Craving a warm and sweet treat this fall? You’re in for a tasty surprise! My Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding Delight blends rich pumpkin puree and melted chocolate chips into a comforting dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy the season’s flavors. Let’s dive into the delicious details and create something special together!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding
To make this delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding, you need the following key ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cubed (French or challah works well)
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 cups whole milk
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing)
These ingredients create a rich and creamy base. The stale bread soaks up the custard. The pumpkin gives it a warm, seasonal flavor. The chocolate chips add a sweet touch.
Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor
You can add extra ingredients for more depth in taste. Here are some options:
– ¼ cup chopped pecans
– A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicy kick
Pecans add a nice crunch. Spices enhance the pumpkin flavor. Feel free to mix and match according to your taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to swap ingredients, here are some ideas:
– Use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk.
– Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
– You can use bread crumbs if you don’t have stale bread.
These substitutions still keep the essence of the dish. They help tailor it to your dietary needs or preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish
First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven so your bread pudding bakes evenly. While the oven heats, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. This helps the pudding not stick when it’s done. Make sure to cover the bottom and sides well.
Creating the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 2 cups of whole milk, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Crack in 3 large eggs. Add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk all these ingredients together until they are smooth. This mixture is your custard, which gives the pudding its rich flavor and texture.
Soaking and Incorporating the Bread
Now, take 4 cups of stale bread, cubed, and add it to the custard mixture. Gently fold the bread into the mix. Make sure every piece gets soaked with the custard. Let this mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes. This soaking time is key. It allows the bread to absorb all the yummy flavors.
Baking the Bread Pudding
After the bread has soaked, fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and, if you like, ¼ cup of chopped pecans. Spread the mixture evenly in your greased baking dish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. Once baked, take it out and let it cool for a bit. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin chocolate chip bread pudding!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Bread Pudding Texture
To get the best texture, use stale bread. Stale bread holds liquid well. I like using French or challah bread. Cut your bread into cubes. Aim for 1-inch pieces. This size helps it soak up the custard. Let the bread sit in the mixture for 15-20 minutes. This waiting time helps create a soft and creamy pudding.
Maintaining Moisture in the Pudding
Moisture is key to a great bread pudding. Use whole milk for a rich flavor. The eggs in the recipe also help bind the pudding. If you want extra moisture, add a bit more pumpkin puree. Make sure each bread piece is well-coated. This ensures each bite is soft and delicious.
Serving Suggestions for Ultimate Enjoyment
Serve your pumpkin chocolate chip bread pudding warm. A light dusting of powdered sugar makes it look fancy. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds sweetness. For a creamy touch, add a dollop of whipped cream on the side. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This adds a nice contrast to the warm pudding. Enjoy your tasty dessert!

Variations
Adding Different Chips or Nuts
You can switch up the chocolate chips in this bread pudding. Try using white chocolate, butterscotch, or even peanut butter chips. Each chip gives a new taste. If you like nuts, add walnuts or almonds. These add a nice crunch. Make sure to keep the amount similar to the recipe, so the balance stays right.
Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Different Spices
While pumpkin pie spice is great, you can explore other spices. Consider adding cinnamon for more warmth. Nutmeg can give a nice kick, too. If you like a hint of heat, try some ginger. Each spice changes the flavor and makes it unique. Just be careful with stronger spices; a little goes a long way.
Alternative Milk Options
If you want a different milk, go for almond, coconut, or oat milk. Each brings its own flavor. Almond milk adds a nutty taste, while coconut milk gives a tropical twist. Oat milk is creamy and works well too. Make sure to choose unsweetened options to keep the sugar balanced. This way, you can enjoy a tasty treat that fits your diet!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
Store leftover pumpkin chocolate chip bread pudding in an airtight container. Make sure it cools to room temperature first. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the flavor fresh and the texture nice.
Reheating Tips for Freshness
To reheat, place a portion in the microwave. Heat it for 30 seconds at a time until warm. You can also use the oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. Adding a splash of milk helps keep it moist as you heat.
Freezing Options for Long-Term Storage
You can freeze bread pudding for up to three months. Cut it into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Roast your pumpkin until soft. Then, scoop out the flesh and mash it. Make sure to strain it to remove excess water. This will help keep your bread pudding from becoming too wet.
How long can pumpkin chocolate chip bread pudding sit out?
Pumpkin chocolate chip bread pudding should not sit out for more than two hours. After that, bacteria can grow. If you have leftovers, cover them and refrigerate.
What to serve with pumpkin chocolate chip bread pudding?
You can serve this dish warm with whipped cream or ice cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness. For a nutty twist, sprinkle some chopped pecans on top.
Is it possible to make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day before. Assemble the bread pudding without baking it. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you are ready, bake it straight from the fridge. This makes it easy for entertaining!
We covered essential ingredients for pumpkin chocolate chip bread pudding and tips for success. You learned how to prep, bake, and store this sweet dish. Variations can add fun to your recipe, using different chips or spices. Remember, your creativity can shine here. Enjoy serving this treat to friends and family. With easy steps and tasty options, you can make a perfect dessert any time. Embrace your baking skills and delight in every bite!



