Southern kitchens are magic, turning simple ingredients into amazing dishes. Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is the ultimate Southern comfort food. It combines two classics into one treat that warms the heart.

This dessert mixes the sweet pecan pie with the soft bread pudding. It’s a treat that makes home baking special. Every bite is a mix of buttery pecans, caramelized sugar, and tender bread in a rich custard.

In the South, families love this dessert. It’s perfect for holidays and weekend dinners. It’s more than a dessert; it’s a celebration of family and food.

If you love baking or just enjoy good food, this dessert is for you. It’s a treat that turns simple ingredients into magic.

What is Pecan Pie Bread Pudding?

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a mix of two Southern desserts. It’s a Custard Dessert that’s both rich and indulgent. It turns Baked Bread Pudding into a treat that’s all about comfort food.

This Family Recipe blends the softness of bread pudding with the nutty taste of pecan pie. It’s a dessert that goes beyond the usual, offering a mix of flavors that excite the senses.

A Sweet Symphony of Flavors

Picture a dessert that combines smooth custard with crunchy pecans. Each bite is a perfect mix of textures and tastes that play on your tongue.

Soft, bread-soaked custard
Crunchy pecan crumble
Rich caramel undertones
Warm, comforting spices

The Origins of Bread Pudding

Bread pudding started as a way to use up old bread. Frugal cooks found that soaking bread in sweet custard made a tasty treat.

Inspiration from Pecan Pie

The classic pecan pie inspired this dessert. Bakers mixed the best parts of both dishes. This created a dessert that honors Southern cooking.

A true celebration of flavor, texture, and culinary creativity!

Ingredients for the Perfect Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

Making a great Pecan Pie Bread Pudding needs the right ingredients. These ingredients turn a simple dessert into a masterpiece. The perfect mix makes this brunch treat stand out.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are the key ingredients for the ultimate Pecan Pie Bread Pudding:

Day-old bread (preferably challah or brioche)
Fresh eggs
Whole milk or heavy cream
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
Chopped pecans

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

For an even better dessert, try these exciting additions:

Pecan caramel sauce for rich, deep sweetness
Bourbon or rum for depth
Cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice
Chocolate chips for decadence
Maple syrup as a natural sweetener

The secret to a great Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is using top-notch ingredients. Your homemade pecan caramel sauce can make this dish unforgettable. It shows off your baking skills.

Recipe card

A rich, indulgent twist on traditional bread pudding that marries the flavors of classic pecan pie with a custardy, comforting dessert.

Equipment

9×13 Inch Baking Dish: For an even, deep bake.
Large Mixing Bowl: To combine the bread and custard.
Whisk: For smoothly blending the custard ingredients.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: To accurately measure liquids and spices.
Knife & Cutting Board: For cutting bread into cubes and chopping pecans.
Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for baking.
Small Saucepan: To prepare the pecan pie glaze.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding:

1 loaf day-old brioche or challah (about 8 cups cubed)
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Pecan Pie Glaze:

1/2 cup corn syrup (or maple syrup for a twist)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Extra pecan halves or chopped pecans (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cube your day-old bread into roughly 1-inch pieces and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
Make the Custard:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
Combine & Assemble:
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, gently tossing to coat thoroughly.
- Fold in the toasted chopped pecans until distributed evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. (A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.)
Prepare the Glaze:
- While the pudding bakes, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Finish & Serve:
- Remove the bread pudding from the oven and allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes.
- Drizzle the warm pecan pie glaze evenly over the pudding and garnish with extra pecan halves or chopped pecans.
- Serve warm—ideally paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

How to Make Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

Making a delicious Baked Bread Pudding is all about skill and passion. It’s a mix of pecan pie’s rich flavors and bread pudding’s cozy texture. It’s perfect for any special event.

Preparing Your Ingredients

First, get your ingredients ready. You’ll need:

Day-old bread (preferably brioche or challah)
Eggs and heavy cream
Pecans
Brown sugar and vanilla extract

Baking Tips for a Perfect Texture

For a fluffy bread pudding, follow these steps. Cube your bread and soak it in custard for 30 minutes. This makes each bite custardy and rich.

Serving Your Masterpiece

Here’s how to serve your Holiday Dessert:

Warm the pudding slightly before serving
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra decadence

Pro tip: Let the Baked Bread Pudding rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This lets the custard set perfectly.

“A great dessert is about creating memories as much as satisfying sweet cravings.” – Pastry Chef

Variations and Adaptations of Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

Southern comfort food fans love to make recipes their own. Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is perfect for this, offering many ways to make it your own. It’s a great holiday treat that can fit many tastes and needs.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

Need a recipe that fits special diets? This classic can be made gluten-free or dairy-free. Use gluten-free bread like Udi’s or Canyon Bakehouse. Replace regular milk with almond or oat milk and butter with coconut oil for a tasty, dairy-free version.

Creative Additions to the Classic Recipe

Make your Pecan Pie Bread Pudding even better with new ingredients. Try adding bourbon-soaked raisins, dark chocolate chips, or cinnamon. Using nuts from Georgia adds a special touch to this Southern dessert.

Seasonal Variants to Try During Holidays

Change up this Southern treat for different holidays. Add pumpkin spice for Thanksgiving or candied orange peel for Christmas. Summer versions can include fresh berries. Each twist makes a new memory while keeping the recipe’s warm spirit.

FAQ

What makes Pecan Pie Bread Pudding different from traditional bread pudding?

Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a unique mix. It combines the creamy texture of bread pudding with the rich taste of pecan pie. It has a caramel pecan sauce and a richer custard, making it stand out.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can! It’s great for making ahead. Just reheat it before serving. It tastes even better after the flavors have melded together overnight.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

Challah, brioche, or day-old French bread are best. They soak up the custard well and stay soft. Avoid very crusty or dense breads to keep it light.

Is this dessert suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

You can make it work for different diets. Use gluten-free bread and dairy substitutes like almond or coconut milk. Replace butter with a plant-based option for a diet-friendly version.

How long does Pecan Pie Bread Pudding typically keep?

It stays fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat it to enjoy its warm, soft texture again.

Can I freeze Pecan Pie Bread Pudding?

Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap it well in plastic and foil. It freezes for 2-3 weeks. Thaw and reheat in the oven for serving.

What’s the best way to serve Pecan Pie Bread Pudding?

Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or extra caramel sauce. Whipped cream or chopped pecans on top add a nice touch.

Can I make this dessert for special occasions?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for holidays or family gatherings. It’s both comforting and elegant, making it a great choice for celebrations. Pecan Pie Bread PuddingA rich, indulgent twist on traditional bread pudding that marries the flavors of classic pecan pie with a custardy, comforting dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Equipment9x13 Inch Baking Dish: For an even, deep bake.Large Mixing Bowl: To combine the bread and custard.Whisk: For smoothly blending the custard ingredients.Measuring Cups & Spoons: To accurately measure liquids and spices.Knife & Cutting Board: For cutting bread into cubes and chopping pecans.Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for baking.Small Saucepan: To prepare the pecan pie glaze.Ingredients For the Bread Pudding:1 loaf day-old brioche or challah about 8 cups cubed4 large eggs1 cup whole milk1 cup heavy cream1/2 cup granulated sugar1/4 cup brown sugar1 tsp vanilla extract1/2 tsp ground cinnamon1/4 tsp ground nutmeg1/2 tsp salt1 cup chopped pecans toastedFor the Pecan Pie Glaze:1/2 cup corn syrup or maple syrup for a twist1/4 cup brown sugar1/4 cup heavy cream1/2 tsp vanilla extractPinch of saltExtra pecan halves or chopped pecans for garnishInstructions Preheat & Prep:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x13 inch baking dish.Cube your day-old bread into roughly 1-inch pieces and set aside in a large mixing bowl.Make the Custard:In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.Combine & Assemble:Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, gently tossing to coat thoroughly.Fold in the toasted chopped pecans until distributed evenly.Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.Bake:Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. (A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.)Prepare the Glaze:While the pudding bakes, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan.Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.Finish & Serve:Remove the bread pudding from the oven and allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes.Drizzle the warm pecan pie glaze evenly over the pudding and garnish with extra pecan halves or chopped pecans.Serve warm—ideally paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.How to Make Pecan Pie Bread Pudding

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Pecan Pie Bread Pudding