When the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a home-cooked dessert to bring comfort and joy. That’s where my Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding comes into play—a delightful fusion of gooey sweetness and aromatic spices. Picture this: soft, tender pears nestled in a creamy custard, all encased in custardy layers of crispy-baked French bread. To elevate this experience, I drizzle on a velvety orange cardamom caramel sauce that dances on your taste buds with each blissful bite.
This recipe is the epitome of indulgence, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or a simple family dinner. As the comforting aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll find it hard to resist stealing just one more piece before serving! Join me as I take you through each step of crafting this heartwarming dessert that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding irresistible?
Warmth and Comfort: This dessert delivers the cozy vibes you crave on cold nights, wrapping you in its sweet embrace.
Aromatic Infusion: The fragrant cardamom elevates every bite, perfectly complementing the juicy pears.
Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can create this luxurious treat without any fuss.
Gourmet Twist: The addition of orange caramel sauce adds a delightful citrus zing, making it unforgettable.
Crowd-pleasing Delight: Ideal for gatherings, this pudding always has friends and family coming back for more! Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate experience.
Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding
- French Bread – Provides structure and absorbs the luscious custard; use thick-cut slices for best results.
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor; it’s essential for sautéing the pears to perfection.
- Pears – Offers sweetness and moisture; use Bartlett pears for their excellent flavor, or substitute with your favorite variety.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances the sweetness and adds caramel notes to the pudding mixture.
- Brandy – Optional for added depth; feel free to omit if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Ground Cardamom – The star spice that infuses warmth into the pudding and sauce; freshly ground is best for potency.
- Eggs – These act as the binding agent, creating a creamy, custard-like texture that’s vital for the dish.
- Milk – Adds creaminess to the custard; you can substitute almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Provides a luscious richness to both the pudding and caramel sauce.
- Sugar – Standard granulated sugar sweetens the custard beautifully.
- Kosher Salt – A pinch enhances the overall flavor of the pudding.
- Raw Turbinado Sugar – An optional topping that adds a pleasant crunch and lovely caramelized finish.
For the Caramel Sauce
- Heavy Whipping Cream – The silken base of your luscious sauce; use the same as above.
- Cardamom Pods – Adds a fresh spice note; you can substitute with ground cardamom if preferred.
- Sugar (for sauce) – Primarily sweetens the caramel, ensuring it hits the perfect balance.
- Water – Helps to dissolve the sugar, creating a smooth caramel base.
- Orange Juice and Zest – Their bright acidity balances the caramel’s sweetness, adding a delightful citrus twist.
Feel the allure of Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding unfold as you gather these ingredients for a blissful winter treat! 🎉
How to Make Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
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Prepare Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes and bake for 5-10 minutes until they are dried, but don’t let them turn brown. This helps create the perfect pudding texture.
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Sauté Pears: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced pears and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in brown sugar, brandy, and ground cardamom; cook until the pears are tender, then reserve the delicious syrup.
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Mix Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, ground cardamom, and a pinch of salt with the reserved syrup until everything is well combined and smooth.
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Layer and Bake: Grease a baking dish and start layering half the bread cubes and half the sautéed pears. Repeat the layers again! Next, pour the custard over the layers, making sure all the bread cubes get coated. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then sprinkle a bit of turbinado sugar on top. Bake for 40-45 minutes until it’s set and just golden on top.
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Prepare Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat the cream with crushed cardamom pods until it’s simmering. Let it steep for a few minutes and then strain it. In a separate saucepan, mix sugar and water and heat until caramelized to a dark amber color. Gently swirl it! Add butter, then pour in the cream mixture and stir in orange juice, zest, and a sprinkle of salt.
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Serve: Cut the warm pudding into generous portions. Drizzle with your luscious orange cardamom caramel sauce, and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
- Choose the Right Bread: Use thick-cut French bread for optimal absorbency. Avoid soft sandwich bread, as it won’t hold its shape.
- Sauté Time: Take care not to overcook the pears while sautéing. They should be tender yet firm to retain some bite in the pudding.
- Thorough Soaking: Allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 5 minutes before baking. This ensures a creamy, custard-like texture.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the pudding as it bakes. Over-baking can lead to a dry dessert; it should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Caramel Consistency: If the caramel sauce crystallizes, gently reheat it with a splash of water to return it to a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to mix in different fruits or nuts to customize your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding recipe and enhance its seasonal appeal.
What to Serve with Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
When it comes to creating a delightful meal experience, pairing your warm bread pudding with complementary dishes can elevate the entire feast.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic accompaniment, the creamy scoop melts into the warm pudding, adding a rich, velvety texture with each bite.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the pudding’s warmth without overpowering its delicate flavors.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The warmth of cardamom in the chai mirrors the pudding, creating a comforting drink that wraps you in spice-filled nostalgia.
- Roasted Nuts: Serve a small bowl of lightly salted roasted almonds or pecans for a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the pudding.
- Citrus Salad: A fresh citrus salad with oranges and grapefruits provides a zesty balance to the sweetness, cleansing the palate beautifully.
- Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a cozy cup of rich hot chocolate, which pairs wonderfully with the spices and sweetness of the bread pudding.
Make Ahead Options
These Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding bites are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the bread pudding mixture, complete with sautéed pears, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply layer the bread cubes and pears in the baking dish, then pour the custard over the top, cover, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through. Additionally, your homemade orange cardamom caramel sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving for a warm, delightful drizzle. Enjoy the convenience of this make-ahead dessert without sacrificing flavor!
Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to bring your own flair to this recipe with these scrumptious variations!
- Fruit Swap: Replace pears with apples or peaches for a seasonal twist; each fruit offers a unique flavor profile.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch; they add texture and a nutty depth to your pudding.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk; this keeps the dessert creamy while catering to dairy-free diets.
- Caramel Twist: Instead of orange juice in the sauce, experiment with a splash of bourbon for a deep, rich flavor.
- Sweet Spice: Boost the spice level by adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the custard; these flavors complement cardamom beautifully.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For chocoholics, indulge by drizzling melted chocolate over the pudding just before serving; it adds a decadent touch.
- Creamy Enhancement: Fold in a dollop of cream cheese to the custard mixture for an extra layer of creaminess and tang.
- Heat Factor: If you enjoy a kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or use spiced rum in place of brandy for added warmth.
Let your imagination run wild as you create a customized Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding that reflects your personal taste!
How to Store and Freeze Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
Room Temperature: Enjoy the pudding fresh for up to 2 hours after baking; it’s best served warm.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pudding before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it’ll last up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the baking.
Reheating: If refrigerated or frozen, reheat portions in the microwave or oven. Expect a delightful texture while savoring the flavors of this Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding!
Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of bread should I use for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! A thick-cut French bread is ideal because it provides the necessary structure and absorbency for the custard. Avoid using soft sandwich bread, as it tends to get mushy and won’t hold that delightful pudding texture.
How should I store leftovers of this bread pudding?
Once it’s cooled down, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, simply reheat the portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through—you’ll love how it still tastes just as good!
Can I freeze Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
Very! For freezing, wrap the cooled pudding tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect it from freezer burn. It’s perfect for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, bake it directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time before serving.
What if my bread pudding comes out too dry?
No worries! If you find your pudding is dry, it could be due to over-baking. Next time, keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking. If you find yourself in this situation, you can drizzle some milk or cream over the dry areas before serving to add some moisture back in—it can work wonders!
Can I make any substitutions for dietary restrictions with this recipe?
Yes! This recipe can easily be adjusted for dietary preferences. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and cream with almond or oat milk. You can also omit the brandy if you prefer an alcohol-free dessert. Just remember to double-check any allergens in your ingredients to ensure everyone can enjoy this comforting treat!
Is it safe for pets to consume any of the ingredients?
While the ingredients in Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding are delicious for humans, some, like brown sugar and brandy, are not suitable for pets. It’s best to keep this indulgent dessert away from cats and dogs, as they shouldn’t have sugary or rich foods. Always keep those furry friends and their health in mind!
Warm Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding to Delight Your Winter Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes and bake for 5-10 minutes until they are dried, but don't let them turn brown.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced pears and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in brown sugar, brandy, and ground cardamom; cook until the pears are tender, then reserve the delicious syrup.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, ground cardamom, and a pinch of salt with the reserved syrup until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Grease a baking dish and start layering half the bread cubes and half the sautéed pears. Repeat the layers again! Next, pour the custard over the layers, making sure all the bread cubes get coated. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then sprinkle a bit of turbinado sugar on top. Bake for 40-45 minutes until it's set and just golden on top.
- In a small saucepan, heat the cream with crushed cardamom pods until it’s simmering. Let it steep for a few minutes and then strain it. In a separate saucepan, mix sugar and water and heat until caramelized to a dark amber color. Gently swirl it! Add butter, then pour in the cream mixture and stir in orange juice, zest, and a sprinkle of salt.
- Cut the warm pudding into generous portions. Drizzle with your luscious orange cardamom caramel sauce, and enjoy the comforting flavors.