There is something absolutely magical about the cozy flavors of autumn wrapped up in a single dessert, and the Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding with Caramel Pecan Sauce Recipe is just that kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug. This dish takes humble bread and transforms it with creamy pumpkin custard and a rich, buttery caramel pecan sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your holiday table or craving a luscious treat on a chilly evening, this pumpkin praline bread pudding has got you covered with deep flavors, wonderful textures, and a sprinkle of nostalgia.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A single piece of sticky caramel roll sits on a white scalloped plate, showing two visible layers of soft, golden-brown pastry swirled with a rich orange caramel sauce. The top layer is thickly coated with a shiny caramel glaze mixed with chopped pecans, giving a bumpy texture on top. The caramel sauce pools loosely around the base of the roll on the plate, enhancing the warm orange-brown color contrast. The background features a white marbled surface with a white baking dish blurred out, adding soft depth. A gold spoon rests on the plate’s left side, its handle pointing outward. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every successful dish starts with simple, high-quality ingredients that work together to create something extraordinary. The ingredients here are straightforward but essential, ensuring your Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding with Caramel Pecan Sauce Recipe turns out perfectly every time.

Bread (1 lb. loaf – Brioche, French, or Challah): Slightly stale is best as it soaks up the custard perfectly without falling apart.
Heavy Cream (1 1/2 cups): Adds richness and a luxurious texture to the custard.
Whole Milk or Half-n-Half (1 cup): Balances the creaminess with a lighter touch.
Large Eggs (4): Essential for binding and creating that silky custard.
Pure Pumpkin Puree (15-ounce can): The star flavor—make sure it’s 100% pumpkin for authenticity.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the warm flavors and adds depth.
Pumpkin Spice (1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons): The perfect blend of warming spices to complement pumpkin.
Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant spice boost that brightens the pudding.
Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the custard flawlessly.
Brown Sugar (1 cup for pudding, 1 1/2 cups for sauce): Gives a rich molasses flavor both in the pudding and sauce.
Salted Butter (1/2 cup): For a deep buttery richness in the pecan sauce.
Pecans (1 to 1 1/2 cups): Adds crunch and nutty indulgence in the praline sauce.

How to Make Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding with Caramel Pecan Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Begin by cutting your loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes; this size is perfect to soak up all that glorious custard without turning mushy. Using bread that’s a bit stale works wonders here because it absorbs the liquid better, meaning every bite is creamy and tender. Spread the cubes evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish — this will be your bread pudding’s cozy home as it bakes.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon until everything is perfectly combined. Pour this flavorful custard over the bread cubes, making sure every piece gets generously soaked. This step is where the magic happens, as the bread absorbs all that wonderful pumpkin goodness.

Step 3: Chill

Cover the baking dish tightly and pop it into the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes. This resting period is crucial because it allows the bread to fully soak up the custard, making the pudding luscious and custardy when baked.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the pudding covered for 45 to 55 minutes to let the custard set, then remove the cover and bake for another 8 to 12 minutes to get a lightly golden, slightly crisp top. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be just about irresistible! Let the pudding rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 5: Make the Caramel Pecan Sauce

Over medium heat, melt butter in a heavy-bottom saucepan. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream and whisk continuously as the mixture melts and blends. Bring to a gentle boil, allowing it to bubble for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken. Remove from heat and stir in the pecans for that signature praline crunch and flavor. This sauce is luscious, sticky, and elevates the bread pudding to the next level.

Step 6: Serve

Drizzle the warm caramel pecan sauce generously over slices of the bread pudding. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes so the flavors settle, then serve your slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream if you’re feeling decadent. Every bite is a celebration of fall and comfort.

How to Serve Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding with Caramel Pecan Sauce Recipe

A white scalloped round plate holds a sticky dessert with three visible layers: a bottom layer of golden brown baked dough, a middle layer of soft, slightly darker baked dough, and a top layer thickly covered with shiny caramel sauce mixed with whole pecans. A golden spoon with a scoop of the dessert rests on the plate, showing the gooey texture and caramel dripping slightly. The background is a white marbled surface with blurred kitchen items in the distance. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top this dessert with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon for that extra cozy touch. A swirl of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream adds creaminess and makes the dish truly irresistible.

Side Dishes

This bread pudding pairs marvelously with a hot cup of spiced apple cider or a robust coffee to balance its sweetness. For a more festive occasion, serve alongside roasted autumn fruits like spiced pears or baked apples to round out the flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, consider serving the pudding in individual ramekins with sauce drizzled over each portion. Or transform it into a parfait by layering cubes with sauce and whipped cream in clear glasses — a lovely way to wow guests with stunning presentation and layers of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover bread pudding tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days without losing its sweetness or texture.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding with Caramel Pecan Sauce Recipe for longer, it freezes beautifully. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Add extra caramel pecan sauce on top after reheating to refresh those rich, buttery flavors.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! Brioche, French bread, or Challah work wonderfully due to their texture and flavor, but feel free to experiment with other sturdy breads. Avoid very soft or sweet breads to prevent sogginess.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the custard-soaked bread before baking?

Yes, chilling allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a creamier and more cohesive bread pudding.

Can I make this bread pudding dairy-free?

You can swap heavy cream and milk for coconut cream or any plant-based milk, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor might differ slightly. Using dairy-free butter replacements also works for the caramel pecan sauce.

How do I prevent the bread pudding from becoming too soggy?

Using slightly stale bread and chilling before baking help absorb the custard just right. Also, baking uncovered for the last part helps set the custard and develop a nice crust.

Can the caramel pecan sauce be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead and simply warm it gently before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even more beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There is simply no better way to celebrate the flavors of fall than with this Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding with Caramel Pecan Sauce Recipe. It’s comforting, indulgent, and full of rich textures and warm spices that feel like a little celebration on a plate. I encourage you to try this recipe soon – whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy weekend treat – and watch it become an instant favorite in your home.