If you’ve been searching for a cozy, comforting dessert that captures the essence of autumn, look no further than this Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe. Combining moist, spiced pumpkin bread pudding studded with crunchy pecans and sweet raisins, all drizzled generously with a luscious homemade caramel sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into an extraordinary treat that’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any time you long for something soothing and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe lies in its simple, humble ingredients that come together to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays its role—from the tender, custardy bread cubes to the rich, buttery caramel sauce that crowns the pudding.
- 16 cups bread, cubed (preferably day-old): Stale or day-old bread soaks up the custard perfectly without falling apart.
- 8 large eggs: Acts as the binding agent, giving the pudding its soft, custardy texture.
- 2 (15 oz) cans pumpkin purée: Adds moisture, a beautiful autumn flavor, and that gorgeous orange hue.
- 2 cups vanilla yogurt: Brings a subtle tang and helps keep the pudding moist and tender.
- 2 cups milk: Essential to create the custard base that saturates the bread cubes.
- 2 cups granulated sugar + 4 tbsp (for topping): Sweetens the pudding and creates a delightful caramelized crust.
- 2 tbsp pumpkin pie spice: Infuses warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, perfect for fall flavors.
- 1 cup raisins: Adds bursts of natural sweetness and chewy texture.
- 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped: Provides crunch and a rich, nutty dimension.
- 2 tsp cinnamon: Sprinkled on top to enhance aroma and warmth.
- 2 cups unsalted butter: Used both in the pudding and caramel sauce for a rich, creamy feel.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the silky texture for the caramel sauce.
- 2 cups brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes to the sauce, balancing sweetness beautifully.
How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish, or two smaller dishes if you prefer. Preparing the baking dish early ensures that once your pudding mixture is ready, you can transfer it in smoothly and get straight to baking.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard Base
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the eggs, pumpkin purée, vanilla yogurt, milk, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until everything is wonderfully smooth. This custard base is where your pudding’s rich flavor and tender texture begin to develop, so take a moment to make sure it’s well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Bread Cubes, Raisins, and Pecans
Add the bread cubes to your custard mixture, gently stirring until they’re evenly coated with all those luscious wet ingredients. Next, fold in the raisins and pecans carefully to disperse them evenly throughout your pudding. This ensures each bite has just the right balance of chewy sweetness and crunchy nutty goodness.
Step 4: Assemble and Add the Spice Topping
Pour your entire bread and custard mixture into the greased baking dish. Then, sprinkle the reserved 4 tablespoons of sugar mixed with cinnamon on top. This topping will caramelize beautifully while baking, giving a slightly crisp, flavorful finish to the pudding.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You want a gorgeous golden color on top and a pudding that’s perfectly set but still moist inside. Keep an eye on it during the final minutes—when it jiggles slightly but a toothpick inserted comes out clean, it’s ready!
Step 6: Whip Up the Decadent Caramel Sauce
While the pudding is baking, get to work on that mouthwatering caramel sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter, then add heavy cream and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes luxuriously rich. This sauce will be the showstopper drizzled over each serving.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Warm
Serve your Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding warm, spooning generous amounts of the caramel sauce over the top. The combination of hot pudding and warm sauce melds all the flavors perfectly and makes for an unforgettable dessert experience.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
For a truly stunning presentation, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A light dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice will add a fragrant touch that ties all the autumn flavors together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This bread pudding makes a splendid dessert after hearty fall meals. Pair it with fresh fruit like sliced pears or spiced apples, or serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced spread when enjoying it as a brunch option.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking your Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe in individual ramekins for personalized servings perfect for dinner parties. You can also layer the pudding and sauce in parfait glasses, adding whipped cream for an elegant, layered dessert that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap any leftover bread pudding tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, and tasting it the next day often means the flavors have deepened beautifully.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well. For longer storage, cut the bread pudding into portions, wrap each piece well, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen pudding will maintain quality for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or place the whole dish in a 325°F (160°C) oven covered with foil until heated through. Warm the caramel sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave just before serving for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?
Yes, you can! Just roast and puree fresh pumpkin yourself, but make sure to drain any excess moisture so your bread pudding doesn’t become too soggy.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Day-old sturdy white bread, brioche, or challah works best because it soaks up the custard without disintegrating, creating the ideal soft-yet-structured texture.
Is it possible to make this dessert dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute dairy milk for almond or oat milk, use dairy-free yogurt, and swap butter for a vegan margarine or coconut oil for the caramel sauce.
Can I prepare components ahead of time?
You can mix the custard and bread cubes the night before, cover, and keep it in the fridge. Assemble and bake fresh the following day for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is the bread pudding?
The spice level is mild and warmly comforting thanks to the pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon, perfect for all palates and easily adjustable if you prefer a stronger spice kick.
Final Thoughts
Taking time to make this Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe feels like crafting a special gift for yourself and those you love. Its rich, tender, warmly spiced nature paired with irresistibly indulgent caramel sauce makes it a must-try for anyone who loves classic, cozy desserts. Whether for a festive occasion or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to become one of your cherished favorites.
