Easy Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe You Will Love

Pumpkin bread pudding is a cozy dessert that perfectly fits the fall season or any time you want a warm, comforting treat. It takes classic bread pudding and adds a twist with pumpkin puree and spices. The result is rich, creamy, and packed with flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. If you like pumpkin desserts but want something different from the usual pumpkin pie, this pumpkin bread pudding recipe is a great choice.

What Is Pumpkin Bread Pudding?

Pumpkin bread pudding is a baked dessert made from cubes of bread soaked in a custard mixture flavored with pumpkin puree and traditional fall spices. The bread soaks up the liquid, becoming soft and custardy inside, while the outside gets a slight golden crust. It is usually served warm and can be topped with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

This dessert is not only delicious but also a clever way to use leftover bread and pumpkin. It’s easy to make in one dish and great for family gatherings or holiday dinners.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make pumpkin bread pudding, you don’t need many complicated ingredients. Here is what you’ll need:

• Bread: Day-old or slightly stale bread works best. You can use white bread, brioche, challah, or even croissants for extra richness.
• Pumpkin puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, or homemade if you have it.
• Eggs: They help bind the custard together.
• Milk and heavy cream: These make the custard creamy.
• Sugar: Brown sugar adds a deep caramel flavor, but you can also use granulated sugar.
• Spices: Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves bring that warm pumpkin spice flavor.
• Vanilla extract: For added aroma.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
• Optional nuts or raisins: For texture and extra flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Making pumpkin bread pudding is straightforward. The key is to let the bread soak well in the custard to get a creamy texture.

1. Prepare the bread: Cut your bread into cubes about 1 to 1.5 inches. If your bread is fresh, you can toast it lightly in the oven to dry it out a bit.
2. Make the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin puree, sugar, spices, vanilla, salt, milk, and cream until smooth.
3. Combine: Place the bread cubes in a buttered baking dish and pour the custard mixture over them. Gently press the bread down to make sure it soaks up the liquid.
4. Let it soak: For best results, let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes or even overnight in the fridge. This helps the bread absorb the custard fully.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pudding uncovered for about 45 to 55 minutes or until the top is golden and the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
6. Cool and serve: Let it cool a bit before serving. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread Pudding

• Use bread with a good crumb structure. Soft breads like brioche or challah soak up custard beautifully without falling apart.
• Don’t skip the soaking step. It makes a big difference in texture.
• Adjust the sweetness according to your taste. If you want it less sweet, reduce the sugar slightly.
• Add mix-ins like chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries for more texture and flavor.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with almond or coconut milk, but keep the creaminess in mind.

Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin bread pudding is best served warm. Here are some ways to make it even better:

• Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for contrast.
• Drizzle with caramel or maple syrup.
• Sprinkle some powdered sugar and cinnamon before serving.
• Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk.

Why Pumpkin Bread Pudding Is a Great Choice

This dessert stands out because it’s easy to make ahead, feeds a crowd, and combines familiar ingredients in a new way. It’s less common than pumpkin pie, which makes it a fun surprise for guests or family. Plus, it’s a good way to use leftover bread and pumpkin during the fall season.

Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a simple weekend treat, pumpkin bread pudding is sure to please. The warm spices, creamy custard, and soft bread cubes make it a dessert that feels both indulgent and homey.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin bread pudding is a delicious fall dessert that brings together simple ingredients in a comforting dish. It’s easy to prepare, flexible with different breads and add-ins, and perfect for sharing. Try this recipe to enjoy the flavors of pumpkin spice in a creamy, custardy treat that will warm you up on cool days.

Make sure to let the bread soak well and bake until golden. With the right toppings, this dessert becomes even more special. Give pumpkin bread pudding a try this season and discover a new favorite.