Name: Decadent Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding for Your Thanksgiving Table
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 pound day-old bread (French, Italian, or Challah) (use day-old bread for optimal absorption); 1 cup heavy cream (adds richness; whipping cream can be substituted); 1 cup half and half (can substitute with whole milk for a lighter option); 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree (provides flavor and moisture); 1.5 cups granulated sugar (or swap for brown sugar for a deeper flavor); 3 tablespoons melted butter (adds richness and helps bind the mixture); 4 large eggs (provides structure and sets the pudding); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (infuses it with holiday flavors); 1 cup unsalted butter (for richness in the sauce); 1 cup heavy cream (for a creamy texture); 1 cup brown sugar (adds sweetness and caramel flavor); 0.5 cup chopped toasted pecans (provides crunch); spices (for sauce) (cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, ground cloves, and ground allspice)

As I sifted through my spice cabinet, a delightful aroma of autumn spices wafted through the air, igniting memories of cozy gatherings. This is the moment I knew I had to share my beloved Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding, an indulgent dessert that shines as an alternative to traditional pumpkin pie. Effortlessly blending creamy pumpkin with a crunchy pecan praline topping, it’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a quick-prep option that’s bound to impress your guests this Thanksgiving. Best of all, it can be made ahead, allowing you to savor every moment with family and friends. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game this holiday season?

Why is Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding a Must-Try?

Comforting and Cozy: This Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding perfectly captures the essence of fall with its warm, inviting flavors and textures, making it a go-to dessert for Thanksgiving.

Effortless Preparation: Unlike a traditional pie, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. Just mix, bake, and serve—no special skills required!

Crowd Favorite: Bring smiles to your gatherings as this dessert appeals to children and adults alike, making it a fantastic centerpiece on your Thanksgiving table.

Make-Ahead Marvel: You can prepare this delightful dish in advance, freeing you up to enjoy quality time with loved ones while still delivering an indulgent treat.

Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to personalize the praline sauce with a splash of bourbon or even switch out the pecans for walnuts—the options are as endless as your creativity!

Don’t forget to try this with a dash of spice, just like in my Mango Coconut Pudding for a delightful twist!

Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding Ingredients

• Here’s what you need to create this delightful Thanksgiving dessert!

For the Bread Pudding

Day-Old Bread – 1-pound loaf (French, Italian, or Challah); use day-old bread for optimal absorption.
Heavy Cream – 1 cup; adds richness and creaminess, but you can substitute with whipping cream if needed.
Half and Half – 1 cup; enhances creaminess without being too heavy—whole milk works as a lighter option.
Pumpkin Puree – 1 (15-ounce) can; it provides flavor and moisture, and pureed butternut squash is a nice alternative.
Granulated Sugar – 1-1/2 cups; sweetens the dish, or swap for brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Melted Butter – 3 tablespoons; adds richness and helps bind the mixture together.
Eggs – 4 large; helps provide structure and sets the pudding.
Vanilla Extract – 2 teaspoons; adds depth of flavor.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – 1 tablespoon; infuses it with holiday flavors; you can blend your own mix from common spices.

For the Praline Sauce

Unsalted Butter – 1 cup; for richness in the sauce.
Heavy Cream – 1 cup; for a creamy texture.
Brown Sugar – 1 cup; adds sweetness and a delightful caramel flavor.
Chopped Toasted Pecans – 1/2 cup; provides crunch and complements the sauce beautifully.
Spices (for sauce) – Cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, ground cloves, and ground allspice; enhance the overall flavor profile.

Ready to make your rich Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding? Grab these ingredients, and let’s bake something incredible together!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This ensures that the Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding will easily release from the dish once baked, making it easier to serve.

Step 2: Tear the Bread
Take your day-old bread and tear it into small bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch in size. Spread the torn bread evenly across the greased baking dish. Make sure the pieces are scattered well to achieve a uniform texture in your bread pudding, allowing for optimal absorption of the custard mixture.

Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, half and half, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Use a whisk to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. This rich custard will infuse your bread with delightful flavors.

Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the creamy pumpkin custard evenly over the torn bread pieces in the baking dish. Gently press the bread down with your hands or a spatula to ensure that every piece becomes saturated with the custard. Let it sit for 10 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid for a rich, moist texture.

Step 5: Bake the Pudding
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding for about 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the pudding feels set but slightly wobbly in the center. This gives that perfect creamy texture, just like old-fashioned bread pudding.

Step 6: Prepare the Praline Sauce
While the pudding is baking, it’s time to make your praline sauce. In a saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, heavy cream, and brown sugar. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar. Once it starts boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 7: Add Pecans and Spices
After the praline sauce has thickened, stir in the chopped toasted pecans along with the spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice. Allow it to simmer on low for an additional minute, infusing the sauce with rich flavors that will beautifully complement the Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding.

Step 8: Serve Optimally
Once the pudding has cooled slightly, scoop it into bowls while still warm and drizzle generously with the warm praline sauce. For an extra festive touch, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside. Dive into this warm slice of comfort!

Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding Variations

Feel free to unleash your inner chef by customizing this delicious treat with these fun ideas!

Nut-Free: Omit pecans and replace with sunflower seeds for a crunchy alternative that still adds texture.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread options to make this dessert safe for everyone at your table. Just ensure the bread is stale for the best absorption!
Bourbon-Infused: Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon in the praline sauce for a delightful twist that enhances the warm flavors beautifully.
Maple Sweetened: Swap granulated sugar for pure maple syrup in both the pudding and the sauce for a subtly sweet variation that brings rustic charm to every bite.
Spiced Up: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a teaspoon of ginger or cardamom to the pumpkin mixture for an exciting kick of spiciness.
Butternut Squash: Substitute pumpkin puree with pureed butternut squash for a sweeter, lighter taste while maintaining that creamy texture.
Creamy Coconut: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical flavor that complements the fall spices perfectly. Pair this with my Mango Coconut Pudding for a delightful dessert table!

Explore these variations to put your unique spin on the rich Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding, making each celebration unforgettable!

Make Ahead Options

These rich Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding are perfect for meal prep, making your Thanksgiving stress-free! You can prepare the entire bread pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly and refrigerating it to maintain its freshness. To do this, simply tear the bread, mix in the custard, and let it soak overnight. When you’re ready to serve, bake it directly from the refrigerator; just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time. For the praline sauce, it’s best to make this shortly before serving to keep the sauce creamy and fresh. Follow these steps and enjoy a warm, crowd-pleasing dessert with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

Creating a memorable Thanksgiving feast goes beyond the main course—it’s about crafting a complete dining experience.

Whipped Cream: A generous dollop on top adds airy sweetness, balancing the richness of the bread pudding.
Vanilla Ice Cream: This silky treat melts into the warm pudding, elevating the flavors with its creamy texture.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberries cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast that brightens every bite.
Hot Apple Cider: Serve this warm, spiced beverage alongside for a cozy, fall-inspired pairing that enhances your gathering’s atmosphere.
Maple Pecans: Sprinkle these on top for an added crunch, complementing the pudding while echoing the luscious pecan flavors in the praline sauce.
Coffee or Tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai will round out your meal, cleaning the palate between bites of this decadent dessert.

Embrace the autumn vibes with these delightful pairings, making your Thanksgiving not just a meal, but a heartwarming celebration!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

Use Day-Old Bread: Ensure you use day-old bread for maximum absorption; fresh bread won’t soak up the custard as well, leading to a soggier texture.
Mix Carefully: Avoid over-mixing the bread and custard; gentle folding helps maintain a light texture in your Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding.
Soak Time Matters: Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes before baking, so every piece of bread is fully saturated for a moist outcome.
Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens vary, so check for a golden top and slightly wobbly center to avoid drying it out.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the pudding the day before; just make the praline sauce closer to serving time to retain its texture and freshness.

Storage Tips for Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

Fridge: Store any leftover Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves its creamy texture and distinctive flavors.

Freezer: If you want to make it ahead, you can freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Drizzle with the praline sauce for that fresh-baked taste!

Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using day-old bread like French, Italian, or Challah, as it absorbs the custard mixture beautifully. If you don’t have those, brioche or sourdough can also work well.

How long can you store Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding in the fridge?
You can store your leftover Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep its creamy texture and luxurious flavors intact.

Can you freeze Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding?
Yes, indeed! For longer storage, freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my bread pudding is too soggy?
If you find your bread pudding is too soggy, try reducing the amount of liquid next time, or ensure you’re using day-old bread that has dried out a bit. Additionally, letting the mixture sit for 10 minutes before baking allows for better absorption, which can help prevent sogginess.

Is Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! You can easily make this pumpkin bread pudding gluten-free by using gluten-free bread options available in stores. Just make sure to check the ingredients, especially in the other components like the spices and sauces.

Can pets eat Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding?
It’s important to keep this treat away from pets, as the ingredients like sugar, heavy cream, and spices are not suitable for them. It’s always best to stick to pet-friendly snacks to ensure their health and safety!