Description
This comforting Pumpkin Bread Pudding recipe combines the warm flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice with chewy French bread and sweet raisins. Baked to perfection, it’s a cozy dessert or breakfast option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
Bread and Fruit
- 1 large loaf French bread (about 12 inches), cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1/4 cup raisins
Pudding Mixture
- 15 oz can pumpkin puree
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups milk
Instructions
- Prepare Bread: Cut a day-old loaf of French bread into one-inch chunks and place them in a large glass casserole dish that has been coated with non-stick cooking spray. Evenly sprinkle the raisins over the bread chunks.
- Mix Pumpkin Custard: In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Stir until all ingredients are well blended. Whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Soak Bread Cubes: Pour the pumpkin and milk custard mixture evenly over the bread chunks in the casserole dish. Gently stir to ensure all bread pieces are coated. Let the mixture soak while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The bread pudding is done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly. Serve warm with optional toppings such as maple syrup, whipped cream, vanilla yogurt, or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
Notes
- Using day-old French bread helps absorb the custard better without turning mushy.
- Feel free to substitute raisins with chopped nuts or dried cranberries for variety.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute half the milk with cream or evaporated milk.
- Make sure to check the pudding around 40 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; just warm before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
