Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding is a decadent and comforting dessert that’s filled with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, topped with a rich praline glaze. It’s not heavy or overly sweet either. I think it’s a perfect autumn or holiday dessert, and if you’re not a pumpkin fan, feel free to omit it.

It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a cozy & flavorful dessert that’s not overly sweet, you’ve come to the right place. When you make a custardy bread pudding and pair it with a buttery, nutty praline topping, you get the perfect dessert. The addition of pumpkin just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for the cozy flavors of fall, and this dreamy dessert reminds me of Thanksgiving & holidays. Not a fan of pumpkin? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious without it.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Saucepan

Ingredients:

Bread Pudding:

• 1 loaf French bread, cubed (about 8 cups)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Praline Topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Prepare the Bread:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the cubed French bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Make the Custard:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine Bread and Custard:
   • Pour the pumpkin custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing the bread down gently to ensure all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the custard.
4. Bake the Bread Pudding:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Make the Praline Topping:
   • While the bread pudding is baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and pecans, and cook until the mixture is bubbly and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Top the Bread Pudding:
   • Once the bread pudding is done, remove it from the oven and pour the praline topping evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the topping is set and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   • Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy:

This Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding is a warm and indulgent treat that’s perfect for the fall season and holidays. The combination of creamy pumpkin custard and crunchy praline topping is simply irresistible! Enjoy the cozy and delightful taste of this homemade dessert.