If you are searching for a cozy, irresistible dessert to warm up your soul, you simply must try the Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe. This sumptuous dish combines the comforting aroma of pumpkin pie spice with the rich, creamy texture of custard-soaked bread, resulting in a luscious dessert that feels like a warm hug. Each bite is packed with the perfect harmony of sweet pumpkin, deep caramel notes, and tender bread that has soaked up all the delicious flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a festive occasion or a quiet night in, this pumpkin bread pudding will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep it simple! The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that gorgeous fall color.
- 5 cups cubed day-old bread: Day-old French or brioche bread works best because it soaks up the custard beautifully without getting mushy.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture, helping to create that custard texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Richens the pudding, making every bite silky and indulgent.
- 1 cup pumpkin purée: The star of the show, pumpkin adds natural sweetness, vibrant color, and that unmistakable autumn vibe.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar: Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin spice.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and give the custard its smooth, tender structure.
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: A fragrant blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that makes this pudding truly special.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the warm flavors and adds a subtle, sweet aroma.
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream: Optional, but highly recommended for that creamy finishing touch.
- A drizzle of caramel sauce: Adds a decadent, glossy finish and an extra layer of sweetness.
How to Make Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish. Use cubed day-old bread and spread it evenly in the dish. This bread base is your canvas that will soak up all those luscious pumpkin flavors.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and velvety. This creamy custard is what transforms the bread into a rich, flavorful pudding.
Step 3: Combine and Soak
Pour the custard over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Press down gently to make sure every piece of bread absorbs the liquid. This step is key because it allows the bread to soak up the full pumpkin-spiced custard flavor.
Step 4: Rest Before Baking
Allow the bread and custard mixture to sit for 10 minutes before baking. This resting time gives the bread a chance to absorb the custard more thoroughly, ensuring the pudding will be evenly moist and delicious.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a lovely golden brown and the center is set but still so tender. The aroma filling your kitchen here will be simply irresistible.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the pudding cool slightly before serving to allow it to set perfectly. This is the moment to bring out your favorite toppings, whether it’s a swirl of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent finish.
How to Serve Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance each serving with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream or a melting scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the top brings a sticky sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly. For an extra touch, sprinkle some toasted pecans or a pinch of cinnamon on top.
Side Dishes
This pumpkin bread pudding pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for an utterly cozy dessert experience. For a brunch twist, serve alongside crisp bacon or sausages to balance the sweet richness with a savory bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, consider serving the pudding family-style in a beautiful baking dish right at the table. Or, make individual servings by baking in ramekins or muffin tins for easy portion control and a charming presentation. You can also layer it with fresh fruit compote for a festive flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover the pudding tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and the flavors actually deepen overnight.
Freezing
This bread pudding freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat portions gently in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or warm the whole dish covered with foil in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through. To recapture that fresh-baked crisp on top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While French or brioche bread offers the best texture and flavor, you can experiment with challah or even a sturdy sandwich bread. Just make sure it is day-old so it soaks up the custard nicely without turning too soggy.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with your favorite plant-based alternatives like coconut milk and coconut cream. The texture will be slightly different but still deliciously creamy and pumpkin-packed.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the pudding?
Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries make wonderful additions that add contrast in texture and a little extra flavor dimension to the Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe.
How do I know when the pudding is fully cooked?
The pudding is done when the top is a beautiful golden brown and the custard is set in the center but still tender. A knife inserted into the middle should come out mostly clean with only a few moist crumbs.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Yes, prepare the pudding up to the soaking step the day before, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Then bake fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor. This makes entertaining much easier!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe that brings comfort and joy in every bite. Its simplicity combined with rich, cozy flavors makes it perfect for sharing with friends and family. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try—it might just become your new favorite fall dessert that you reach for again and again!
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Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 6.6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Pudding is a cozy and delicious dessert perfect for fall. Made with cubes of day-old bread soaked in a creamy pumpkin-spiced custard, it bakes to a golden perfection with a soft, custardy center and a lightly crisp top. Served with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, and a drizzle of caramel sauce, it’s an indulgent treat that captures the essence of autumn flavors.
Ingredients
Bread
- 5 cups cubed day-old bread (French or brioche works best)
Custard
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Toppings (Optional)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Place the Bread Cubes: Arrange the cubed day-old bread evenly in the prepared baking dish to create a uniform base.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure the liquid saturates all the bread thoroughly.
- Rest the Mixture: Let the bread and custard sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors and liquids evenly.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still moist.
- Serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Enhance its flavor by topping with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.
Notes
- Using day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- French or brioche bread adds richness, but any sturdy white bread can work.
- Adjust the pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preference for more or less warmth.
- Allowing the bread to soak ensures a moist and flavorful pudding.
- Serve warm for the best flavor experience, especially when topped with cold whipped cream or ice cream.
