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Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 25 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 to 6.6 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Pudding is a cozy, comforting dessert perfect for fall and holiday gatherings. Cubed day-old bread is soaked in a rich custard made with pumpkin purée, warm pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and creamy milk and cream. Baked until golden and tender, this pumpkin bread pudding is a luscious treat served best with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.


Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

  • 5 cups cubed day-old bread (French or brioche works best)
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup pumpkin purée
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Serving

  • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
  • A drizzle of caramel sauce


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  2. Arrange the Bread: Evenly place the cubed day-old bread into the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
  3. Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Press down gently on the bread to ensure it soaks up the custard completely.
  5. Rest: Let the bread and custard mixture sit for 10 minutes to absorb fully before baking.
  6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the center is set but still moist.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for added decadence.

Notes

  • Using day-old bread helps the bread absorb the custard better without becoming too mushy.
  • French or brioche bread are ideal for the best texture and flavor, but other bread can be used if needed.
  • You can adjust the pumpkin pie spice to your taste preference, adding more for a stronger spice flavor.
  • Letting the mixture rest before baking allows for better custard absorption.
  • For a richer texture, use whole milk and heavy cream as specified.
  • Serve immediately or refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently before serving.