Pumpkin Cheesecake Bread Pudding: The Perfect Blend of Creamy Cheesecake and Fall Flavors

This Pumpkin Cheesecake Bread Pudding is a rich, decadent dessert that combines the comforting flavors of spiced pumpkin with the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake. Made with layers of buttery brioche soaked in a spiced pumpkin custard, and topped with a caramelized brown sugar topping, this dish is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply when you want to indulge in a cozy fall treat. The soft, rich bread pudding bakes to perfection, while the cream cheese adds a delightful layer of creamy goodness in every bite.

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Why Pumpkin and Cream Cheese Make a Perfect Pair

Pumpkin and cream cheese are a classic pairing, often found in fall desserts like pumpkin rolls, cheesecakes, and muffins. The tanginess of the cream cheese complements the sweet, spiced pumpkin, creating a balanced flavor that’s both comforting and rich. In this bread pudding, the cream cheese mixture adds a decadent layer that elevates the entire dish, making it a standout dessert.

Using brioche bread enhances the creaminess of the custard, while the combination of spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice—brings warmth and depth to the dish.

The Secret to Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bread Pudding

The key to achieving the perfect texture is to layer the brioche and custard properly, ensuring that each slice of bread is fully soaked in the rich pumpkin custard. Using a water bath during baking helps the bread pudding cook evenly, ensuring that the custard sets perfectly without curdling or drying out. Allowing the pudding to cool slightly after baking also helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.

For an extra touch of indulgence, you can serve this bread pudding with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.

The History of Bread Pudding and Its Popularity

Bread pudding is a dish that has been around for centuries, originating as a way to use up stale bread by soaking it in a sweet or savory custard and baking it. Over time, it evolved into a popular dessert, particularly in American and European cuisines. Pumpkin bread pudding, with its warm spices and creamy texture, has become a favorite during the fall season, combining the richness of traditional bread pudding with the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 12 Servings):

• Calories: 430 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 320mg

Cooking Tips

When layering the brioche in the baking dish, make sure to press down gently to ensure the bread is fully soaked in the pumpkin custard. Cutting slits through the layers helps the custard seep through, ensuring that every bite is rich and creamy. Baking the pudding in a water bath helps prevent the top from over-browning and keeps the texture silky smooth.

If you want a slightly firmer texture, refrigerate the bread pudding overnight before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the pudding will hold its shape better when sliced.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover bread pudding covered with a paper towel and plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also reheat the entire dish in the oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes, just be sure to cover it with foil to prevent the top from browning too much.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bread Pudding

Ingredients:

For the bread pudding:

• 14 to 16 1/2-inch slices brioche bread
• 2 8-oz packages cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 eggs
• 1 15-oz can pumpkin puree (plain, not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp allspice
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and set the oven rack in the middle. Spray a 9×13-inch ovenproof glass or metal baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, salt, and spices (allspice, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon). Beat with the paddle attachment until the mixture is smooth.
4. Add the cream cheese mixture to the pumpkin custard and mix until combined.
5. Pour 1/2 cup of the custard mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Tilt and swirl the dish to spread the custard evenly.
6. Layer 6 slices of brioche on top of the custard, making sure they cover the bottom of the dish. Pour half of the remaining custard mixture over the brioche layer. Then, add another layer of the remaining brioche and pour the remaining custard over the top.
7. Use a knife to cut 8 slits through the layered bread pudding. Cover the top of the pudding with plastic wrap and press down gently with your palm to ensure the bread soaks up the custard. Let the pudding sit for 15 minutes.
8. Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the pudding. Drizzle the melted butter over the brown sugar.
9. Place the baking dish in a larger roasting pan or meal pan and fill it halfway up the sides of the baking dish with hot water to create a water bath.
10. Bake the pudding in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the top is nicely browned and the custard has risen to the top of the dish. Check the water bath occasionally and add more water if needed to prevent evaporation.
11. Carefully remove the bread pudding from the oven and the water bath. Allow it to cool on a rack for about 1 hour before serving.
12. Serve slightly warm or chilled. Enjoy with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

This Pumpkin Cheesecake Bread Pudding is a rich, flavorful dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with spiced pumpkin for the perfect fall treat. It’s easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering!