Maple Pecan Bread Pudding with Bourbon Caramel Sauce

Serves: 6 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional) | Bake Time: 45–50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

• 6 cups (300 g) brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

• 3 large eggs

• 2 egg yolks

• ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar

• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

• ¼ tsp fine sea salt

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Maple Bourbon Caramel Sauce

• ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar

• ¼ cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup

• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp bourbon (optional)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

For the Candied Pecan Topping

• 1 cup pecan halves

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp butter

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

For Garnish

• Fresh mint leaves

• Extra toasted pecans

• Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Lightly grease six ramekins or one 8-inch (20 cm) baking dish with butter.

3. If the bread is fresh, spread the cubes on a baking tray and bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly dry.

Step 2 – Make the Custard

1. In a large bowl, whisk together:

   • Whole milk

   • Heavy cream

   • Eggs

   • Egg yolks

   • Brown sugar

   • Granulated sugar

   • Vanilla extract

   • Cinnamon

   • Nutmeg

   • Salt

2. Whisk until the sugar has dissolved.

Step 3 – Assemble the Bread Pudding

1. Place the bread cubes into the prepared baking dish.

2. Pour the custard evenly over the bread.

3. Gently press the bread down so it absorbs the liquid.

4. Let stand for 20–30 minutes for the bread to fully soak.

5. Drizzle with the melted butter.

Step 4 – Bake

1. Place the baking dish in a larger roasting pan.

2. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish (water bath).

3. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.

4. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 5 – Make the Maple Bourbon Caramel Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, combine:

   • Brown sugar

   • Maple syrup

   • Heavy cream

   • Butter

2. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until smooth and glossy (about 5 minutes).

3. Remove from the heat.

4. Stir in the bourbon (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.

Step 6 – Prepare the Candied Pecans

1. Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.

3. Stir continuously for 3–4 minutes, until the pecans are evenly coated and lightly caramelized.

4. Transfer to parchment paper to cool.

Step 7 – Plate the Dessert

1. Carefully unmold the bread pudding onto a serving plate, or serve directly from the ramekin.

2. Spoon the warm maple bourbon caramel sauce generously over the top.

3. Scatter the candied pecans over the pudding.

4. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Chef's Tips

• Brioche or challah bread creates the richest, most custardy texture.

• Day-old bread absorbs the custard better than fresh bread.

• Baking in a water bath ensures a silky, creamy interior without curdling.

• Toast the pecans before candying them to deepen their nutty flavor.

• If serving for brunch, pair with fresh berries or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~560 kcal

• Protein: 10 g

• Fat: 30 g

• Carbohydrates: 66 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 40 g

• Sodium: 290 mg

Serving Suggestion

This Maple Pecan Bread Pudding with Bourbon Caramel Sauce is a warm, comforting dessert with a luxurious texture. Soft brioche soaked in a rich vanilla-spiced custard is baked until golden, then topped with buttery candied pecans and a silky maple caramel sauce with a hint of bourbon. Serve warm with freshly whipped cream, vanilla bean ice cream, or a hot cup of coffee or espresso for an indulgent restaurant-quality dessert that's perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or cozy evenings.