Name: Easy Pecan Pie Bread Pudding With Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf day-old Artisan French Bread or 15 slices of Chateau Bread Dumplings (cubed); 5 eggs; 2 cups 2% milk; 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1 cup sugar; 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup butter; 1 1/2 cups brown sugar; 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 1/2 cups shelled pecan halves; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup corn syrup; 2 Tablespoons butter; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt flakes

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 1 review

If you are looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the rich, nutty charm of pecan pie with the comforting warmth of bread pudding, look no further. This Easy Pecan Pie Bread Pudding With Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, offering a luscious custardy texture infused with buttery pecans and a drizzle of homemade salted caramel that elevates every bite. Whether it is a festive occasion or a cozy weekend treat, this dessert wraps all those decadent flavors into one irresistible dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up view of a smooth caramel sauce filled with many whole pecans in it. The sauce is a warm light brown color with a glossy texture, while the pecans are a mix of reddish-brown and darker brown, sitting mostly whole and partially submerged throughout the sauce. At the top left corner, a wooden spoon is partially visible, stirring the thick caramel and pecan mixture. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Believe it or not, the magic of this recipe lies in a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create extraordinary flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the sturdy bread that soaks up the custard to the pecans that add a satisfying crunch and the silky salted caramel that completes the experience.

Artisan French Bread or Chateau Bread Dumplings (cubed): Using day-old bread ensures it absorbs the custard perfectly without turning mushy.
Eggs: These create the rich custard base that binds the pudding together.
2% Milk and Heavy Whipping Cream: Combining these adds creaminess and moisture for that luscious texture.
Sugar: Sweetens the custard and balances the flavors.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a fragrant warmth and depth to the custard mixture.
Butter and Brown Sugar: These form the caramel-pecan topping that brings richness and sweetness.
Shelled Pecan Halves: Essential for the signature crunch and nutty flavor of pecan pie.
Corn Syrup, Salt Flakes: Key ingredients in the salted caramel sauce, providing a perfect sweet-salty finish.

How to Make Easy Pecan Pie Bread Pudding With Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Bread Cubes

Start by cutting your day-old bread into half to three-quarter inch cubes and place them in a large bowl. Let the cubes sit out for about an hour, allowing them to dry out a bit. Why? The drier your bread, the better it will soak up the custard flavors, giving your bread pudding that perfect custardy consistency without sogginess.

Step 2: Get Your Oven Ready

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9 x 13 inch baking dish by lightly spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures nothing sticks, making cleanup a breeze and preserving the beautiful crust that will form on your bread pudding.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Custard

In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and well combined. Then, slowly incorporate the 2% milk and heavy whipping cream. This custard mixture is the heart of your bread pudding, providing flavor and that delightfully soft, creamy texture you will love.

Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard

Pour the custard over your dried bread cubes. Gently fold and mix so every cube begins absorbing those luscious flavors. Let this mixture rest for 15 minutes, occasionally mixing to ensure even absorption. This step is key to getting that moist and tender bite throughout.

Step 5: Prepare the Pecan Topping Mixture

In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt butter and mix in brown sugar until it dissolves completely. Stir in a quarter cup of heavy cream, then fold in the pecan halves. This rich, buttery, nutty mixture will add delightful pockets of flavor and clumps throughout your pudding.

Step 6: Fold Pecan Mixture into Bread Custard

Pour the pecan topping mixture over the soaked bread cubes and gently fold. You want to fold just enough so the pecan mixture forms chunky clusters rather than mixing it in evenly. These clumps will bake into crunchy, caramelized bites that make every forkful exciting.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your bread pudding mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes until the top turns a lovely golden brown and crisp, while the center remains slightly jiggly. Remember, it will continue to set as it cools, locking in that creamy texture you crave.

Step 8: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

While the pudding is baking or cooling, whip up the homemade salted caramel sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and corn syrup. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 more minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a delicate sprinkle of salt flakes. This sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and salty that will melt beautifully over your warm pudding.

How to Serve Easy Pecan Pie Bread Pudding With Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe

A white square plate holds a piece of dessert with three visible layers: a crumbly top layer of golden brown streusel with small chunks, a middle layer of lighter beige soft cake, and a bottom layer that looks moist and nutty with dark brown bits. The dessert is covered in glossy light brown caramel sauce that drips slightly down the sides. Next to the dessert is a scoop of creamy off-white ice cream also drizzled with caramel. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and a red and white checkered cloth along with fall leaves and flowers in orange and purple colors are in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

You can elevate this dessert by garnishing with lightly toasted pecan halves to enhance the nutty crunch. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the caramel sauce adds a sophisticated touch that intensifies all the sweet flavors. For a final flourish, a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes every serving feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This bread pudding can stand alone as an indulgent dessert or pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like ripe berries or a citrus compote to cut through the richness. For an adult twist, serving it alongside a small glass of bourbon or a cup of bold coffee creates a cozy, decadent experience.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests, consider individual ramekins for personalized portions that look as good as they taste. Alternatively, layer the bread pudding with caramel sauce in clear glass dishes for a pretty presentation showcasing all the delicious textures. Drizzle extra caramel directly at the table for a wow factor that gets everyone excited.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, cover your leftover bread pudding tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days — perfect for enjoying a second helping or sipping coffee the next day with minimal fuss.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap the entire baked bread pudding or individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place them in freezer-safe containers. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat your bread pudding in a preheated 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. For individual servings, microwave on medium power for 1 to 2 minutes. Always serve warm with a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce to recapture that fresh-from-the-oven magic.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Yes! While day-old artisan French bread or Chateau bread dumplings are recommended for their texture, you can also use brioche or challah for a richer taste. Just make sure the bread is slightly stale to absorb the custard effectively.

Is it possible to make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The salted caramel sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply warm it gently before serving to restore its pourable consistency.

Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?

Definitely. Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives if you prefer a different crunch or flavor. Toasting the nuts beforehand will enhance their nuttiness even further.

What if I don’t have corn syrup for the caramel sauce?

If you don’t have corn syrup on hand, you can substitute it with light maple syrup or honey. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be wonderfully rich and sweet.

How do I know when the bread pudding is fully cooked?

Look for a golden-brown, slightly crisp top with a custard center that’s still just a bit jiggly in the middle. It will firm up as it cools, so avoid overbaking to keep it moist and tender.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pecan Pie Bread Pudding With Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe is one of those treasured dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re treating family, impressing guests, or simply indulging yourself, its comforting blend of sweet, nutty, and buttery goodness is sure to become a beloved favorite. Now is the perfect time to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive in — trust me, every bite is worth it!