Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a decadent dessert that combines two beloved classics: bread pudding and pecan pie. This dessert features a custard-soaked bread base topped with crunchy, caramelized pecans, creating a rich and satisfying treat. Whether you’re preparing it for the holidays, a special occasion, or just a weekend indulgence, this dish is sure to please. It’s the perfect comfort food that can easily be adapted to your taste preferences.

The Origins of Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding has deep roots in Southern cuisine, where both bread pudding and pecan pie are treasured desserts. Bread pudding, historically a way to use up leftover bread, became a popular dessert in many cultures. In the South, pecans became the key ingredient to elevate this humble dish into something truly extraordinary. If you’re curious about how bread pudding evolved into this rich version, check out Southern Living’s Pecan Pie Bread Pudding with Praline Sauce, which offers insights into the variations of this dessert.

Pecan pie itself, originating in the Southern United States, is a beloved holiday staple. The fusion of these two desserts—bread pudding and pecan pie—brings together the best of both worlds: the comfort of bread pudding and the rich, sweet crunch of pecans. The custard base of the pudding mimics the filling of a traditional pecan pie, while the pecans provide the signature texture and flavor.

Key Ingredients and Their Importance

To make the perfect Pecan Pie Bread Pudding, you need just a few key ingredients:

• Bread: Stale bread works best for this dessert. Brioche or French bread are ideal choices due to their texture and ability to soak up the custard without falling apart.

• Pecans: These crunchy nuts bring the rich flavor that is characteristic of pecan pie. Chopped or whole pecans can be used, depending on your texture preference.

• Custard: A mixture of eggs, sugar, milk, and vanilla. This forms the creamy base that binds the bread and pecans together.

• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the pudding.

• Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: These add warmth and depth to the flavor.

For a twist, you can incorporate bourbon or rum for added complexity, giving your bread pudding a boozy kick. If you’re looking for a straightforward recipe, Allrecipes’ Easy Pecan Pie Bread Pudding offers a simple and delicious version.

Health Considerations and Modifications

While Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is undeniably delicious, it’s also a rich dessert. However, there are a few modifications you can make to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor:

• Low-fat dairy: Swap out whole milk and cream for low-fat or almond milk to reduce calories.

• Sugar substitutes: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of brown sugar for a lower-carb version.

• Portion control: Serving in smaller portions helps manage calorie intake while still enjoying the indulgence.

Despite being a dessert often associated with holidays and special events, this bread pudding is a comforting treat any time of the year.

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

Ingredients

• 4 cups of cubed bread (Brioche or French bread works best)

• 1 cup of pecans (chopped or whole)

• 2 cups of whole milk

• 1 cup of heavy cream

• 3/4 cup of brown sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon of salt

• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (melted)

• 1/4 cup of bourbon (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the bread: Tear or cut the bread into small cubes. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

3. Make the custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.

4. Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the custard.

5. Add pecans and butter: Stir in the pecans and melted butter.

6. Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

7. Serve: Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. It’s best served warm, with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.

This recipe creates a rich, comforting dessert with crispy edges and a soft, custardy center. The pecans provide a delightful crunch, while the cinnamon and brown sugar add that familiar warmth and sweetness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Soggy bread pudding: This can occur if the bread is not soaked long enough. Make sure to allow the bread to absorb the custard mixture before baking.

• Undercooked custard: If your custard is not fully set, bake for an additional 10–15 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.

• Too sweet: If your bread pudding turns out too sweet, try using less sugar or a sugar substitute in your next batch.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding can be served in various ways to elevate the experience:

• Toppings: Whipped cream, ice cream, or caramel sauce complement the richness of the pudding perfectly.

• Beverage pairings: A glass of bourbon or spiced rum pairs wonderfully with the dessert, enhancing its flavor. You could also serve it with a strong cup of coffee.

For more creative ways to enjoy this dessert, explore variations like adding chocolate chips, raisins, or even a splash of bourbon for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a rich and indulgent dessert that brings together the best flavors of pecan pie and bread pudding. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering or as a weekend treat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can create a dessert that’s both comforting and decadent.

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

A decadent dessert that combines the best of bread pudding and pecan pie, creating a rich, custardy base topped with crunchy, caramelized pecans.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups of cubed bread (Brioche or French bread works best)
• 1 cup of pecans (chopped or whole)
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 3/4 cup of brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/4 cup of bourbon (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Tear or cut the bread into small cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
4. Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and let it sit for about 10–15 minutes.
5. Stir in the pecans and melted butter.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Best served warm with caramel sauce or whipped cream.

Notes

For added flavor, try incorporating a splash of bourbon or rum. Serving with vanilla ice cream enhances the dessert experience.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: pecan pie, bread pudding, Southern dessert, holiday treat