Prepare the Bread Pudding:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb the liquid.
Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
Make the Pecan Topping:
While the pudding bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup, cooking until smooth and bubbly (about 2–3 minutes).
Add the chopped pecans, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and remove from heat.
Assemble and Serve:
Remove the bread pudding from the oven and drizzle the warm pecan topping evenly over the surface.
Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Recipe Tips
Use slightly stale bread for better texture; fresh bread can become mushy.
Adjust the sweetness to your liking by reducing the brown sugar in the custard or topping.
For added flavor, sprinkle some chopped pecans into the bread mixture before baking.
What to Serve With This Recipe
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream complements the richness.
Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent dessert.
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful finish to any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the bread pudding and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 12 hours. Add the pecan topping just before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Yes! French bread, challah, or croissants work beautifully in this recipe.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pecan Pie Bread Pudding is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve it warm with ice cream for a dessert your guests won’t forget, or enjoy a slice as a comforting treat any time of the day.