As winter blankets the world in soft, chilly hues, I find myself drawn to the kitchen, where warm spices and comforting aromas fill the air. One delightful discovery is my Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding—a recipe that feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a frosty evening. The harmony of spicy cardamom and tender, juicy pears creates a dessert that’s not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it weaves memories of festive gatherings and moments spent with loved ones around the table.
Imagine the gooey texture of the pudding, perfectly complemented by a sweet citrusy orange caramel sauce that just begs to be drizzled on top. With the option to include a splash of brandy, this decadent creation invites warmth and indulgence, making it perfect for both special occasions and quiet nights at home. Join me on this culinary journey, and let’s make a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds—this Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is sure to become your go-to winter favorite!
Why is Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding irresistible?
Comforting and Cozy: This delightful dessert embodies the warmth of winter through its rich blend of spices and soft pears.
Decadent Flavor: The infusion of cardamom and a hint of brandy elevates the taste, ensuring each bite is an indulgent experience.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up without hassle, even on busy nights.
Perfect for Sharing: This bread pudding is a crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings and festive celebrations.
Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or dairy-free options, allowing you to tailor this dish to your tastes.
Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding
- French Bread – Preferably stale, as it absorbs custard better for a richer texture.
- Butter – Adds flavor and richness; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Pears – The hero of this dish, adding sweetness and moisture; Bartlett pears are ideal, but any variety works.
- Brown Sugar – Contributes a delightful caramel flavor and sweetness; coconut sugar can enhance depth.
- Brandy – Optional for an extra flavor boost; omit for a non-alcoholic dessert.
- Ground Cardamom – Infuses the pudding with warm spice; fresh pods can intensify the flavor.
- Eggs – Essential for structure and creaminess in the custard.
- Milk & Heavy Cream – Necessary for a lush custard; swap with almond milk and cashew cream for lighter versions.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the custard; consider maple syrup for a unique twist.
- Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness; no substitutes are needed.
- Raw Turbinado Sugar – Provides a crunchy topping; regular sugar can be used but will lack that texture.
For the Orange Caramel Sauce
- Orange Juice & Zest – Adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the sauce; freshly squeezed juice is best for peak freshness.
- Heavy Cream – Vital for a smooth, rich caramel; opt for coconut cream for dairy-free caramel.
- Granulated Sugar – Used to create the caramel; avoid stirring while cooking to prevent crystallization.
- Butter – Adds richness to the caramel sauce; can be omitted for a lighter version.
Indulge in this Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding and savor the warmth it brings to your winter evenings!
How to Make Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that your bread pudding bakes evenly, creating a perfect soft custard texture.
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Cube the French bread into bite-sized pieces. Spread them out on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 7-10 minutes, until they’re dried but not browned.
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Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pears, brown sugar, brandy, and ground cardamom. Sauté until the pears are tender and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Reserve the syrup for later.
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Whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cardamom, and salt in a large bowl. Pour in the reserved pear syrup and mix until combined.
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Layer half of the toasted bread cubes in a greased baking dish. Top with half of the sautéed pears, then repeat the layers. Gently pour the custard mixture over the top and toss to combine.
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Sprinkle raw turbinado sugar over the top of the pudding. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Prepare the caramel sauce by heating the heavy cream in a small saucepan. Crush the cardamom pods and steep them in the cream for a few minutes. In another pot, boil sugar and water until it turns dark amber, then carefully stir in the butter, cream, and orange juice.
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Serve the warm bread pudding drizzled with orange caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness. Enjoy each bite of this cozy dessert!
Optional: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Variations
Transform your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding into a custom creation that suits your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Fruit Swap: Exchange pears for apples or peaches for a seasonal twist. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor profile and texture!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil and use almond milk and cashew cream for a stunning dairy-free version. You’ll still enjoy that rich creaminess!
- Intensified Spice: Boost flavors by adding cinnamon or nutmeg in place of cardamom, if desired. This adds warmth that complements the fruits beautifully.
- Vegan Friendly: Use flax eggs or chia eggs as a substitute for regular eggs. Combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for this delicious swap!
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. This added texture can turn your pudding into an irresistible treat.
- Sweetener Variation: Swap granulated sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different type of sweetness that will deepen flavors. Just reduce the milk slightly!
- Heat It Up: If you like a kick, sprinkle in a dash of cayenne or add some chili powder to the caramel sauce. It creates an exciting flavor contrast.
- Chocolate Twist: Incorporate chocolate chips or a swirl of Nutella into the layers for a rich, decadent chocolatey twist that will delight all dessert lovers!
What to Serve with Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
Creating the perfect dessert experience means knowing how to enhance it with delightful accompaniments.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess pairs beautifully with the warm pudding, providing a delightful contrast in temperature and richness. A scoop melts slightly over the pudding, creating a divine harmony of flavors.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a touch of elegance that complements the spiced bread pudding’s flavors without overpowering them. A dollop allows the pudding’s rich notes to truly shine.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the cardamom’s earthy undertones, making it the ideal beverage to serve alongside this comforting dessert. Experiment with a hint of cinnamon for extra warmth.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Perfect for chilly evenings, spiced apple cider echoes the pudding’s cozy spices. Serve it warm, and your guests will feel like they’ve wrapped themselves in a soft winter blanket.
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Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Add a touch of decadence with a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top. Its richness beautifully offsets the fruity sweetness of the pears.
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Toasted Nuts: Consider sprinkling toasted pecans or walnuts over the bread pudding for a crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft custard and tender pears. These nuts add a nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience.
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Fresh Berries: Serve alongside a small bowl of mixed berries. Their tartness can cut through the sweetness of the pudding, adding a refreshing element that balances each bite beautifully.
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Mulled Wine: For a more festive pairing, a glass of mulled wine, studded with spices like cloves and star anise, echoes the warm spice notes of the bread pudding.
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Caramel Sauce: While it’s already included in the recipe, serving extra orange caramel sauce on the side allows guests to drizzle as much as they like, elevating each bite even further.
Indulge in this warm, cozy dessert with these delightful pairings for a truly satisfying experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the entire pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Simply assemble the layers of bread and sautéed pears, pour the custard mixture over the top, and refrigerate without baking. This allows the bread to absorb the custard while keeping it fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven—40-45 minutes later, you’ll enjoy a warm, gooey dessert that feels freshly made and is just as delicious. Remember, for the best quality, sprinkle the turbinado sugar on right before baking!
Storage Tips for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to restore its gooey texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: If reheating from the fridge, microwave in 30-second intervals or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Serve warm with a drizzle of orange caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.
Make-Ahead: The Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking for a convenient and delicious winter dessert.
Tips for the Best Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
• Stale Bread Essential: Use stale French bread for optimal custard absorption; fresh bread may result in a soggy texture.
• Controlled Caramelization: Swirl the sugar while boiling for even caramelization; avoid stirring to prevent crystallization and a grainy texture.
• Let It Rest: Allow the bread pudding to sit for 10-15 minutes after baking to enhance its flavors and texture before serving.
• Experiment with Fruits: While pears shine in this recipe, feel free to swap them with apples or peaches for a delightful twist on your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding.
• Layer with Care: When layering, gently toss the bread and custard mixture to ensure even distribution of the pears and custard for a harmonious flavor in every bite.
Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What kind of bread should I use for the Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
Opt for stale French bread for the best results. The stale bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in a rich and gooey texture. Fresh bread can become soggy, which we definitely want to avoid. If you’re in a pinch, you can slice and toast fresh bread for about 7-10 minutes until slightly dried out before using it.
How should I store leftover Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake them at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help maintain that delicious gooey texture you loved when it was freshly made.
Can I freeze Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze, cut the bread pudding into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, it can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat as mentioned above for a warm, comforting dessert.
What can I do if my caramel sauce is grainy?
If your caramel sauce turns grainy, it might be due to crystallization. To fix this, simply place it back on low heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves again. To prevent this next time, avoid stirring the sugar while it cooks, and if needed, use a pastry brush dipped in water to wash down any sugar crystals that form on the sides of the pot during cooking.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the brandy in the recipe?
Yes, you can omit the brandy altogether for a non-alcoholic version without compromising taste. If you’re looking for an alternative, try using a splash of vanilla extract or apple juice to maintain that depth of flavor. You can also enhance the spice aroma by using extra ground cardamom or a hint of almond extract.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Definitely! You can substitute the butter with coconut oil, use almond milk for the milk, and cashew cream in place of heavy cream. For the caramel sauce, opt for coconut cream instead of heavy cream. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, dairy-free Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding without missing out on the delightful flavors!
Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding: A Cozy Winter Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cube the French bread into bite-sized pieces and toast in the oven for 7-10 minutes.
- Melt the butter in a skillet, then add the pears, brown sugar, brandy, and ground cardamom. Sauté until tender.
- Whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cardamom, and salt. Add the reserved pear syrup.
- Layer half of the toasted bread cubes in a greased baking dish, top with half the sautéed pears, then repeat the layers.
- Pour the custard mixture over the top and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle raw turbinado sugar over the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes.
- Prepare the caramel sauce by heating heavy cream, steeping crushed cardamom pods, and mixing with boiled sugar and orange juice.
- Serve the warm bread pudding drizzled with orange caramel sauce.