takes the experience to a whole new level!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this delightful pecan pie bread pudding. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
So, you’re curious about the nutritional breakdown of this delicious pecan pie bread pudding? Here’s what you can expect per serving (about 1 slice). Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 6g
With all that creamy goodness and crunchy pecan flavor, this dessert is totally worth every bite! Just remember, moderation is key—especially when it comes to such a rich treat. Enjoy!
FAQ Section
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this pecan pie bread pudding is that you can prepare it in advance. Just follow all the steps up until baking, then cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven straight from the fridge—just keep an eye on it, as it may need a few extra minutes to cook through!
What can I serve with pecan pie bread pudding?
Oh, let me tell you, this pudding is fantastic on its own, but there are so many delicious accompaniments you can try! I love serving it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. You could also drizzle some caramel sauce on top or add a sprinkle of chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist. Fresh berries or a scoop of homemade cinnamon ice cream are delightful options too!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just cover any uneaten pecan pie bread pudding with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can either eat it cold or gently reheat it in the microwave or oven. Just be careful not to overdo it; you want to keep that lovely creamy texture intact!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a dish: This pecan pie bread pudding combines the cozy flavors of a classic dessert with a warm, comforting texture that feels like home.
- Super easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have this delightful treat in the oven in no time!
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the flavors by adding spices or mix-ins, making it uniquely yours each time you bake it.
- Serve it your way: Enjoy it warm with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel—there are endless ways to elevate this dish!
- Leftover love: It keeps well in the fridge, so you can savor the deliciousness for days after baking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful pecan pie bread pudding, let’s talk about how to elevate your serving experience! Here are some ideas that will make your dessert even more irresistible:
- Classic accompaniments: Serve it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creaminess pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the pudding!
- Drizzle it up: A warm drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch that takes this dessert to the next level. Just imagine that ooey-gooey goodness!
- Fresh fruit: Brighten up the plate with some fresh berries or sliced bananas. They add a refreshing contrast and a pop of color that makes your dessert look even prettier.
- Cinnamon ice cream: If you want to get a little fancy, try serving it with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. The spices will complement the flavors of the pudding perfectly!
- Garnish with pecans: For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top just before serving. It adds that extra crunch and makes it look so inviting!
- Pair with coffee or tea: The rich flavors of this bread pudding go hand-in-hand with a cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea. It’s a great way to wind down after a meal!
With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful experience that your family and friends will remember long after the last bite. Enjoy!
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Warm Pecan Pie Bread Pudding: A Cozy Dessert for You
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious pecan pie bread pudding that combines the flavors of traditional pecan pie with bread pudding.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of cubed bread
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup of corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, milk, and cream. Let it soak for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vanilla, corn syrup, and salt until smooth.
- Mix the egg mixture into the soaked bread mixture.
- Add the chopped pecans and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set and golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: pecan pie bread pudding, dessert, bread pudding, pecan dessert