There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, gooey dessert fresh out of the oven. This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is everything you crave in a cozy treat: sweet, nutty, and wonderfully indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, enjoying a quiet weekend at home, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe delivers every time.
Let me tell you, this dish has a special place in my heart. Growing up, bread pudding was always a treat my grandma would whip up with leftover bread—no waste, just pure magic. But when you add the rich, caramel-like flavors of pecan pie to that already comforting dessert? It’s a game-changer.
Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this warm, decadent dessert:
- 8 cups bite-sized bread pieces (French bread works beautifully)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar (dark brown sugar adds a deeper flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup pecans, halved or chopped
How to Make Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
Making this recipe is as easy as pie (pun intended)! Follow these simple steps:
- Prepare Your Dish
Spray an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure an easy release. - Assemble the Base
Add your bread pieces to the baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the bread to add a hint of richness. - Mix the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. The mixture should be smooth and syrupy. Stir in the pecans for that nutty crunch. - Combine It All
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread pieces. Use a rubber spatula to gently press and mix the bread until all pieces are coated in the luscious mixture. - Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30–40 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is a lovely golden color. - Serve
Enjoy warm, topped with freshly whipped cream—or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent!
Details And Nutritional Information
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Nutrition (per serving)
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 326
- Sugar: 41g
- Sodium: 352mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 67mg
Helpful Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding
- Stale Bread Works Best: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better. If your bread is fresh, you can toast the pieces lightly before using.
- Use a Water Bath: For an ultra-creamy texture, bake the dish in a water bath by placing your baking dish in a larger pan filled with hot water.
- Don’t Overbake: The pudding is done when it’s set but still a little jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
Substitutions and Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans and add chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or raisins instead.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based butter and a non-dairy milk alternative for the custard.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a festive twist.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh the next day for an effortless dessert.
What if I don’t have French bread?
No worries—brioche, challah, or even a hearty sandwich loaf work just as well.
How do I know when it’s done?
The edges should be firm, and the center should be just set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Pecan Pie Bars – Perfect for holidays or any time
This Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a celebration of warm, cozy flavors and textures that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation. Happy baking!