Indulgent Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Recipe

Introduction

Hello, food lovers! I’m Jenny, the heart and soul behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my indulgent Pecan Pie Bread Pudding recipe. This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of traditional pecan pie with the comforting texture of warm bread pudding. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bond with loved ones in the kitchen. Trust me, your family will love it!

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 cups of day-old bread, cubed
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)

Feel free to mix and match the types of bread you use. A combination of white bread and brioche adds a lovely flavor and texture!

Timing

Now let’s talk about timing. This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and approximately 50 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a sweet weeknight treat!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to create something delicious? Let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures an even baking process.

2. Prepare the Bread

In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and chopped pecans. Toss them together gently, ensuring the pecans are evenly distributed. This will give every bite a delightful crunch!

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

4. Combine Bread and Mixture

Pour the wet mixture over the bread and pecans. Gently fold everything together until the bread is well soaked. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. This will help the bread absorb all those wonderful flavors!

5. Bake the Pudding

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and set. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Let it Cool

Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This allows the pudding to firm up a bit, making it easier to serve.

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about nutrition. This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a decadent treat. Here’s a rough estimate per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 20g
• Sugar: 15g

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to cut down on calories or sugar, here are some healthier alternatives:

• Use whole grain bread instead of white bread for added fiber.
• Replace heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk.
• Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
• Add in some fresh fruits like blueberries or apples for extra nutrients.

Your taste buds won’t even miss the extra calories!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Pecan Pie Bread Pudding warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzling some caramel or chocolate sauce on top takes it to the next level of indulgence. It’s a showstopper dessert that will impress your guests!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks can make mistakes. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using fresh bread instead of day-old bread can lead to a soggy pudding.
• Not allowing the bread to soak long enough will result in uneven texture.
• Baking at the wrong temperature can either burn the top or leave the center undercooked.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll ensure a perfect dish every time!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my household), here’s how to store them:

• Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

This dish also freezes well! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

And there you have it! My indulgent Pecan Pie Bread Pudding recipe is not only delicious but also a perfect way to create cherished memories in the kitchen. Remember, cooking is all about joy and connection, so don’t hesitate to involve your family in the process. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful dessert as much as my family does!

FAQs

Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it the next day when you’re ready to serve.

What type of bread is best for this recipe?

Day-old bread works best, but you can use any bread you prefer. Brioche, challah, or even croissants add a delightful richness!

Can I add chocolate to this recipe?

Yes! Adding chocolate chips or chunks will enhance the flavor and make it even more indulgent. Just fold them in with the pecans.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Definitely! Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread, and you’re all set!

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me today! I hope you feel inspired to try this Pecan Pie Bread Pudding recipe. Remember, cooking is all about creativity and love, so have fun with it! Make it your own by adding special touches that reflect your family’s tastes. Happy cooking!

Print