Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Imagine a warm, cozy kitchen filled with the enchanting aroma of cinnamon, pumpkin, and sweet caramel wafting through the air. Pumpkin bread pudding isn’t just a dessert; it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly day, a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings, and a fast way to satisfy your sweet tooth. This delightful treat combines the rich, creamy custard with fluffy brioche bread, soaking every bite in an indulgent experience. Perfect for a holiday celebration or a simple weeknight dessert, making pumpkin bread pudding is worth every moment—and it’s kid-friendly too!

Have you ever craved the perfect dessert on a brisk autumn evening?

That moment when you cozy up with a blanket, your favorite book, and an exquisite slice of pumpkin bread pudding is pure magic. Who wouldn’t want a delectable dessert that feels like a warm hug, melting away the stresses of the day? Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking to indulge yourself on a quiet night in, this recipe will surely call out to your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love this pumpkin bread pudding, but let’s highlight a few of the most compelling benefits:

Easy Prep: You can whip this dish up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: There’s something about pumpkin bread pudding that gets everyone excited and nostalgic.
Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly magical.
Indulgent Comfort Food: It’s rich, creamy, and every bite is a taste of fall wrapped in sweetness.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or drizzled with caramel, there is no shortage of delicious combinations.

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is essential to your pumpkin bread pudding masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need to create this heavenly dessert:

1 (14-oz.) loaf brioche: Choosing a rich bread like brioche adds a fluffy and buttery dimension.
Butter, for pan: Essential for that golden, crispy exterior!
3/4 cup packed brown sugar: This will sweeten the custard, giving it the deep, caramel-like flavor we crave.
3 large egg yolks: They create a creamy texture that sets the base for the pudding.
2 large eggs: Combining these with the yolks ensures the pudding is rich but not overly heavy.
1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin puree: The heart of the recipe, packing in that cozy autumn flavor.
1 1/2 cups milk: Adds a light, creamy foundation to the custard.
1 1/2 cups heavy cream: For that luscious, indulgent finish.
1/4 cup bourbon, optional: A splash adds depth and warmth, perfect for adult gatherings.
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract: Because everything is better with vanilla!
1 tsp. cinnamon: This warm spice will invoke feelings of nostalgia.
1/2 tsp. kosher salt: Balances the sweetness beautifully.
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg: Accent flavors that scream autumn.
1/4 tsp. ground ginger: An added zing to surprise your taste buds.
Caramel, for serving: Drizzle it on for that gooey, decadent finish!

Timing

If you’re looking for something fast yet indulgent, this recipe is perfect for you. Total preparation and cooking time is just about an hour and a half! However, if you want to treat yourself to a slow and luxurious experience, consider letting the bread soak longer or preparing it the day before. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits overnight, making each bite even more delightful.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

The day before, slice the brioche into 1-inch cubes and leave them out overnight to dry out. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the bread on a baking sheet and bake at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes until slightly dry, then let it cool.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Butter a 2 to 3-quart baking dish to ensure non-sticking goodness. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, egg yolks, and whole eggs until smooth. Then, incorporate the pumpkin puree, milk, heavy cream, bourbon (if using), vanilla, and spices. Finally, add the dried bread cubes, tossing everything together gently. Allow this to soak for about 10 minutes, ensuring the bread absorbs those luscious flavors.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. The custard should be set, with a slight jiggle in the center, signifying its creamy texture.

Step 4: Serve and Indulge

Let the pudding cool for about 20 minutes before slicing it into decadent squares.

To serve, drizzle warm caramel over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides in a gooey, mouthwatering presentation.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this pumpkin bread pudding is a beautifully indulgent treat at approximately 350 calories. It’s the kind of dessert you allow yourself to enjoy once in a while, embracing the sweetness of life.

Healthier Alternatives

Don’t want to sacrifice taste for health? You can easily tweak this recipe while keeping it delicious!

Low-Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the brown sugar amount while increasing spices to enhance flavor.
Dairy-Free Swaps: Replace milk and cream with almond milk or coconut cream for a lighter twist that accommodates dairy-free diets.

Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin bread pudding deserves the royal treatment. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a luxurious contrast. This dish is also perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or even as a cozy movie night treat. You can dress it up with whipped cream or fresh, candied pecans for added flair!

Common Mistakes

Avoid these common pitfalls when making pumpkin bread pudding:

Overbaking: Always check for doneness and remove it while it still has a little jiggle. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
Texture Issues: For a smoother custard, ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated, and the bread is soaked thoroughly in the custard mixture.
Messes: To limit spills, use a baking dish that’s easy to handle and make sure your oven is properly preheated.

Storing Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (unlikely but possible), store the slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them! Simply wrap portions tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through.

Tempted to Bake It ASAP?

You might be feeling an urgent craving for this comforting pumpkin bread pudding right about now! With its creamy custard, hints of warm spice, and the ooey-gooey caramel drizzle, it’s a recipe that deserves a place in your kitchen this fall. Gather your ingredients, and let the baking begin—your cozy evening is waiting!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While brioche is recommended for its richness, you can use challah, sourdough, or even a sweet bread like cinnamon raisin.

2. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dish a day in advance and let it soak overnight for even richer flavor.

3. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter for a lighter version.

4. Can I omit the bourbon entirely?

Yes, the bourbon is optional. You can replace it with an equal amount of milk or simply leave it out.

5. How do I know when it’s done baking?

The pumpkin bread pudding is done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the dish.

Enjoy baking this luscious dessert and savor each mouthful!