Easy Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe with Caramel and Whipped Cream for Ultimate Comfort

As the crisp autumn air rolls in and pumpkins start to grace every storefront, there's no better way to celebrate fall than with a warm, comforting dessert like pumpkin bread pudding. This recipe combines soft, custard-soaked bread with the rich flavor of pumpkin and spices, all drizzled in caramel sauce for a heavenly treat. Whether you're serving it after a holiday dinner or indulging with a cozy cup of coffee, this dessert will have everyone asking for seconds.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

This particular recipe is one I found from Insanely Good Recipes, and I knew I had to share it with you! It's simple to make, packed with flavor, and the perfect dessert for any fall gathering. Plus, it's easy to customize with your favorite toppings like whipped cream or ice cream.

A Special Tradition

Pumpkin bread pudding has always been a staple in my kitchen during the fall. The first time I tried it was at a family gathering where my grandmother served her version, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Every bite feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, combining the sweetness of pumpkin with the comforting texture of custard-soaked bread. It's a recipe that quickly became a tradition, and now, I’m excited to pass it on to you.

The Origins of Bread Pudding

Bread pudding has a rich history, originating as a clever way to use up stale bread in various cultures around the world. Over time, it has evolved from a humble dish to a gourmet dessert with endless variations. In this recipe, we’ve added a fall twist by using pumpkin puree and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, creating the ultimate comfort food.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf stale brioche or challah bread (about 6 to 8 cups when cubed)
• 1 (15-ounce) can 100% pumpkin puree
• 1 1⁄2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1⁄2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• Caramel sauce, whipped cream, or ice cream for serving

Instructions:

1. Prep the Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, arrange the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Let the bread cool.
2. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, milk, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, egg yolks, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is smooth.
3. Assemble the Pudding: Place the bread cubes into the prepared baking dish, then pour the pumpkin custard mixture over the top. Gently press the bread down to ensure it's evenly soaked. Cover the dish and let it soak for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or overnight in the fridge for best results.
4. Bake: Remove the plastic wrap and bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is set and lightly golden.
5. Serve: Let the bread pudding cool for about 10-15 minutes. Then drizzle with caramel sauce and serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding:

• Use stale bread: Fresh bread will get soggy. For the perfect texture, ensure the bread is stale and dry to soak up the custard.
• Overnight soak: For maximum flavor and texture, refrigerate the assembled bread pudding overnight, allowing the custard to fully penetrate the bread.
• Room temperature before baking: If you refrigerate it overnight, be sure to let the dish warm to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before popping it in the oven.

Delicious Variations:

• Gluten-free: Swap the brioche or challah for your favorite gluten-free bread to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based milk and cream, and replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water for each egg).
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cloves or cardamom for an extra layer of spice, or sprinkle chopped nuts on top for some crunch.

Pairings and Serving Suggestions:

This pumpkin bread pudding is amazing served warm, but it's even better when paired with caramel sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. To elevate it even more, try garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of sea salt on the caramel for that perfect sweet-salty combination.

Final Thoughts

This pumpkin bread pudding is sure to become a favorite in your fall dessert rotation. It's rich, flavorful, and easy to make, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. If you try this recipe, leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out! And don't forget to share it with friends who love pumpkin-flavored treats. Follow me for more delicious recipes like this one!