Ingredients

Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this heartwarming dessert. Each component plays a crucial role in building the flavors and textures that make this dish so special.

1 loaf of stale bread (preferably brioche or challah), cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup salted caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling

If you’re missing one of these spices, don’t fret! You can always adjust based on what you have. For instance, if you’re out of nutmeg, a bit of allspice can work as a substitute. The beauty of cooking is in its flexibility, something my family always taught me to embrace.

Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get to the fun part—making this scrumptious bread pudding!

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined.
Pour the pumpkin mixture over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
Drizzle 1/2 cup of salted caramel sauce over the top of the bread pudding.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Let cool slightly before serving. Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over each serving for an extra touch of decadence.

As I was growing up, I learned that patience is key when baking. Letting the flavors meld together makes all the difference, and it’s a lesson that’s served me well beyond the kitchen.

Author: Jenny
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: International