Description
This Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding is a comforting and indulgent dessert perfect for the fall season. It combines soft, pumpkin-spiced bread pudding with a rich, buttery praline topping loaded with pecans, making it a crowd-pleaser for holidays or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread Pudding
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (French or brioche)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Praline Topping
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Bread Cubes: Place the cubed day-old bread in a large bowl and set aside.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, gently stirring to ensure all pieces are coated. Allow the bread to soak in the mixture for 10-15 minutes, letting the custard absorb fully.
- Bake the Bread Pudding: Transfer the soaked bread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Prepare Praline Topping: While the pudding bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt until fully combined and bubbly.
- Add Pecans to Topping: Mix in the chopped pecans and cook the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken and blend flavors.
- Serve: Once bread pudding is baked, remove from oven and immediately pour the warm praline topping evenly over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best texture as it absorbs the custard better.
- French or brioche bread is preferred for richness.
- You can prepare the praline topping ahead of time and warm it before serving.
- Ensure the bread pudding’s center is set by inserting a knife—it should come out mostly clean.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan butter for the praline topping.
