Pumpkin-Pecan Bread Pudding

It’s about that time for pumpkin everything. From your morning latte to your pasta dinner. Here’s a dessert that is actually also wonderful for breakfast or brunch. This Pumpkin-Pecan Bread Pudding recipe tastes a lot like a pumpkin pie, but with a great texture and a crunchy top.

When Competitor Running Magazine asked me to create a Fall recipe utilizing pumpkin, with no sugar, and that would be great for breakfast; I started thinking bread pudding. Instead of adding sugar, I substituted Maple Syrup. This adds the perfect amount of sweetness and a subtle maple flavor that works wonderfully with pumpkin. The pecans on top are optional of course, but they do add a lot.

Bread Pudding is one of my all-time favorite desserts. It’s like a baked french toast pumpkin pie. It can be made ahead and is wonderful for brunch or a holiday dessert, and can be served warm or cold.

If I see bread pudding on a restaurant menu, I am always so tempted to order it, but they are so often disappointing. The reason for that is it is just so much better when made at home. Oh, and did I mention how easy it is to make?

How do you make bread pudding?

Bread Pudding really is simple to make. You combine day-old bread cubes with a basic custard mixture to let it soak together for 30 minutes. Then you bake it for about an hour to cook it through and get a crunchy, golden top.

How do you know when bread pudding is done?

Bread pudding bakes for  45 to 60 minutes. It will puff up and spring back when gently pushed with your hand and have an internal temperature of around 160 degrees. You can also stick a knife in and it should come back mostly clean.

What kind of bread to use for bread pudding

You can really use any kind of bread for bread pudding that is somewhat dried out. You want dried bread so it absorbe more of the custard. Brioche, sourdough or even croissants are great to use in your bread pudding recipe.

How to store bread pudding

Bread pudding should be cooled on the counter, then covered with plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator.

How reheat bread pudding

Bread pudding can be served cold, warm or at room temperature. To warm it after it has been refrigerated; simply place it in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds, depending on your preference.