As I stood by the oven, the aroma of warm spices swirling around me, the chill of winter melted away with every sweet breath. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding, a cozy dessert that transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent winter treat. This soft and gooey delight features tender pears nestled in a softly spiced custard, all hugged by crusty French bread. Not only is it a glorious way to warm up your home, but it’s also an impressive crowd-pleaser that can be easily made gluten-free with a quick swap. The pièce de résistance? A luscious orange caramel sauce that takes this pudding to a whole new level of irresistible decadence. Ready to create a dish that will ignite the warmth of home in every bite? Let’s dive in! Why is Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding irresistible? Indulgent Flavor: The combination of sweet pears and aromatic cardamom creates a delightful taste that is both warm and comforting. Quick & Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for those who want to impress without the stress. Versatile Swap: Easily adapt with gluten-free bread for a delicious dessert that everyone can enjoy! Crowd-Pleasing: It’s the ultimate showstopper for gatherings or a cozy night in, guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds. Make-ahead Magic: Prepare the pudding in advance, letting you enjoy more time with your loved ones; perfect for busy winter nights! Feeling adventurous? If you’re looking for more tasty ideas, why not try making some Skinny Banana Bread or a delightful Bbq Chicken Flatbread? Both will bring comfort and flavor to your table! Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Ingredients • To create this cozy dish, let’s gather our ingredients! For the Bread Pudding French Bread – A sturdy base; using stale or toasted bread yields the best texture. Butter – Adds richness; swap for vegan butter if desired. Pears – Sweetness and moisture; Bartlett pears are ideal, but any variety will do! Brown Sugar – Enhances the caramel flavor; feel free to substitute with regular sugar. Brandy (Optional) – A splash deepens flavor; apple juice works as a non-alcoholic alternative. Ground Cardamom – Provides the signature spiced flavor; cinnamon or nutmeg are great substitutes. Eggs – Essential for structure; no substitutes for binding in this recipe. Milk – Creaminess factor; almond milk works well for a dairy-free option. Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds richness; replace with coconut cream if preferred. Sugar – Sweetens the pudding; can be reduced for a less sweet outcome. Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness; it’s best to avoid table salt. Raw Turbinado Sugar (Optional) – Creates a crunchy crust; omit if you can’t find it. For the Orange Caramel Sauce Heavy Whipping Cream – The base for a creamy sauce. Cardamom Pods – Infuse the cream for a deeper flavor; extra ground cardamom can substitute. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and caramelizes; no direct substitutes recommended for best results. Water – Helps dissolve the sugar; standard tap water is perfect. Butter – Adds smoothness to your sauce; vegan butter can also be used. Orange Juice – Brightens the flavor; lemon juice can be a substitute if necessary. Zest of Orange – Enhances aroma; you may use zest from other citrus fruits too. Gather these ingredients to embark on creating your delightful Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding, allowing it to set perfectly. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and prepare to create a delightful and cozy dessert that will warm your home. Step 2: Prepare the Bread Cut your French bread into 1-inch cubes, placing them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 7-10 minutes until they are slightly crispy but not browned. This drying process gives the bread the right texture to absorb the custard without becoming mushy, creating a delicious foundation for your pudding. Step 3: Sauté the Pears In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add diced pears and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until the pears are tender and caramelized. The sugar will create a syrup that enhances the sweetness of the fruit, adding a lovely flavor to your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding. Step 4: Whisk the Custard Mixture In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, ½ cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom, and a pinch of kosher salt. Incorporate the reserved pear syrup for extra flavor. Continue whisking until everything is well combined, ensuring a smooth custard mixture to soak into the bread. Step 5: Layer the Ingredients In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers with half of the toasted bread cubes and half of the sautéed pears. Repeat these layers with the remaining bread and pears, allowing the custard to fill any gaps. This layering technique ensures that each bite of the Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is packed with flavor and texture. Step 6: Pour the Custard Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and pears, gently pressing down with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are soaked. Allow the mixture to rest for about 10 minutes, letting the bread absorb the custard, which will contribute to a rich, gooey texture once baked. Step 7: Sprinkle for Crunch Before baking, sprinkle the top of the pudding with raw turbinado sugar, which will create a delightful crunchy crust during baking. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. The top should be golden brown and inviting. Step 8: Make the Caramel Sauce While the pudding bakes, prepare the orange caramel sauce. In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and add a few crushed cardamom pods, allowing them to steep over low heat for about 10 minutes. This will infuse the cream with a lovely cardamom flavor that complements your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding. Step 9: Cook the Sugar In a separate saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and ¼ cup of water over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves, then continue cooking until the mixture turns a light amber color, about 6-8 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn; this step will create a luscious base for your caramel sauce. Step 10: Combine and Finish the Sauce Once the sugar is golden, carefully add in the butter and steeped cream while stirring continuously. Finally, mix in the orange juice and zest for a bright, fresh flavor. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly, ready to be drizzled over your warm Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding for an indulgent finish. Step 11: Serve and Enjoy Remove the Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it warm, drizzling the luscious orange caramel sauce over each portion. This rich and comforting dessert is perfect for a cozy gathering or a special winter treat, ensuring every bite fills your home with warmth and joy. What to Serve with Indulgent Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding This delightful dessert transforms your winter evenings into cozy, comforting moments that beckon for companionship and warmth. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and smooth, this classic pairing elevates the spiced pudding with coolness, offering the perfect contrast with warmth. Spiced Chai Tea: The subtle spices in chai mirror the cardamom in the pudding, enhancing the cozy, comforting experience with each sip. Whipped Coconut Cream: A dairy-free alternative, the light fluffiness adds a deliciously sweet topping, complementing the warmth of the bread pudding wonderfully. Sugary Candied Pecans: Crunchy and nutty, these add a delightful texture contrast. They also introduce an aromatic element that pairs beautifully with spiced flavors. Red Wine: A light-bodied, fruity red wine can complement the sweetness of the pears while enhancing the overall indulgent experience of the dessert. Warm Mulled Cider: Infused with spices, this drink offers a festive flair, wrapping you in warmth and echoing the cozy vibes of your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding. Fresh Berries: Tart and vibrant, fresh berries brighten the dish visually and provide a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness, balancing flavors. Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Rich and slightly bitter, a drizzle of dark chocolate elegantly adds depth to the dessert, fulfilling any chocolate lover’s cravings. Homemade Orange Granita: A refreshing icy treat, the citrus flavor echoes the orange caramel sauce, making it a sophisticated way to cleanse the palate after each indulgent bite. Make Ahead Options Preparing your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding ahead of time is a fantastic way to save you precious moments on busy winter nights! You can assemble the entire bread pudding up to 24 hours in advance by layering the bread and sautéed pears in your baking dish, then pouring the custard mixture over the top. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delicious flavors, and your dessert will be just as indulgent as if it were freshly made! How to Store and Freeze Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Fridge: Store any leftover Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for your sweet cravings! Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled bread pudding tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months, perfect for future indulgence. Reheating: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick treat! Make-Ahead Tip: To save time, assemble the Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding without baking and refrigerate it overnight. Bake before serving for a fresh, cozy dessert. Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Variations Feel free to make this cozy dessert your own with these enticing options! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to ensure everyone can indulge in this treat without worry. Different Fruits: Swap out pears for apples or stone fruits like peaches for a delightful twist. Sweet Spice: Replace cardamom with cinnamon or nutmeg for a familiar, warm flavor that brings comfort. Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free delight. Extra Creamy: Add more heavy whipping cream or coconut cream for an ultra-decadent, rich custard. Ice Cream Pairing: Top each warm serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence. Zesty Kick: Throw in some lemon or lime zest to the custard for a refreshing citrus kick. Whether you choose to experiment a bit or keep it classic, your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding will surely be a hit! And if you’re searching for more inspiration, consider trying out my Skinny Banana Bread or a flavorful Bbq Chicken Flatbread for delightful meals ahead! Expert Tips for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Bread Dryness: Ensure your bread is adequately dried before adding the custard. Stale or toasted bread absorbs flavors better without becoming soggy. Custard Soaking: Allow the pudding to rest for about 10 minutes after pouring in the custard. This lets the bread cubes soak up the delicious flavors effectively. Caramel Attention: Watch the caramel closely; it can burn quickly once it starts to darken. Stir gently and avoid touching it too much while cooking. Layering Technique: Use a slotted spoon when layering the ingredients to prevent too much syrup from soaking the bread, keeping your pudding light and fluffy. Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Substitute pear varieties or spices to create a personalized version of this Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding. Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs What type of bread is best for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding? Absolutely! Stale or toasted French bread works best because it absorbs the custard without becoming soggy. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with gluten-free bread—just make sure it’s dried out similarly. How long can I store leftovers of Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring to keep it fresh and delicious for your next indulgent craving! Can I freeze Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding? Yes, the pleasure of this pudding doesn’t have to end! To freeze, wrap the cooled bread pudding tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. How do I prevent my pudding from becoming soggy? Great question! Ensure your French bread is adequately dried—either stale or toasted. Additionally, let your pudding rest for about 10 minutes after pouring the custard over it. This gives the bread enough time to absorb the flavors without becoming mushy. What if I have allergies to some of the ingredients? Very! You can easily make this indulgent dessert more accommodating. Substitute regular milk with almond milk for a dairy-free version and use vegan butter instead of regular butter. If you’re allergic to nuts, just stick to regular milk and butter and enjoy this cozy dish without the worry! Can I make this recipe a day ahead? Certainly! For a make-ahead option, you can assemble the Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake, and you’ll have a fresh, warm dessert in no time! Savor the Cozy Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Magic Delight in the warmth of Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding, a cozy dessert showcasing spiced pears in a creamy custard, perfect for winter indulgence. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 8 portionsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Bread Pudding8 cups French Bread, cubed Stale or toasted for best texture4 tablespoons Butter Vegan butter option available4 medium Pears, diced Bartlett preferred, others acceptable1 cup Brown Sugar Can substitute with regular sugar2 tablespoons Brandy (Optional) Use apple juice for non-alcoholic1 teaspoon Ground Cardamom Can substitute cinnamon or nutmeg4 large Eggs No substitutes for binding2 cups Milk Almond milk works well for dairy-free1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Coconut cream can replace½ cup Sugar Can be reduced for less sweetness½ teaspoon Kosher Salt Avoid table salt½ cup Raw Turbinado Sugar (Optional) Omit if not availableFor the Orange Caramel Sauce1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Base for the sauce4 whole Cardamom Pods Infuse cream for flavor1 cup Granulated Sugar No substitutes recommended¼ cup Water Standard tap water¼ cup Butter Vegan butter option available½ cup Orange Juice Lemon juice can substitute1 tablespoon Zest of Orange Zest from other citrus can be used Equipment OvenBaking DishskilletMixing bowlSaucepanWhiskSpatula Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes and toast for 7-10 minutes.Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet and sauté the pears with brown sugar for 5-7 minutes.In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, cardamom, and salt, adding the reserved pear syrup.Layer half of the toasted bread and sautéed pears in a greased baking dish, repeat with remaining ingredients.Pour the custard mixture over the layers and let rest for 10 minutes.Sprinkle raw turbinado sugar on top before baking for 40-45 minutes until set.Prepare the orange caramel sauce by heating cream with cardamom pods, then caramelizing the sugar with water.Combine caramel with butter, infused cream, orange juice, and zest.Serve warm pudding drizzled with caramel sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 5gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 4mg NotesFor best results, ensure bread is adequately dried and let pudding rest after adding custard. Experiment with flavors for a personalized version. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
