When the crisp air of fall begins to settle in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, fragrant Pumpkin Bread Pudding to bring comfort to your kitchen. This recipe is the perfect balance of rich custard, sweet pumpkin purée, cinnamon spice, and soft bread soaked in creamy goodness. It’s a dessert that celebrates the coziness of autumn — with every spoonful bursting with nostalgic flavor.
Pumpkin Bread Pudding combines the classic custard-style pudding texture with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin pie. It’s a delicious way to use up leftover bread and transform it into a show-stopping dessert. Whether you serve it warm from the oven with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, this pudding delivers pure fall satisfaction.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to prepare the perfect pumpkin bread pudding from scratch — with helpful tips, variations, and serving suggestions that will make this recipe a favorite at every fall gathering.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ?
This Pumpkin Bread Pudding isn’t just another fall dessert — it’s a comforting experience. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:
- 🍂 Perfectly Spiced: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves gives this dish that classic pumpkin-pie flavor everyone craves.
- 🥖 A Great Way to Use Stale Bread: Slightly dry bread works best for soaking up the custard mixture — meaning no waste and maximum flavor.
- 🍮 Creamy Yet Fluffy Texture: Soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the top — the contrast makes every bite irresistible.
- 🕒 Simple & Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble it in advance and bake when needed. Perfect for busy holidays!
- 🎃 A Fall Favorite for All Ages: Even non-pumpkin lovers will be tempted by its rich, caramelized aroma.
Ingredients
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
¾ cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for greasing the pan)
½ cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
Whipped cream or caramel sauce for serving
Instructions – Step By Step
Cut your day-old bread into cubes (about 1-inch pieces). Spread them evenly in a greased baking dish. Using slightly stale bread ensures it soaks up the custard perfectly without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cream, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the spices — cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt — and whisk again until the mixture is smooth and aromatic.
Step 3: Combine the Bread and Custard
Pour the pumpkin custard mixture over the bread cubes. Use a spatula to gently press the bread into the liquid so each piece absorbs the mixture. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes so the bread becomes fully saturated.
Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients
If you’d like to include raisins or pecans, sprinkle them evenly over the mixture before baking. They’ll add a lovely texture contrast and extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pudding uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set but slightly soft in the center.
Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving warm. For the perfect finishing touch, top it with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
🍁 Variations
- Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Pudding: Add ½ cup chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Bourbon Pumpkin Bread Pudding: Stir 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon into the custard for a bold adult flavor.
- Maple Pumpkin Bread Pudding: Replace half the sugar with pure maple syrup for extra richness.
- Vegan Version: Substitute coconut milk for cream, use flax eggs, and vegan bread for a plant-based treat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap in your favorite gluten-free bread and reduce soaking time slightly.
🍽️ Cooking Note
- Always use day-old or slightly stale bread. Fresh bread makes the pudding soggy.
- Allowing the mixture to sit before baking ensures an even custard texture.
- For extra crispness on top, sprinkle a tablespoon of sugar before baking.
🥄 Serving Suggestions
This Pumpkin Bread Pudding tastes heavenly on its own, but a few accompaniments can elevate it to restaurant-level dessert:
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Add a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for contrast.
- Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon for visual appeal.
- Pair with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced chai for the ultimate cozy vibe.
💡 Helpful Tips
- Let the pudding rest for at least 10 minutes before serving — this helps it set.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings; it reheats beautifully.
- For individual servings, bake the mixture in small ramekins for 25–30 minutes.
- Always taste your pumpkin puree — unsweetened varieties work best so you can control the sweetness.
🧁 Tips for the Best Pumpkin Bread Pudding
- Choose the Right Bread: Brioche, challah, or French bread works best for a luxurious texture.
- Balance Sweetness and Spice: Taste the custard mixture before baking — adjust sugar or spice levels if needed.
- Avoid Overbaking: Remove from the oven when the center is just set; overbaking will make it dry.
- Add Texture Layers: Nuts, chocolate, or dried fruit can add extra flavor depth.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
⏰ Timing Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 340
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 210mg
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can I make Pumpkin Bread Pudding ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
Q2: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before serving.
Q3: What kind of bread works best?
Brioche, challah, or French bread hold up beautifully when soaked in custard.
Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, replace the milk and cream with coconut or almond milk. It’s still creamy and flavorful!
Q5: Why is my pudding soggy?
Too much liquid or overly fresh bread can cause sogginess. Use stale bread and follow the soak time.
🧡 Conclusion
Pumpkin Bread Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert that embodies everything we love about fall — warmth, spice, and sweetness. With its creamy custard base, soft bread, and pumpkin flavor enhanced by cozy spices, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, family gatherings, or a simple weekend treat, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether topped with caramel sauce, ice cream, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar, every bite feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
So, grab that leftover bread and a can of pumpkin — it’s time to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of homemade Pumpkin Bread Pudding! 🎃
