Name: Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Bread Pudding:; 2 cups light cream; 3 eggs; 15 oz pumpkin puree; 1 cup brown sugar; 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1½ tsp Cinnamon; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 8 cups cinnamon raisin bread; 1 cup pecans; For Caramel Sauce:; 1¼ cups brown sugar; ½ cup butter; ½ cup heavy cream

The warmth and comfort of this pumpkin bread pudding served with a rich, velvety caramel sauce is a true culinary masterpiece. The soft, moist bread pudding is beautifully contrasted by the crunchy pecans while the pumpkin puree gives it a quintessential fall flavor. It's the perfect dessert for a chilly night in.

Photos of Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are easily found in your local supermarket, you might have to look a bit for cinnamon raisin bread. It is usually stocked with the regular bread or in the bakery section. If you can't find it, you can substitute it with any sweet bread of your choice. Also, pumpkin pie spice is a must-have for this recipe, you can find it in the spice aisle or make your own by mixing cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce

Light cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the texture of the pudding.

Eggs: They bind all the ingredients together and give the pudding structure.

Pumpkin puree: Provides a distinctive pumpkin flavor.

Brown sugar: Sweetens the pudding and the caramel sauce.

Pumpkin pie spice: Adds warmth and a traditional fall flavor.

Cinnamon: Enhances the spice profile.

Vanilla extract: Adds a depth of flavor.

Cinnamon raisin bread: The bread base of the pudding; the cinnamon and raisins add flavor.

Pecans: Gives a crunchy texture contrast.

Butter: Adds richness to the caramel sauce.

Heavy cream: Makes the caramel sauce creamy and decadent.

One reader, Ethe Wheat says:

This pumpkin bread pudding with caramel sauce recipe is a game-changer! The warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon combined with the rich, velvety caramel sauce create a heavenly dessert. It's a must-try for anyone who loves indulgent, seasonal treats. I can't wait to make it again!

Ethe Wheat

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Pumpkin Bread Pudding

How to prepare the bread pudding mixture: Combine the light cream, eggs, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a large bowl and mix well. Gently stir in the bread cubes.

How to make the caramel sauce: In a small pot over medium heat, bring the brown sugar and butter to a boil, then let it boil for about 1 minute. Remove from heat and whisk in the heavy cream. Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before pouring it over the bread pudding.

How To Make Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce

This smooth and creamy, golden-orange pumpkin bread pudding is a great Fall dessert! Whip a rich and filling serving of this in just one hour.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Bread Pudding:

2cupslight cream,or half and half
3eggs
15ozpumpkin puree
1cupbrown sugar
1½tsppumpkin pie spice
1½tspcinnamon
2tspvanilla extract
8cupscinnamon raisin bread,crusts removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
1cuppecans,chopped

For Caramel Sauce:

1¼cupsbrown sugar
½cupbutter
½cupheavy cream

Instructions

Set the bread cubes out for a few hours or place in the oven for about 5 to 10 minutes while it is preheating to allow them to dry out slightly.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large bowl, combine all the bread pudding ingredients except the bread and mix well. Gently stir in the bread cubes.
Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let sit for about 15 minutes.
Bake for about 40 minutes.
Bring the brown sugar and butter to a boil in a small pot over medium heat, then it let boil for about 1 minute. Remove from heat and whisk in the heavy cream. Allow to cool slightly.
Pour the caramel sauce over bread pudding and serve warm. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1009.23kcal
Fat: 64.54g
Saturated Fat: 32.27g
Trans Fat: 0.63g
Monounsaturated Fat: 22.48g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.01g
Carbohydrates: 101.69g
Fiber: 7.03g
Sugar: 58.98g
Protein: 12.88g
Cholesterol: 236.25mg
Sodium: 356.81mg
Calcium: 214.88mg
Potassium: 577.41mg
Iron: 3.61mg
Vitamin A: 1019.62µg
Vitamin C: 3.95mg

Crucial Technique for Achieving the Ideal Texture in Pumpkin Bread Pudding

To ensure your pumpkin bread pudding is moist and flavorful, it's important to let the bread cubes soak in the pumpkin mixture for at least 15 minutes before baking. This allows the bread to fully absorb the flavors of the pumpkin, spices, and cream. If you rush this step, the bread may not fully absorb the liquid and the end result could be dry or lacking in flavor. For an even richer taste, you could let the bread soak in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process and avoid any last-minute scrambling.

Use pre-made caramel sauce: Save time by using store-bought caramel sauce instead of making it from scratch.

Make ahead: Prepare the bread pudding the night before and refrigerate it. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy, stress-free dessert the next day.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the pecans and mix the pumpkin puree with the other ingredients for the bread pudding.

Bake in advance: Bake the bread pudding a day ahead and reheat it before serving to save time on the day of your event.

Multi-task: While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the caramel sauce to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Leftover makeover: Use leftover bread or stale bread to make the bread pudding, reducing food waste and saving time on a trip to the store.

Substitute Ingredients For Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe

light cream - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk has a similar richness and creaminess to light cream, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
cinnamon raisin bread - Substitute with challah bread: Challah bread has a slightly sweet flavor and a soft texture, which can work well as a substitute for cinnamon raisin bread in this recipe.

How to Beautifully Present This Delectable Dessert

Elevate the plating: When presenting the pumpkin bread pudding, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and carefully arrange the dish to showcase the layers and textures of the bread pudding.
Incorporate seasonal garnishes: Add a touch of seasonal flair by incorporating cinnamon sticks and whole nutmeg as garnishes. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal but also infuse the dish with warm, aromatic notes.
Utilize fine dining serveware: Opt for sophisticated serveware such as porcelain ramekins or copper baking dishes to elevate the overall presentation. The choice of serveware can enhance the perceived value of the dish.
Artful drizzling of caramel sauce: Instead of simply pouring the caramel sauce over the bread pudding, consider drizzling the sauce in an artful manner, creating elegant swirls or patterns on the plate to add a touch of finesse.
Balance and symmetry: Pay attention to the balance and symmetry of the plating. Ensure that the components of the dish are harmoniously arranged, creating a visually pleasing and balanced presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Elevate the presentation by delicately garnishing the dish with edible flowers such as marigold petals or chamomile blooms. The addition of edible flowers adds a pop of color and a touch of sophistication to the dessert.
Consider the use of gold leaf: For an opulent touch, consider incorporating edible gold leaf as a decorative element. The subtle shimmer of gold leaf can add a luxurious and extravagant aesthetic to the dessert.
Personalized plating: Tailor the plating to reflect your culinary style and creativity. Consider incorporating unique elements such as handcrafted chocolate decorations or customized dessert stencils to add a personalized touch to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Oven: An essential appliance for baking and cooking dishes at controlled temperatures.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
Baking dish: A heat-resistant dish used for baking and serving various dishes, such as casseroles and bread puddings.
Small pot: Ideal for heating and melting ingredients, such as for making caramel sauce.
Whisk: Used for blending ingredients together and incorporating air into mixtures.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of bowls and spreading batters or sauces.
Food processor: Helpful for pureeing pumpkin or other ingredients for the bread pudding.
Knife: Used for slicing and chopping ingredients, such as pecans for the bread pudding.

Storing and Freezing Pumpkin Bread Pudding for Later Enjoyment

Let the pumpkin bread pudding cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the pudding to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
For the best results, store the caramel sauce separately in a covered container in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
To freeze the bread pudding, wrap it tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label and date the package, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw the frozen pudding overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Remove the wrapping and cover the dish with foil. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
If you have leftover caramel sauce, it can be frozen separately in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pumpkin bread pudding in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the top before serving.
For a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Place individual portions of the bread pudding on microwave-safe plates and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as the pudding may become rubbery. Reheat the caramel sauce separately in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds, or until warm and pourable.
If you have a steamer basket, you can reheat the pumpkin bread pudding by placing it in the basket over a pot of simmering water. Cover the basket and steam for about 5-10 minutes, or until the pudding is heated through. This method helps to maintain the moisture in the pudding. Warm up the caramel sauce separately in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
For a crispy top, you can reheat the bread pudding under the broiler. Place the pudding in an oven-safe dish and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the top is crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Heat the caramel sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, or in the microwave, until warm.

Fascinating Fact About the Origins of Pumpkin Bread Pudding

The pumpkin bread pudding with caramel sauce recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall. It combines the warmth of pumpkin and spices with the sweetness of caramel, creating a comforting and indulgent dessert. This dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, and it's a great way to use up leftover bread. Plus, the addition of pecans adds a delightful crunch to the pudding. It's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a dessert. So, next time you have some leftover bread and pumpkin puree, consider making this delicious pumpkin bread pudding with caramel sauce.

Is Making Pumpkin Bread Pudding at Home Cost-Effective?

This pumpkin bread pudding with caramel sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the use of pumpkin puree and bread helps keep the cost low. The addition of pecans and cream adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15, making it a budget-friendly yet indulgent dessert option.

Is Pumpkin Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pumpkin bread pudding with caramel sauce recipe is undeniably delicious, but it's not the healthiest dessert option. The recipe is high in calories, sugar, and fat, with ingredients like light cream, brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. While the pumpkin puree does provide some nutrients, such as vitamin A and fiber, the overall nutritional value is overshadowed by the less healthy components.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the light cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or unsweetened almond milk
Reduce the amount of brown sugar in both the bread pudding and caramel sauce, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey
Swap out some of the butter in the caramel sauce with coconut oil, which contains healthier fats
Use whole wheat bread instead of cinnamon raisin bread to increase the fiber content
Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as ground flaxseed or chia seeds, to boost the overall nutritional value
Serve smaller portions and pair with fresh fruit to balance out the richness of the dessert

Editor's Opinion: Why This Pumpkin Bread Pudding Recipe Is a Must-Try

The combination of creamy pumpkin bread pudding and rich caramel sauce creates a delightful dessert with warm, comforting flavors. The use of cinnamon raisin bread and pecans adds a lovely texture and depth to the dish. However, to enhance the overall experience, consider adding a hint of salt to the caramel sauce to balance the sweetness. This recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall and is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Enhance Your Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash: Try serving a side of roasted butternut squash with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory complement to the pumpkin bread pudding.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: For a tangy and flavorful side, whip up some balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon for a delicious contrast to the creamy bread pudding.

Cranberry Orange Quinoa Salad: A refreshing and light cranberry orange quinoa salad with a citrus vinaigrette would provide a zesty and nutritious accompaniment to the rich and indulgent pumpkin bread pudding.

Delicious Alternatives to Pumpkin Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce

Butternut Squash Risotto: Creamy and savory risotto made with butternut squash, perfect for a cozy night in.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: Delicious and flavorful salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce.

Apple Cinnamon Crisp: Warm and comforting dessert with tender apples and a crispy cinnamon oat topping, perfect for fall.

Ideal Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve With Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a creamy mixture and baked to perfection, these bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful bruschetta bites. Topped with a variety of fresh and vibrant ingredients, these crunchy and delicious toasts are a perfect way to start any meal.

Main Courses:

Beef Stroganoff: Savor the rich and creamy flavors of a classic Russian dish, featuring tender beef and savory mushrooms in a luscious sauce. Pair it with buttery egg noodles for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a luxurious and velvety sauce draped over perfectly cooked fettuccine, topped with succulent pieces of tender chicken. This Italian-inspired dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and elegance.

Why trust this Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce Recipe:

This recipe for pumpkin bread pudding with caramel sauce is a delightful blend of warm spices and rich flavors. The use of pumpkin puree and cinnamon raisin bread ensures a moist and flavorful pudding, while the addition of pecans provides a delightful crunch. The homemade caramel sauce adds a decadent touch, elevating this dessert to a whole new level of indulgence. Trust in the combination of traditional ingredients and a modern twist to create a memorable and comforting treat.

Want to share your experience making this delectable Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of bread for the bread pudding?

Yes, you can use different types of bread for the bread pudding, such as French bread, brioche, or even regular white bread. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness and spices accordingly.

Can I make the bread pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the bread pudding ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply warm it up in the oven and drizzle with the caramel sauce.

Can I omit the pecans from the recipe?

Of course! If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer not to use pecans, feel free to omit them from the recipe. The bread pudding will still turn out delicious.

Can I use canned caramel sauce instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce if you're short on time. However, making the caramel sauce from scratch adds a homemade touch and depth of flavor to the dessert.

Can I use a different type of nuts in the bread pudding?

Certainly! You can use walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts instead of pecans. Get creative and use your favorite nuts to add a unique twist to the bread pudding.