Pumpkin Bread Pudding
A warm and comforting dessert that captures the essence of autumn with rich brioche, creamy pumpkin, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf 14-oz. loaf brioche Tender and buttery, ideal for soaking in custard
- 1 tbsp Butter For greasing the pan
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar Adding a deep caramel sweetness
- 3 large egg yolks Offering a rich custard texture
- 2 large eggs Creating a delicate structure
- 1 can 15-oz. pumpkin puree Providing that signature fall flavor
- 1 1/2 cups milk Creamy and comforting
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream For richness and decadence
- 1/4 cup bourbon Optional for depth
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract Aromatic and warm
- 1 tsp cinnamon Fragrant and essential in fall baking
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt Balancing the sweetness
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg Enhancing the seasonal flavor profile
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger Adding warmth to the mix
- to taste Caramel For serving, bringing the dish together
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by cutting your brioche into 1-inch cubes. For best results, allow them to dry overnight to create a crusty exterior that will soak up the custard beautifully.
- Alternatively, bake them at 200°F for about 20 minutes if you're short on time.
Making the Custard
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, egg yolks, and eggs until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Add in the pumpkin puree, milk, heavy cream, optional bourbon, vanilla extract, and spices. Stir everything well and then gently fold in the bread cubes, allowing them to soak for about 10 minutes.
Baking
- Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
Serving
- After baking, let the pumpkin bread pudding cool for about 20 minutes. Slice it up and drizzle warm caramel on top before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, consider using whole milk or a non-dairy milk alternative. Substituting half the heavy cream with Greek yogurt adds protein without compromising creaminess. You can also add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for variety.