As the cool autumn breeze sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, spiced dessert that celebrates the season’s favorite flavor—pumpkin. Bread Pudding with Pumpkin is the perfect way to indulge in a comforting treat that combines rich pumpkin, warm spices, and soft bread baked to perfection. This dessert is not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to repurpose leftover bread while giving it a seasonal twist.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through a delicious and easy-to-make Bread Pudding with Pumpkin recipe that’s sure to become a fall favorite. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love Bread Pudding with Pumpkin
Bread pudding is already a classic dessert known for its rich, custardy texture. Adding pumpkin and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger elevates this dish into the perfect fall treat. The combination of creamy pumpkin filling and soft, baked bread creates a mouthwatering dessert that’s both filling and flavorful.
Why this recipe is a must-try:
- Seasonal and Comforting: The pumpkin and spices bring a cozy, fall-inspired flavor to a classic dessert.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this dessert comes together quickly.
- Great Use for Leftover Bread: Got extra bread that’s a little stale? Bread pudding is a fantastic way to use it up.
Bread Pudding with Pumpkin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of cubed day-old bread (French bread or brioche works well)
- 1 can (15 oz) of pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 cups of whole milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar (or maple syrup)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chopped nuts
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Prepare the Bread: If your bread isn’t stale, you can lightly toast the cubed bread in the oven for about 10 minutes until it becomes firm but not browned. This helps the bread absorb the custard mixture.
- Make the Pumpkin Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves). Mix until smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Bread and Custard: Place the cubed bread into the greased baking dish. Pour the pumpkin custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to ensure all of the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Let it Soak: Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes so the bread can soak up the custard.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread pudding is set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread pudding cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Tips for Making the Best Bread Pudding with Pumpkin
1. Use Day-Old or Stale Bread
Bread pudding is best when made with bread that’s slightly stale because it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming too soggy. If you don’t have stale bread, lightly toast your bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes before mixing them with the custard.
2. Make It Vegan
To make this bread pudding vegan, use a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) and swap out the eggs for a plant-based alternative like flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg).
3. Customize with Toppings
You can take this dessert to the next level by adding toppings like caramel sauce, chopped pecans, or even chocolate chips. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also pairs wonderfully with warm bread pudding.
Why Make Bread Pudding with Pumpkin at Home?
Homemade Bread Pudding with Pumpkin is not only delicious but also offers several benefits over store-bought or pre-made versions:
Control Over Ingredients
By making your own bread pudding, you control the ingredients, ensuring it’s as healthy or indulgent as you want. You can adjust the sugar, use organic ingredients, and add your favorite spices for a customized dessert.
Budget-Friendly and Sustainable
This recipe is a great way to use up leftover bread that might otherwise go to waste. Plus, the ingredients are affordable, making it a budget-friendly dessert that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just because, Bread Pudding with Pumpkin is a dessert that’s easy to scale up for a crowd or down for a smaller portion. It’s versatile enough to serve as a breakfast, brunch, or dessert!
For more pumpkin-inspired desserts, check out this delicious Pumpkin Bread Pudding for another variation of this classic dish.
FAQs About Bread Pudding with Pumpkin
1. Can I make bread pudding with fresh bread?
Yes, but it’s best to use day-old or slightly stale bread so it can better absorb the custard. If using fresh bread, lightly toast it in the oven for a few minutes before mixing it with the pumpkin custard.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the bread to soak up the custard even more, resulting in a richer flavor and texture. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. Is bread pudding gluten-free?
This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. Just make sure all other ingredients, like your baking powder and toppings, are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
Bread Pudding with Pumpkin is a warm, comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With its creamy pumpkin custard, soft baked bread, and perfectly spiced flavors, this dish is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dessert, this easy recipe will impress both family and friends alike.
So grab that leftover bread and get ready to make this delicious, heartwarming dessert. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such a rich and flavorful treat!