When the leaves begin to turn golden and the air takes on that crisp, comforting chill, I find myself yearning for the warm embrace of fall flavors. This Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding is my go-to remedy for those cozy, autumn days when nothing feels more satisfying than a slice of nostalgic comfort. Imagine sinking your spoon into a bowl of creamy custard, infused with all the classic spices of pumpkin pie, and discovering sweet pockets of raisins that add a delightful chew.
What's even better is how effortlessly you can customize it-substitute extracts, add in your favorite dried fruits, or even throw in a dash of chocolate for an elevated twist. Whether it's a festive Thanksgiving gathering or just a cozy evening with loved ones, this dessert always steals the spotlight. Let's embrace the season together as we whip up this easy yet indulgent treat!
Why Is Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding Irresistible?
Comfort, Warm and inviting, this pumpkin pie bread pudding combines the best of both worlds-creamy custard and the beloved flavors of fall, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Customizable, Add your favorite dried fruits or flavor extracts to make it uniquely yours! Easy to Prepare, With simple steps and common ingredients, you'll have this dessert ready in no time, perfect for those busy autumn days. Flavorful, Infused with warm spices and hints of sweetness, it creates a cozy atmosphere that invites seconds. Versatile, Enjoy it on any occasion, whether it's a festive holiday or an everyday treat with family.
Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding Ingredients
Note: Gather the ingredients to create this delicious and comforting pumpkin pie bread pudding!
For the Bread Pudding
• French Bread - Provides structure and absorbs the custard mixture; use any leftover bread for this recipe.
• Raisins - Adds sweetness and texture; feel free to swap with cranberries for a tart kick.
• Milk - Forms the custard base; whole milk is preferred for creaminess but alternatives like almond milk work too.
• Pumpkin Purée - The key flavor contributor; always opt for pure pumpkin purée rather than flavored pie filling.
• Eggs - Binds the mixture for structure; essential for consistency with no true substitute.
• Brown Sugar - Provides sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor; can be replaced with white sugar but will slightly alter the taste.
• Butter - Adds richness; can be replaced with a neutral oil for a lighter option.
• Vanilla Extract - Standard flavor enhancer; consider using other extracts for a fun twist.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice - Combines cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg; use 1 teaspoon cinnamon plus ½ teaspoon each of nutmeg and allspice as a substitute if needed.
• Ground Cinnamon - Enhances flavor complexity; use it generously!
• Ground Ginger - Provides a spicy kick; can be omitted for a milder pudding.
• Molasses - For added depth; feel free to skip if it's not on hand.
For the Soaking Liquid
• Sweetened Condensed Milk - Adds creaminess and sweetness; substitute with half and half for a lighter version.
• Maple-Flavored Extract - Enhances the autumn flavor profile; swap it with vanilla extract if unavailable.
• Rum-Flavored Extract - Adds depth and warmth; omit if not desired, adjusting with more vanilla if necessary.
With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to crafting a delightful pumpkin pie bread pudding that's perfect for gatherings or simply a cozy night in. Enjoy the process and the scrumptious results!
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to ensure an easy release of the delicious pumpkin pie bread pudding once baked.
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Spread the bread cubes evenly into the prepared dish, maximizing the surface area for optimal custard absorption. This ensures each piece becomes perfectly tender and custardy.
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Combine the raisins and flavored extracts in a microwave-safe bowl, covering them with enough water. Microwave for 1.5 minutes until plump, which will add wonderful sweetness and texture to your pudding. Let cool before adding.
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Whisk together the milk, pumpkin purée, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, raisin mixture, brown sugar, melted butter, molasses, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, allspice, and ginger in a large mixing bowl until smooth. This creamy custard is what brings your dessert to life!
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Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring even coverage. Let the mixture sit for 1 hour to allow the bread to absorb all the delicious flavors and moisture, truly making it a bread pudding.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. This golden-brown top is a sign that your pumpkin pie bread pudding is ready to be devoured! Let cool slightly before serving.
Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert to make it truly your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy milk with almond or coconut milk for a plant-based version while maintaining creaminess.
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Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the pudding.
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Fruit Medley: Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped apples to brighten the flavor profile with a fresh twist.
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Chocolate Lovers: Stir in chocolate chips for a decadent touch that balances the pumpkin spices beautifully.
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Spice it Up: Increase the warmth by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or an extra dash of ginger for those who love a little heat.
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Maple Glaze: Drizzle with a maple syrup glaze post-baking for an added layer of sweetness that enhances the fall flavors.
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Caramel Swirl: Before baking, swirl in some caramel sauce to create delightful pockets of sweetness throughout.
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Bread Variety: Experiment with different types of bread, like challah or brioche, for a richer and more buttery flavor profile.
These variations will not only add exciting new dimensions to your pumpkin pie bread pudding but also invite you to cherish all the flavors of the season!
Make Ahead Options
Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in its warm flavors without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk together the milk, pumpkin purée, eggs, and spices, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can soak the bread cubes in the custard for an hour before baking, which helps to enhance the flavors. When ready to serve, just pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake as directed. This way, you'll have a delicious dessert ready with minimal effort, just in time for your gathering or cozy night in!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding
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Choose Stale Bread: Using stale French bread helps absorb the custard mixture without falling apart, ensuring a perfect texture.
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Soak Thoroughly: Allowing the bread to sit in the custard for at least an hour ensures every piece soaks up the flavors, resulting in deliciously custardy pumpkin pie bread pudding.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your baking time; underbaking can lead to a soggy center while overbaking can dry it out. A clean knife test is your best friend!
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to play around with extracts and add-ins; however, stick to the foundational ingredients for the best flavor balance in your pumpkin pie bread pudding.
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Serve Warm: This dish is truly best enjoyed warm, paired with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra layer of indulgence.
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Store Properly: If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently; this ensures your pumpkin pie bread pudding remains tasty and comforting!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding
Room Temperature: Enjoy your pumpkin pie bread pudding warm for the best flavor. However, if left out, consume it within 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the pudding fresh and prevents it from drying out.
Freezer: If you want to save your pumpkin pie bread pudding for later, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for maximum freshness.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding?
To create a cozy and unforgettable meal, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the warm, autumnal flavors of your dessert.
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Whipped Cream: A classic accompaniment, it adds a light, airy texture that complements the rich custard beautifully. A dollop on top is heavenly!
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your bread pudding enhances its sweetness and adds a luxurious, buttery flavor. It transforms each bite into pure indulgence.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold scoop balances the warm, spiced pudding perfectly. It's a match made in dessert heaven that'll melt in your mouth!
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Spicy Ginger Cookies: Offering a crunchy contrast, these cookies infuse every bite with warmth and a hint of spice, perfectly echoing the flavors of fall.
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Roasted Apples: Tangy and sweet roasted apples sprinkled with cinnamon create a delightful contrast to the pudding's creaminess, enhancing the seasonal theme.
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Chai Tea: Serve a warm cup of chai tea alongside your dessert for a cozy touch. The spices in the tea harmonize wonderfully with the flavors in the bread pudding.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season with this iconic drink. The flavors blend seamlessly, creating a comforting experience that celebrates autumn in every sip.
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Candied Pecans: Add a crunchy texture to your dessert with these sweet, nutty bites. They provide a delightful contrast to the pudding's softness while enhancing the flavors.
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Salted Caramel Brownies: For those seeking an extra indulgent touch, a rich brownie pairs perfectly with the pudding, adding layers of flavor and texture to your dessert spread.
Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect bread for my pumpkin pie bread pudding?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for stale French bread as it provides great structure and absorbs the custard mixture beautifully. Fresh bread may become too mushy, while stale bread will soak up all the flavors without falling apart. You can even use leftover bread-just cut it into cubes!
How should I store leftovers of pumpkin pie bread pudding?
Very simply! Store any leftover pumpkin pie bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the pudding fresh and prevents it from drying out. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Can I freeze pumpkin pie bread pudding?
Absolutely! You can freeze your pumpkin pie bread pudding for up to 2 months. Here's how: first, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave.
What if my pumpkin pie bread pudding turns out soggy?
No worries! If your pudding turns out soggy, it often means the bread didn't absorb enough of the custard mixture. For future batches, make sure to let the mixture sit for at least an hour, allowing it ample time to soak up all that delicious custard. Additionally, ensure you monitor the baking time closely; underbaking can lead to a soggy center as well.
Can pets eat pumpkin pie bread pudding safely?
While pure pumpkin is safe for pets in moderation, the other ingredients in pumpkin pie bread pudding, such as sugar, butter, and milk, aren't suitable for them. It's best to keep this delightful treat strictly for human enjoyment!
Are there any allergen considerations with pumpkin pie bread pudding?
Yes! The pumpkin pie bread pudding contains several common allergens, including eggs and dairy. If you're making this for someone with allergies, consider using egg replacements, such as flaxseed meal mixed with water, and dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk. Always be sure to double-check labels, especially for any flavored extracts which may contain allergens.
Indulgent Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding That’s Perfect for Fall
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Microwave
- Mixing Bowl
- whisk
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding
- 1 loaf French Bread Use any leftover bread for this recipe.
- 1 cup Raisins Can be swapped with cranberries for a tart kick.
- 2 cups Milk Whole milk is preferred for creaminess.
- 1 can Pumpkin Purée Always opt for pure pumpkin purée.
- 4 large Eggs Essential for consistency with no true substitute.
- 1 cup Brown Sugar Can be replaced with white sugar.
- 4 tablespoons Butter Can be replaced with neutral oil.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Consider using other extracts for variety.
- 1 tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice Can substitute with individual spices.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Use it generously!
- ½ teaspoon Ground Ginger Can be omitted for a milder pudding.
- 2 tablespoons Molasses For added depth, skip if not available.
For the Soaking Liquid
- 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk Substitute with half and half for lighter version.
- 1 teaspoon Maple-Flavored Extract Swap with vanilla extract if unavailable.
- 1 teaspoon Rum-Flavored Extract Omit if not desired.
Instructions
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Bread Pudding
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly into the prepared dish.
- Combine the raisins and flavored extracts in a microwave-safe bowl, covering them with enough water. Microwave for 1.5 minutes until plump. Let cool before adding.
- Whisk together the milk, pumpkin purée, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, raisin mixture, brown sugar, melted butter, molasses, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, allspice, and ginger in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring even coverage. Let sit for 1 hour.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
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