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

Scale

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

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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.