Name: Delicious Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 8 cups cubed French bread (thick, crusty bread for best results); 2 tablespoons butter (for sautéing pears); 4 cups pears (Bartlett or similar) (diced); 1/4 cup brown sugar (for sautéing pears); 2 tablespoons brandy (optional); 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 4 eggs; 2 cups milk (whole or 2% milk works perfectly); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon kosher salt (pinch); 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar (optional); 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for caramel sauce); 4 pods cardamom (or use ground cardamom); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup water; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest

The inviting scent of cardamom wafts through my kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace reminiscent of cherished winter evenings. As the days grow shorter and the nights colder, a bowl of Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding with Orange Caramel Sauce beckons like an old friend. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a cozy gathering of spiced pears and sumptuous custard, perfect for uplifting spirits during chilly celebrations. This delightful baking venture not only dazzles the taste buds, but it’s also an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that will leave your loved ones craving seconds. Can you imagine the joy of serving this sumptuous winter treat at your next get-together? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Special?

Comforting Warmth: This recipe captures the essence of cozy winter nights, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings.

Rich, Complex Flavors: The combination of cardamom and spiced pears creates a unique flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this pudding is a breeze to whip up, even for novice bakers.

Perfectly Indulgent: The warm orange caramel sauce drizzled on top adds a luxurious touch, ensuring this dessert feels special.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream, and watch it disappear in no time! If you’re looking for more amazing breads to complement your meals, check out my Fashioned Banana Bread or try something savory like the Seafood Bread Bowl.

Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Ingredients

• Discover the key components to create this delightful winter dessert.

For the Pudding

Cubed French Bread – Provides structure and absorbs the egg custard; use thick, crusty bread for best results.
Butter – Adds rich flavor to the sautéed pears.
Pears (Bartlett or similar) – Infuse sweetness and moisture; choose any variety depending on your preference.
Brown Sugar – Enhances the depth and sweetness of the pears.
Brandy (optional) – Offers a deeper flavor when sautéing pears; can be omitted for non-alcoholic versions.
Ground Cardamom – The primary spice flavoring for both pudding and sauce; can substitute cinnamon if desired.
Eggs – Bind the mixture and create a rich custard.
Milk – Adds creaminess to the custard; whole or 2% milk works perfectly.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Contributes a luxurious texture to the pudding.
Sugar – Sweetens the custard base.
Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Turbinado Sugar (optional) – Provides a delightful crunch when baked on top.

For the Caramel Sauce

Heavy Whipping Cream – Forms the base for a rich caramel sauce.
Cardamom Pods – Infuse flavor in the caramel sauce; ground cardamom can be used as an alternative.
Granulated Sugar – The key ingredient for creating the caramel sauce.
Water – Helps dissolve the sugar before boiling.
Butter – Enriches and thickens the caramel sauce.
Orange Juice and Zest – Adds bright citrus notes to balance the richness of the pudding and caramel.

Now that you have these Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation for an irresistibly cozy dessert!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take your cubed French bread and spread it on a baking sheet. Dry out the bread in the oven for 5-10 minutes; you’re aiming for it to become slightly crispy, but avoid any browning. This will help the bread absorb the egg custard perfectly without turning soggy.

Step 2: Sauté the Pears
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced pears along with 1/4 cup brown sugar, optionally splash in 2 tablespoons of brandy, and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the pears are tender and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Reserve any syrup released from the pears before transferring them to a bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 1/2 cup of sugar, and a pinch of kosher salt. Add the reserved syrup from the sautéed pears into the custard mixture and gently blend until well combined. This rich custard will infuse the Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding with a wonderful creaminess.

Step 4: Layer the Pudding
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter to ensure easy serving later on. Begin layering half of the dried bread cubes in the dish. Follow this by adding half of the sautéed pears, spreading them evenly to ensure each bite is filled with flavor. Repeat this layering process with the remaining bread and pears, creating a delightful contrast of textures.

Step 5: Combine Custard and Bread
Pour the prepared egg custard mixture over the layered bread and pears. With gentle hands, toss the mixture lightly to ensure every piece of bread is soaked in the custard. Allow the pudding to sit for about 5 minutes, which gives the bread time to absorb all those delicious flavors. For an added crunch, sprinkle turbinado sugar over the top before baking.

Step 6: Bake the Bread Pudding
Place the assembled Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the pudding is set, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly crisp. Allow it to cool slightly before serving; this will enhance the flavors even more.

Step 7: Make the Caramel Sauce
For the decadent orange caramel sauce, start by heating 1 cup of heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan until it simmers. Add a few crushed cardamom pods to steep for about 10 minutes, letting the fragrant flavors meld. In a separate medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 8: Create the Caramel
Continue boiling the sugar mixture without stirring until it turns a beautiful amber color, about 5-7 minutes. Once you reach this stage, carefully stir in the infused cream mixture along with 2 tablespoons of butter and a pinch of salt. Finish by adding orange zest and juice to brighten the flavor, whisking until smooth.

Step 9: Serve the Pudding
Allow the caramel sauce to cool for a few minutes, but serve it warm over generously portions of the Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding. Every slice will glisten under the luscious sauce, inviting your family and friends to savor a comforting dessert that’s perfect for winter warmth.

How to Store and Freeze Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

Fridge: Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven for a few minutes until warm.

Freezer: Freeze slices wrapped well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Ideally, reheat in the oven to restore the texture—add a splash of milk if it seems dry and heat at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

Make-Ahead: This Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding can be assembled a day ahead. Cover tightly and refrigerate; just bake it before serving on the special occasion.

What to Serve with Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?

Creating a delightful meal is all about the perfect pairings that enhance each dish’s flavors and textures.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness melts beautifully into the warm pudding, balancing the spices with a classic touch.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it provides a fluffy contrast to the dense, gooey bread pudding, making every bite feel indulgent.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: Warm and soothing, this drink adds a comforting element, perfect for chilly winter evenings.
Candied Pecans: The crunchiness and sweetness offer a delightful texture contrast, while the nuts harmonize with the flavors of cardamom and pear.
Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Their crispy sweetness complements the pudding’s warmth, adding a delightful crunch with every bite.
Chai Tea: This spiced tea brings warmth and enhances the cardamom flavors, creating an inviting pairing for an after-dinner treat.
Orange Slices: Fresh and zesty, they cut through the richness, brightening the palate and emphasizing the citrus notes of the caramel.
Fresh Berries: Their freshness adds a burst of flavor, while the tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweet pudding and sauce.
Caramel Drizzle: A simple drizzle of extra caramel sauce serves as an indulgent finishing touch, enhancing the flavors even more.
Almond Milk Latte: This warm, nutty drink rounds out the meal perfectly, bringing warmth and a subtle nuttiness that complements the dish’s spices.

Make Ahead Options

These Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the pudding up to 24 hours in advance by assembling it in the baking dish, covering it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerating. The egg custard will soak into the bread, intensifying the flavors while maintaining its delightful texture. If you want to make the caramel sauce ahead, cook it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just rewarm it gently before serving, drizzling it over the pudding for that decadent touch. These simple make-ahead options will ensure you enjoy this cozy winter treat with minimal effort on the day of serving!

Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists to make the recipe your own and add your personal touch.

Fruit Swap: Substitute pears with apples, berries, or even sliced bananas to create a different fruit medley.
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut cream instead of regular milk and heavy cream for a dairy-free dessert option. You’ll still achieve that rich creaminess!
Nutty Flavor: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the pudding for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture and warm flavors. They lend a wonderful contrast in each bite.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to change the flavor profile; even a pinch of ginger can add an intriguing twist!
Increase Zestiness: For an extra burst of flavor, add more orange zest or even a splash of orange liqueur to the custard mixture.
Chocoholic Delight: Stir in chocolate chips or chunks before layering for a sweet chocolate surprise intermingled with the spiced flavors of the pudding.
Caramel Variations: Try using maple syrup or honey in place of brown sugar in the caramel sauce for a different sweetness and depth of flavor.
Top It Off: Serve each slice topped with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside your delicious bread pudding, making the indulgence even more special!

This Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is a treat that can adapt to your preferences, just like I love serving it warm with a dollop of cream alongside my Southern Style Honey cornbread for added warmth and richness. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Expert Tips for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

Bread Choice: Use thick, crusty French bread to ensure it holds its shape and absorbs the custard well without becoming mushy.
Sauté Pears Right: Cook pears just until tender; avoid overcooking them to keep some of their texture and bright flavor for the pudding.
Mix Custard Gently: When adding the custard to the layered bread, toss it gently to avoid breaking the bread cubes; this helps soak all pieces evenly with flavor.
Check for Doneness: Use a knife to test the center; it should come out clean for perfect Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding, which ensures it’s fully set and safe to serve.
Avoid Sugar Crystallization: When making the caramel, refrain from stirring once it begins to boil. This prevents unwanted crystal formation in your luscious sauce.

Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
Using thick, crusty French bread is ideal for this recipe. It absorbs the egg custard beautifully without becoming soggy, ensuring a delightful texture. I often opt for day-old bread, as it dries out naturally and holds up well during baking.

How do I store leftover Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop them back in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through. This ensures you can enjoy the delicious flavors for days!

Can I freeze Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored like this for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, adding a splash of milk if it appears dry.

What should I do if my bread pudding is soggy?
If your bread pudding turns out soggy, it may be due to using bread that wasn’t dried out enough, or it could have absorbed too much custard. To prevent this in the future, ensure your bread cubes are adequately dried in the oven and consider reducing the liquid slightly in the custard mixture.

What if I have a nut allergy—can I substitute any ingredients?
If you’re concerned about allergens, I recommend using almond milk substitutes or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. You can also substitute ground cardamom with cinnamon if you prefer a different spice flavor. It’s great to swap ingredients while keeping the essence of the dessert!

Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! This bread pudding is kid-friendly and makes a wonderful treat. However, if you’re serving younger children, you may want to skip the brandy or reduce the amount, as it’s used primarily to enhance flavor. You could also let them help out in the kitchen for some fun family bonding time!