If you’re a fan of classic bread pudding and love all things pumpkin, this Pumpkin Bread Pudding is the ultimate dessert for you. Combining rich, custardy bread pudding with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, this recipe is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. It’s a simple dessert that’s easy to prepare but feels indulgent and comforting, making it ideal for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or just a cozy treat at home.
Pumpkin Bread Pudding
I adore this recipe because it combines the best of both worlds—soft, custardy bread pudding and the comforting taste of pumpkin pie. The pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create a fragrant and flavorful custard that soaks into cubes of bread. Once baked, the top becomes golden and slightly crisp, while the inside remains soft and luscious. This dish is perfect served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
This pumpkin bread pudding is especially delicious when paired with a warm drink like Pumpkin Spice Latte or served alongside a fall meal like Autumn Spinach Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or a cozy breakfast treat, it’s sure to become a fall favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe
- Warm and Cozy Flavors: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves makes this bread pudding taste like autumn in every bite.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dessert comes together quickly and easily.
- Perfect for Holidays: This is a great dessert for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering, offering a unique twist on traditional pumpkin pie.
- Versatile: You can enjoy this bread pudding on its own, or add extras like whipped cream, caramel sauce, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Main Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread Pudding
- Day-Old Bread – I recommend using a hearty bread like challah, brioche, or French bread for the best texture. The bread should be slightly stale to absorb the custard better.
- Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient, pumpkin puree gives this bread pudding its signature flavor and creamy texture.
- Eggs – Eggs help bind the bread pudding together and create that rich, custardy texture.
- Milk and Cream – A mixture of milk and cream adds richness to the custard, making it extra luscious.
- Sugar – Brown sugar adds a deep caramel flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- Spices – A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger adds warmth and spice to the custard.
- Vanilla Extract – Vanilla enhances the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness to the bread pudding.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe
Here’s how to make this cozy, flavorful pumpkin bread pudding step by step:
- Prepare the Bread: Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet. If the bread isn’t already stale, you can dry it out in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes until slightly crisp. This helps the bread absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
- Tip: Challah or brioche are excellent choices for this recipe, but any sturdy bread will work.
- Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup pumpkin puree, 4 large eggs, 1 cup milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon cloves, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture.
- Assemble the Bread Pudding: Place the bread cubes in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the pumpkin custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing the cubes down gently to ensure they soak up the liquid. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to absorb.
- Variation: You can add extras like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries to the bread mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread pudding for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The center should be slightly soft but not jiggly.
- Tip: For a crispier top, you can sprinkle a little extra brown sugar on top of the bread pudding before baking.
- Serve: Once baked, let the bread pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, topped with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Serving Idea: Pair this dessert with a warm drink like my Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe or Cinnamon Twisted Donuts Recipe for the ultimate fall dessert experience.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Make it Dairy-Free: You can substitute almond milk or coconut milk for the dairy in this recipe, and use a dairy-free butter substitute.
- Add Some Crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the bread pudding before baking.
- How to Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- How to Freeze: Pumpkin bread pudding freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin Bread Pudding
Pumpkin bread pudding not only tastes delicious but also provides some nutritional benefits, thanks to the pumpkin. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, both of which support immune health and promote healthy skin. The eggs and milk in the custard add protein, while the bread provides carbohydrates for energy. While this dish is indulgent, it also offers some nourishing elements.
- Rich in Vitamin A: Pumpkin is packed with beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body and supports eye health and immune function.
- Good Source of Protein: The eggs and milk in this recipe add a decent amount of protein, making this dessert a bit more satisfying.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: You can use whole wheat bread or reduce the sugar for a lighter version of this dessert
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