Maple Pecan Bread Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. With its rich, custardy texture and warm, nutty flavors, this dish transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.
The base of this pudding is cubed day-old bread, which soaks up all the rich custard flavors. Pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty depth. The custard itself is a mix of whole milk and heavy cream, lending a creamy texture. Maple syrup is the star sweetener, providing a distinct flavor profile. Eggs help bind everything together, while granulated sugar balances the sweetness. Vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg bring warmth and spice, perfectly complementing the richness. Lastly, a touch of salt heightens all these flavors.
Serve this bread pudding warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a bit of extra decadence, consider a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. It also pairs beautifully with a hot cup of spiced chai or a glass of cold milk.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9x13 inch baking dish and generously grease it with unsalted butter. This will help prevent sticking and add a bit of extra flavor.
In a large mixing bowl, crack in your eggs. Whisk them until they're nice and frothy, then pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, and pure maple syrup. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Give everything a good whisk until it's well combined and smooth.
Next, add your cubed bread and chopped pecans into the bowl. Gently fold them into the liquid mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let this sit for about 10 minutes; this soaking time is essential for the bread to absorb all the flavors.
Once the bread has soaked, pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out evenly to ensure even baking. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps the pudding firm up and makes it easier to slice.