Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding: 7 Indulgent Comfort Bites

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort dessert: Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

Just imagine sinking your spoon into that creamy custard, with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and toasted pecans wafting through the air. It brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and sweet holiday mornings.

I love how simple it is to make, yet it feels so indulgent! Trust me, once you taste that crispy top and gooey inside, you’ll want to make this over and over again. It’s perfect for sharing, but honestly, I won’t judge if you keep it all to yourself!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delightful dish sing. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 cups of bread cubes: I recommend using a nice crusty loaf like French or challah for that perfect texture. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces.
• 2 cups of milk: Whole milk works best for that creamy richness, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
• 1 cup of heavy cream: This adds a luxurious thickness to your custard, making every bite feel indulgent.
• 4 large eggs: These are essential for binding everything together and giving that custardy texture.
• 1 cup of sugar: You can adjust this based on your sweetness preference, but I find this amount balances perfectly with the spices.
• 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon: This is where the magic happens! It fills your kitchen with that warm, inviting scent.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor and adds depth to the dish.
• 1 cup of chopped pecans: Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch! Feel free to sprinkle some on top before baking for extra texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt: Just a pinch to enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors.

Make sure to measure carefully so that every bite is perfect! Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding

Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding! It’s super straightforward, and you’ll love how everything comes together.

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it helps the pudding cook evenly, giving you that delightful golden crust on top.

Combine Bread and Pecans

In a large bowl, toss together the bread cubes and chopped pecans. Make sure the pecans are evenly distributed among the bread so every bite has that yummy crunch! It’s such a satisfying step, watching those cubes mingle with the nuts.

Prepare the Custard Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until it’s all well combined. I love seeing the mixture transform into that rich, creamy custard — it’s like a warm invitation to dessert!

Mix and Soak

Now, pour that luscious custard over the bread and pecans. Gently stir to coat everything, then let it sit for 30 minutes. This soaking time is super important — it allows the bread to absorb all that creamy goodness, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Bake the Pudding

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and pop it into the oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until it’s set and golden brown on top. Trust me, the smell will have your mouth watering! You can check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.

Cooling and Serving

Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This little wait makes it easier to slice! Serve it warm, and don’t forget to top it off with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for that extra indulgence. Oh, you’re going to love this!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting: This Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding is like a cozy blanket for your taste buds, perfect for those chilly evenings.
• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a scrumptious dessert ready to impress without the fuss!
• Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday celebration, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together.
• Delicious flavor combination: The warm spices of cinnamon paired with crunchy pecans create a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget!

Tips for Success

To make your Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding truly unforgettable, here are some of my favorite pro tips!

• Use stale bread: Day-old bread works best! It absorbs the custard better, ensuring you get that perfect, gooey center. If your bread is fresh, just leave it out for a few hours to dry out a bit.
• Quality ingredients matter: Go for the best vanilla extract and real heavy cream you can find. Trust me, it makes a huge difference in flavor!
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or even a splash of maple syrup for a unique twist. You can really make this your own!
• Consider adding fruits: Diced apples or raisins can add a lovely sweetness and texture that complements the pecans beautifully.
• Don’t rush the soaking: Letting the bread soak for the full 30 minutes is crucial. This step ensures every piece of bread is soaked through with that delicious custard.

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making the best Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding ever! Enjoy the process and happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftover Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding is a delightful treat, and storing it properly ensures you can enjoy it again! First, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s well covered!

When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious leftovers, reheating is a breeze! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. Warm them up for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also pop individual portions in the microwave for a quick fix—just heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave’s power. Serve it warm, and don’t forget that whipped cream or ice cream for the ultimate treat!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

It’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. While I strive to provide accurate estimates, please consider these values as a general guide rather than precise measurements. Typically, each slice of this delightful Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding contains around 300 calories, with about 15g of fat, 6g of protein, and 35g of carbohydrates. Always feel free to adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs, and enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQ about Cinnamon Pecan Bread Pudding

Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! While I love using crusty French or challah bread, you can experiment with brioche, sourdough, or even cinnamon swirl bread for an extra flavor kick. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up to the custard.

What should I do if my bread pudding is too dry?
If you find your bread pudding is a bit dry, it might be that it didn’t soak long enough in the custard. Next time, let it soak for the full 30 minutes! You can also drizzle a little warm cream or milk over the top before serving to add moisture.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well. When you’re ready to bake it, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Definitely! Just substitute the bread with your favorite gluten-free bread. There are many great options available now that will still give you that delicious texture and flavor.

How do I know when my bread pudding is done?
You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. It should have a slight jiggle but not be overly wet. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing to help it set up perfectly!

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