Imagine a dessert that captures the essence of fall in every single bite - creamy, rich, and bursting with warm spices that dance on your palate. This Crockpot Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding is not just a recipe; it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary comfort food that will make your kitchen smell like heaven and your taste buds sing with delight. Whether you're hosting a cozy family dinner or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this foolproof dessert is about to become your new seasonal obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup praline sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the bread by cutting it into 1-inch cubes and allowing them to sit out for 30 minutes to slightly dry out, which helps absorb the custard mixture better.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined.
- Grease the interior of the crockpot with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer half of the bread cubes into the bottom of the crockpot, ensuring an even distribution.
- Pour half of the pumpkin custard mixture over the bread cubes, gently pressing down to help the bread absorb the liquid.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped pecans over the first layer.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining bread cubes, custard mixture, and pecans.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for
- 5 to 4 hours, until the pudding is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once cooked, drizzle the praline sauce over the top of the bread pudding.
- Let the pudding rest for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with additional praline sauce or whipped cream.
Tips
- Choose the right bread: Day-old or slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard more effectively without becoming mushy.
- Let bread cubes dry out: Allowing bread cubes to sit out for 30 minutes helps them maintain structure while soaking up the delicious pumpkin custard.
- Grease your crockpot thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Layer ingredients carefully to distribute flavors evenly throughout the pudding.
- Don't rush the cooking process - slow and low is the key to a perfectly set bread pudding.
- Use fresh spices for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Let the pudding rest after cooking to allow it to set and develop deeper flavors.
- For extra indulgence, serve with additional praline sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
