Maple Bacon Bread Pudding

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 50 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Maple Bacon Bread Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert that brings together the sweetness of maple, the smoky richness of bacon, and the custardy goodness of brioche. Perfect for a cozy brunch or a special holiday treat, this dish will become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Maple Bacon Bread Pudding

Brioche bread is soft and slightly sweet, which makes it absorb the custard beautifully, resulting in a rich texture. Bacon adds a smoky, savory element that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet components. Eggs are essential for creating that creamy, custardy base that holds everything together. Whole milk and heavy cream add a luxurious richness to the pudding. Maple syrup is the star sweetener, offering a deep, complex sweetness. Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses flavor. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor with its warm aroma. A touch of cinnamon provides a subtle spice, while salt balances the sweetness. Unsalted butter ensures a golden, rich top. Lastly, pecans add a wonderful crunch that complements the soft pudding.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use stale brioche for better absorption and texture.
  • Cook bacon until crispy to prevent sogginess.
  • Ensure the bread is fully submerged in the custard for even cooking.
  • Let it rest for a few minutes post-baking to allow flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this bread pudding with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add a creamy contrast. A sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance. Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced brunch spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I use another type of bread?
Yes, challah or a soft white bread can be good alternatives.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or additional whole milk, though it may be slightly less rich.

Maple Bacon Bread Pudding Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want to grease a 9x9 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Next, take your brioche bread and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Spread these evenly in the prepared dish; this ensures that every bite has a perfect mix of custard and bread.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. This is your custard base. Pour it over the bread cubes, pressing down gently with a spatula or the back of a spoon to make sure every piece is soaked through.

Now for the toppings—sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped pecans evenly over the top. Drizzle the melted butter all over to add richness and help the top brown beautifully. Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the custard is set and the top is a lovely golden brown. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before indulging in its warm, gooey goodness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
  • Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
  • Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

Ingredients

6 slices of brioche bread
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup chopped pecans

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
2. Cut the brioche bread into 1-inch cubes and spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped pecans evenly over the top.
6. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the mixture.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving warm.

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