Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding – Best Fall Dessert (2025)

Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that combines the seasonal flavor of pumpkin with the richness of bread pudding. It’s an easy-to-make, indulgent treat that’s perfect for fall, especially for Thanksgiving. The creamy custard, combined with the crisp, sugary praline topping, creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures. If you’re looking to impress guests with something different than the traditional pumpkin pie, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Why Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding is a Must-Try Dessert

This Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding stands out because it offers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The bread absorbs the rich pumpkin custard, while the praline sauce adds a delicious crunch with every bite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—it can be made ahead of time, served either hot or cold, and is easy to customize to suit different tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this dessert guarantees to delight.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

• Day-Old Bread (French, Italian, or Challah): The torn bread soaks up the pumpkin custard, making it the base for this rich pudding.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the custard.
• Half and Half: This balances the heavy cream and adds a smooth texture to the pudding.

• Pumpkin Puree: The key ingredient that gives this bread pudding its pumpkin flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the custard mixture for a perfect balance of flavors.
• Melted Butter: Provides richness and enhances the texture of the bread pudding.

• Eggs: Bind all the ingredients together and create the custard texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and sweetness to the flavor profile.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Brings the warm spices associated with fall, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences, here are a few substitutions you can make:

• Bread: You can swap out the traditional challah or French bread for brioche or even croissants for a lighter, buttery version.
• Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
• Eggs: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute for a vegan version.
• Nuts: If you’re allergic to pecans, walnuts or almonds can make great alternatives for the praline sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Tear the bread into small pieces and place them in the dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, half and half, pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly over the torn bread pieces, making sure each piece is coated.
4. Let the bread soak for about 10-15 minutes, allowing it to absorb the custard.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
6. While the pudding bakes, make the praline sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the heavy cream and brown sugar, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
7. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the toasted pecans and pumpkin pie spice to the sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Once the bread pudding is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the praline sauce over the top before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Making the Best Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

• Avoid sogginess: Ensure the bread is a day old to help it absorb the custard without turning too soggy.
• Check for doneness: The bread pudding should be firm to the touch and golden brown on top. If it’s not fully set, continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes.
• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the bread pudding the day before and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it the next day and pour the praline sauce over it before serving for a stress-free dessert.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. If you want to add a festive touch, try serving it with a spiced chai or a hot cup of apple cider.
For a twist, consider making a spicy pumpkin praline bread pudding by adding a bit of cayenne pepper to the custard for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness. This dish can also be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Seasonal and Health Benefits of Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

Pumpkin is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. It’s rich in vitamin A, which supports eye health and boosts immunity. The warm spices in the pumpkin pie spice blend, like cinnamon and nutmeg, also offer anti-inflammatory properties, making this bread pudding both a comforting and nutritious treat for the fall season.

Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding is the perfect fall dessert that combines all the flavors of the season into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving or just enjoying a cozy evening at home, this dessert is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s become a family favorite!

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding is the perfect dessert to elevate your fall gatherings. The rich pumpkin custard, combined with the sweet and crunchy praline topping, creates a unique and unforgettable dessert that will impress guests and family alike. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, a holiday party, or simply enjoying the cozy autumn flavors, this recipe will surely become a staple. With easy-to-follow steps and a dish that can be made ahead of time, you’ll be able to focus on the moments that matter most. Try it today, and let it add a new twist to your dessert repertoire.

FAQs About Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding

More Relevant Recipes

• Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze: These soft, gooey cinnamon rolls are filled with a delightful raspberry swirl and topped with a tangy lemon glaze, making them the perfect dessert to pair with the rich flavors of Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding. Ideal for breakfast or a sweet treat to share at your next gathering.
• Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: A savory, comforting dish that offers rich creaminess and hearty beef to balance the sweetness of dessert. The creamy sauce and tender pasta offer a satisfying contrast to the indulgent sweetness of pumpkin-based treats like the Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding.
• Easy Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake: This baked dish is the perfect savory pairing for a sweet dessert like Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding. Layers of buttery croissants, ham, and cheese combine to make a warm, melty comfort food that works wonderfully for a brunch or holiday gathering.

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