Warm Spiced Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Pumpkin Bread Pudding is the quintessential autumnal dessert, perfectly capturing the cozy essence of the season. Imagine tender, crusty French bread generously soaked in a rich, spiced pumpkin custard, then baked to golden perfection. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of creamy pumpkin, warm spices, and the delightful texture of bread pudding, elevated further by a decadent caramel sauce. This recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that fills your home with an irresistible aroma and your soul with comforting warmth. It’s a beloved tradition in many households, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it has become a staple for fall gatherings and holiday tables for over a decade.

Bread pudding itself is a testament to simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary, and this pumpkin variation truly shines. It embodies all the beloved flavors of autumn, from the earthy sweetness of pumpkin to the comforting blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Drizzled with a luscious caramel sauce, it becomes an utterly heavenly treat. While this recipe has been a fall favorite for over ten years, the versatility of bread pudding means you can explore other delightful versions. Consider trying our Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding for a sweet breakfast or brunch, our classic Bread and Butter Pudding Recipe for a taste of tradition, or the tropical twist of Pineapple Bread Pudding.

One of the many charms of this pumpkin bread pudding is its adaptability. You can serve it simply on its own, allowing its rich flavors to take center stage, or enhance it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly, making clever use of leftover or slightly stale bread, preventing food waste while creating a masterpiece. The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal project for a relaxing afternoon, and the baking process will infuse your entire home with the most inviting, autumnal fragrances. Beyond bread pudding, if you’re looking for other festive pumpkin desserts for Thanksgiving or any fall celebration, we highly recommend our Pumpkin Pie Cake Recipe and the incredibly easy No Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe. For a fun activity involving the little ones, our Chocolate Acorns are always a hit!

Why This Pumpkin Bread Pudding Will Become Your Fall Favorite

• Full of Irresistible Fall Flavor: This recipe is a celebration of autumn. The rich pumpkin puree, combined with a generous blend of traditional pumpkin pie spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, creates a deep, aromatic flavor profile that is perfectly balanced and utterly delicious. It’s the taste of cozy sweaters, crisp leaves, and warm gatherings all in one comforting bite.
• Economical and Frugal: Bread pudding is inherently a budget-friendly dessert. It’s an excellent way to use up day-old or slightly stale bread, preventing food waste and transforming it into something spectacular. Most of the other ingredients – eggs, milk, sugar, spices – are pantry staples you likely already have on hand, making this an affordable indulgence.
• Perfect for Make-Ahead Preparation: Life can get busy, especially during the holidays. This recipe offers incredible convenience as it can be easily prepped ahead of time. You can assemble the entire dish the day before, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, freeing up your time for other tasks or simply to relax and enjoy the season.
• Versatile and Customizable: Whether you prefer it warm with a scoop of ice cream, at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream, or even cold straight from the fridge, this bread pudding adapts beautifully. The variations section below offers even more ways to tailor it to your preferences, from adding nuts to experimenting with different breads.
• A Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: The comforting nature and familiar flavors of pumpkin bread pudding make it a universal favorite. It’s the perfect dessert to share with family and friends at holiday dinners, potlucks, or any casual get-together. Expect rave reviews and requests for the recipe!
• Fills Your Home with Wonderful Aromas: As this bread pudding bakes, your kitchen will be enveloped in the most delightful fragrance of pumpkin and warm spices. It’s an inviting aroma that instantly creates a welcoming and festive atmosphere, truly signaling the start of the fall season.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Delightful Fall Dessert

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this mouth-watering pumpkin bread pudding. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is important:

• Brown Sugar: This provides a deep, molasses-rich sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully. Packed brown sugar is ideal for accurate measurement and moisture. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even try a Homemade Brown Sugar Recipe for an extra touch.
• Granulated Sugar: Works in conjunction with brown sugar to achieve the perfect level of sweetness without overpowering the natural pumpkin flavor.
• Large Eggs: Eggs are crucial for binding the custard mixture, giving the bread pudding its signature rich, creamy texture and helping it set as it bakes. Make sure they are well beaten before adding to the mixture.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: This pre-blended spice mix typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves – the iconic flavors of fall. It’s what gives this pudding its warm, aromatic character.
• Salt: A small amount of salt enhances all the other flavors, balancing the sweetness and making the spices pop.
• Half and Half: This adds a luxurious richness and creamy consistency to the custard. It makes the bread pudding incredibly indulgent.
• Milk: Provides the necessary liquid for the custard to soak into the bread cubes, contributing to the overall moisture and tenderness of the pudding. Whole milk is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
• Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show! It’s absolutely essential to use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling already contains spices and sugar, which would throw off the balance of this recipe. Look for cans labeled “100% Pure Pumpkin” or “Pumpkin Puree” (typically 15 oz).
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds a layer of warm, sweet aroma and flavor that rounds out the spice profile.
• Crusty French Bread (16 ounces): The foundation of our bread pudding. A sturdy, crusty bread like French bread (baguette or similar artisan loaf) is perfect because it holds its shape well after soaking and baking, providing a delightful textural contrast. Day-old or slightly stale bread is actually preferred, as it absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.
• Caramel Sauce: This is a non-negotiable for serving! A generous drizzle of caramel sauce over the warm bread pudding adds an extra layer of sweetness and a sticky, luxurious finish that is truly irresistible. We highly recommend trying our Homemade Caramel Sauce Recipe for the ultimate experience, but a good quality store-bought version works too.

You can find the precise measurements for all these ingredients in the detailed recipe card at the bottom of the page.

How to Make This Easy and Delicious Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Making this pumpkin bread pudding is a straightforward process that yields incredibly impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a perfect fall dessert:

• Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your pudding is ready to bake, promoting even cooking. While the oven preheats, lightly spray a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with a non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the pudding from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Combine Dry Sweeteners and Spices. In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Use a whisk to thoroughly blend these dry ingredients together. This ensures the spices and sugars are evenly distributed throughout the pudding, preventing clumps and ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs. Once the dry ingredients are mixed, add the beaten eggs to the bowl. Continue whisking until the eggs are fully incorporated into the sugar and spice mixture. This creates a smooth base for your custard, preventing any eggy streaks in the final product.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients. Now, stir in the half and half, milk, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well combined. This is your luscious pumpkin custard base that will infuse the bread with incredible flavor and moisture. Ensure there are no lumps of pumpkin puree.

Step 5: Prepare the Bread. Take your crusty French bread and cut it into roughly 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. The size doesn’t need to be perfectly uniform, but aim for pieces that are easy to handle and will soak evenly. Place these bread cubes into a separate large mixing bowl. Using slightly stale bread is a secret tip here, as it absorbs the custard better than fresh bread.

Step 6: Combine Bread and Custard. Pour the prepared pumpkin custard mixture over the bread cubes in the large bowl. Gently toss the bread cubes to ensure they are thoroughly coated in the rich pumpkin mixture. Then, let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period is crucial, allowing the bread to fully soak up the custard, which will result in a moist and tender pudding.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish. After the bread has had a chance to soak, pour the entire mixture into your previously prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out as evenly as possible across the dish, ensuring a consistent thickness for even baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection. Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to steam the pudding initially, ensuring it cooks through and stays moist. Bake for 40 minutes with the foil on. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is beautifully browned and the pudding is set. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out mostly clean. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy! Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set a bit more. The best part is drizzling each warm serving generously with caramel sauce. Prepare for a truly delightful and comforting dessert experience!

Serving Suggestions for Your Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Pumpkin bread pudding is a versatile dessert that tastes wonderful in many ways. While it’s fantastic on its own, a few additions can elevate it to an even more memorable experience:

• Warm with Caramel: It is unequivocally best served warm, straight from the oven or gently reheated. Our absolute favorite way to enjoy it is with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce over each serving. You can use classic caramel sauce for a traditional touch, or opt for salted caramel sauce to add a sophisticated sweet and salty contrast. The warm pudding with the melting caramel is pure bliss.
• Creamy Toppings: For an extra layer of indulgence, consider topping your pumpkin bread pudding with a dollop of Homemade Whipped Cream Recipe. The light, airy cream provides a beautiful contrast to the rich pudding. Alternatively, a scoop of creamy No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream that slowly melts into the warm pudding is a match made in heaven. You could also try cinnamon or butter pecan ice cream for an extra fall twist.
• Dusting of Spice: A light dusting of extra pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, or even a touch of powdered sugar just before serving adds a lovely visual appeal and a hint more flavor.
• Candied Pecans or Walnuts: For added texture and nutty flavor, sprinkle some candied pecans or toasted walnuts over the top. This complements the warmth of the pumpkin and provides a delightful crunch.
• Pair with Beverages: This comforting dessert pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, a warm mug of spiced cider, or a glass of milk, especially on a chilly autumn evening.

Storage Tips for Leftover Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Should you be lucky enough to have leftovers (it’s hard to resist finishing it all!), proper storage will ensure your pumpkin bread pudding stays delicious for days.

• Refrigeration: Allow the bread pudding to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it just as delightful the next day.
• Serving Temperature: This bread pudding is wonderfully versatile; it’s tasty served warm or cold, straight from the fridge.
• Reheating in the Microwave: If you prefer it warm, the microwave is your quickest option. Place an individual serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the pudding dry.
• Reheating in the Oven: For a crispier top and a more uniform warmth, reheat portions in the oven. Place servings in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Uncover for the last few minutes if you desire a crispier top.
• Freezing (for longer storage): While best enjoyed fresh, pumpkin bread pudding can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as desired.

Creative Variations to Customize Your Pumpkin Bread Pudding

This pumpkin bread pudding recipe is fantastic as is, but it also serves as a wonderful canvas for creative variations. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Plain Pumpkin Puree is Key: Always ensure you buy plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie mix. The pie mix has added seasonings and sugar that will alter the flavor balance of this recipe. Starting with pure pumpkin allows you to control the spice and sweetness perfectly.
• Homemade Pumpkin Puree: For the freshest flavor, consider making homemade pumpkin puree. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare and can be easily frozen in portions, ready to use whenever you crave this delicious dessert.
• Add Nuts for Crunch: Introduce a delightful textural contrast by adding ½ to 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the bread pudding mixture before baking. The nuts toast beautifully in the oven, enhancing their flavor and adding a satisfying crunch.
• Richer Flavor with Heavy Cream: For an even more indulgent and decadent bread pudding, substitute heavy cream for the half and half. This will result in a richer, creamier custard that truly melts in your mouth.
• Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you don’t have pre-made pumpkin pie spice on hand or simply prefer to control the ratios, it’s incredibly easy to make homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice. Simply blend cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves (and a pinch of allspice if you like) to your desired taste.
• Explore Different Breads: The type of bread significantly impacts the final texture. While crusty French bread is excellent, any hearty artisan bread will work well. Consider sourdough bread for a slightly tangy note, a dense Italian loaf, or even challah bread for an extra rich and tender pudding. Ensure the bread is slightly stale for optimal absorption.
• Sweetened Dried Fruit: For a burst of sweetness and chewy texture, add ½ cup to 1 cup of dried cranberries or golden raisins to the bread mixture. They look beautiful baked into the pudding and add another layer of flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Who doesn’t love chocolate? Stir in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips with the bread cubes for a delicious pumpkin-chocolate fusion.
• Maple Glaze: Instead of caramel, consider drizzling a simple maple glaze over the warm pudding. Combine powdered sugar with a little maple syrup and milk until you reach a pourable consistency.

Pro Tips for a Flawless Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Achieve bread pudding perfection with these expert tips, designed to make your baking experience smoother and the results even more delicious:

• Softening Crusty Bread for Easy Cutting: Crusty breads can sometimes be challenging and messy to cut into cubes. To make this task easier, wrap the loaf in a plastic bag a day before you plan to use it. This will soften the crust slightly, making it much simpler to cut through without losing too many crumbs. Alternatively, you can briefly freeze the bread for 15-20 minutes to make slicing cleaner.
• The Power of Stale Bread: While tempting to use fresh bread, slightly stale bread is your best friend for bread pudding. Day-old bread is drier and acts like a sponge, soaking up the pumpkin custard more effectively without turning mushy. If your bread is very fresh, you can cut it into cubes and let it air dry on a baking sheet for a few hours, or even toast it lightly in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until just dry, but not browned.
• Make-Ahead for Convenience: This dish is a fantastic option for meal prep or entertaining. You can fully assemble the bread pudding (combining the soaked bread and custard in the baking dish) the day before. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to take off the chill, then bake as directed. This makes holiday entertaining significantly less stressful.
• Uncover for a Golden Top: Don’t forget the final step of baking! Removing the aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking is essential. This allows the top of the bread pudding to brown beautifully and develop a delightful, slightly crisp texture that contrasts wonderfully with the soft interior.
• Achieving the Right “Wetness” (Custard Consistency): The amount of liquid in bread pudding can be a matter of personal preference. If you enjoy a bread pudding that is particularly moist or “wet” (more custard-like), you can add an extra ½ cup of liquid to the custard mixture. Options include milk, heavy cream, or half and half. However, be aware that adding extra liquid will result in a pudding that is softer and may not set up as firmly as the original recipe. Adjusting liquid can also slightly increase baking time.
• Doneness Test: To check if your bread pudding is fully cooked, insert a thin knife or skewer into the center. If it comes out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs, your pudding is ready. If it’s still very wet, continue baking for a few more minutes.
• Cooling Time Matters: While tempting to dive in immediately, allowing the bread pudding to cool for at least 10-15 minutes after baking allows the custard to set further and makes for cleaner serving.

More Easy Pumpkin Recipes to Savor This Fall

If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting flavors of pumpkin, you’ll be delighted to explore these other simple and delicious pumpkin-inspired recipes:

• Pumpkin Pie Cake: A delightful combination of pumpkin pie and cake, offering a moist and flavorful dessert that’s easier than making a full pie.
• Salted Caramel Pumpkin Pie: A classic pumpkin pie elevated with a luscious salted caramel topping, providing a perfect balance of sweet and salty.
• Easy Pumpkin Delight Recipe: A layered dessert featuring a creamy pumpkin filling, a crispy crust, and a fluffy whipped topping. Simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Pumpkin Pie Tacos: A fun and creative twist on pumpkin pie, served in crispy cinnamon-sugar “taco shells.” Perfect for a unique fall treat.
• Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A foolproof recipe for the traditional Thanksgiving staple, ensuring a perfectly spiced and creamy pie every time.
• Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins Recipe: A festive and kid-friendly no-bake treat, shaped like adorable pumpkins and perfect for Halloween or fall parties.

As you can see, this Pumpkin Bread Pudding recipe is incredibly easy to follow, requires a simple list of ingredients, and is a breeze to prepare. It’s truly the perfect fall dessert to enjoy with loved ones. Make it today, and don’t forget to come back and leave a comment sharing your experience!

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Pumpkin Bread Pudding made from crusty French Bread and layered with pumpkin custard is the perfect Fall dessert. It’s served with caramel sauce for a luscious treat.

Prep Time
15 mins

Cook Time
55 mins

Total Time
1 hr 10 mins

Servings
12

Cuisine
American

Course
Dessert

Calories
263

Author
Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar packed
• 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
• 5 Large Eggs beaten
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1 1/2 cups Half and Half
• 1 cup Milk
• 1 can Pumpkin Puree 15 oz
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 Loaf Crusty French Bread 16 ounces
• Caramel Sauce for serving

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9X13 baking dish with a non-stick cooking spray.
• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice and salt.
• Then whisk in the beaten eggs. Stir in the half and half, milk, pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
• Dice the bread into 1-inch pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
• Pour the pumpkin mixture over the bread pieces and gently toss them to coat the bread in the pumpkin mixture. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes for the bread to soak up the mixture.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out to be as evenly as possible.
• Cover the pan with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is browned and the bread pudding is set.
• Serve with the caramel sauce drizzled on top and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 263kcal,
Carbohydrates: 43g,
Protein: 8g,
Fat: 7g,
Saturated Fat: 3g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g,
Trans Fat: 0.01g,
Cholesterol: 81mg,
Sodium: 333mg,
Potassium: 231mg,
Fiber: 2g,
Sugar: 23g,
Vitamin A: 5756IU,
Vitamin C: 2mg,
Calcium: 109mg,
Iron: 3mg