Appetizer & Dessert

Bread Pudding With Pears Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Name: Bread Pudding With Pears Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 2 loaves rustic artisan bread, sliced into ¾-inch strips, crusts removed; 4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly; 8 large eggs; 1 cup half-and-half cream; 2 cups velvety heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup creamy unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/4 cups premium baking flour; 1 1/4 cups fine granulated sugar, divided; 1/4 cup rich molasses-infused brown sugar; 2 tablespoons honey; 4 teaspoons pure vanilla bean extract, divided; 1/4 cup fragrant pear liqueur; 1 1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt, divided; 1 teaspoon warm aromatic cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 pinch freshly grated cinnamon

Willie Regan April 11, 2025

Servings: 12 Total Time: 55 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the rich world of bread pudding with pears, let’s talk about perfect companions for this delightful dessert.

Imagine enjoying this warm, custardy treat alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cool creaminess of the ice cream balances the warm, spiced pudding beautifully.

Perhaps you fancy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich espresso. The slight bitterness helps cut through the sweetness and richness of the pudding. You might even try it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps sweetened with a touch of maple syrup.

All these elements enhance the experience without overshadowing the star of the show—our scrumptious bread pudding with pears.

What is Bread Pudding with Pears?

At its core, bread pudding is a delightful blend of bread, eggs, and milk. When you add pears, everything changes. The fruit introduces moisture, natural sweetness, and a hint of sophistication. The casserole-like dessert emerges from the oven, golden-brown and inviting.

Traditionally, bread pudding originated in the United Kingdom, a way to use up stale bread. It’s hearty, versatile, and can be adapted in numerous ways. When bringing pears into the mix, you elevate the dish, infusing it with layers of flavor and texture that make it irresistible.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile of bread pudding with pears is a delightful tapestry of contrasts. First, you have the soft, custardy texture that envelops the fruit. The pears provide juicy sweetness, which beautifully complements the creamy, rich base.

You’ll notice the subtle warmth from spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Each bite brings a comforting, slightly spiced note, while the vanilla and pear liqueur add depth and sophistication. Together, it creates a harmony that feels both nostalgic and refined.

If you’re a fan of desserts that feel like a cozy blanket, this one is sure to wrap you up in its deliciousness.

What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Bread Puddings?

What sets this bread pudding apart? For starters, the choice of ingredients makes a big impact. Using artisan bread ensures a robust backbone, while ripe pears introduce a fresh twist. The addition of molasses-infused brown sugar contributes a unique depth of flavor.

You don’t just get sweetness; you receive complexity.

Moreover, this recipe skills in balancing flavors. It doesn’t drown the pears in sugar; instead, their natural sweetness shines. Lastly, the use of both heavy cream and half-and-half yields an unbelievably rich and creamy result. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the shopping list for your culinary adventure:

2 (1-pound) loaves rustic artisan bread, sliced into ¾-inch strips, crusts removed
4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly
8 large eggs
1 cup half-and-half cream
2 cups velvety heavy whipping cream
½ cup creamy unsalted butter, softened
1 ¼ cups premium baking flour (all-purpose)
1 ¼ cups fine granulated sugar, divided
¼ cup rich molasses-infused brown sugar
2 tablespoons honey
4 teaspoons pure vanilla bean extract, divided
¼ cup fragrant pear liqueur
1 ½ teaspoons fine sea salt, divided
1 teaspoon warm aromatic cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 pinch freshly grated cinnamon

Step-by-Step Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a beautiful bread pudding in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start with your rustic artisan bread. Slice it into strips about ¾ inch thick. Make sure to remove the crusts; this will ensure your pudding has a soft and pleasing texture.

Place the bread strips on a baking sheet and let them get a little stale. Don’t rush this; stale bread helps absorb the custard better. Let it sit for about an hour or pop it in a low oven for 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half-and-half cream. Then, slowly stir in the heavy cream, honey, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Gradually add in the molasses-infused brown sugar, sea salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 3 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Pears

In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the stale bread with the pear slices. Ensure every piece is coated. Then, pour the custard mixture over the bread. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial; it allows the bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with some creamy unsalted butter. This will help the pudding not stick and enrich the flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the soaked bread mixture into your greased baking dish. Drizzle the remaining vanilla extract and sprinkle a pinch of sugar over the top. This creates a lovely caramelized top. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the pudding is set in the middle and golden on top.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the pudding cool for about 15 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps it firm up a bit. Serve it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream.

Tips on Making Bread Pudding with Pears

Here are five tips to ensure your bread pudding with pears comes out perfectly every time:

Use old bread: Stale or day-old bread works best for this recipe. Fresh bread can become mushy and fail to hold its shape.
Choose ripe pears: Make sure your pears are ripe. This enhances the overall sweetness and flavor. Avoid hard pears; they don’t soften enough during baking.
Experiment with spices: While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic, feel free to experiment. Cardamom or ginger could provide an exciting twist.
Let it soak: Don’t skip the soaking step. Allowing the bread to absorb the custard creates the signature texture that makes bread pudding enjoyable.
Serve with flair: Elevate presentation by serving with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.

How Can I Store This Bread Pudding with Pears?

Bread pudding can typically be stored for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can also be placed in an airtight container.

If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven.

Substitutes for Ingredients

If you find yourself lacking some ingredients, here are alternatives to consider:

Bread: Challah or brioche is an excellent substitute for artisan bread. Both types are rich and flavorful, giving your pudding a wonderful taste and texture.
Pears: Can’t find pears? Apples work well; just adjust the baking time slightly, as they tend to hold their shape better than pears. They offer a nice crunch.
Heavy cream: Don’t have heavy cream on hand? Whole milk and an additional tablespoon of butter mixed together can serve as a decent alternative for a lighter version.
Pear liqueur: If you can’t find pear liqueur, substitute it with apple juice or even vanilla extract for a different but still delicious flavor.

Conclusion

Bread pudding with pears is a delightful way to elevate leftovers into something memorable. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just treating yourself, this cozy dish is sure to please.

Its rich flavors are perfect for any occasion, and the flexibility makes it easy to adapt based on what you have at hand.

As you gather around the table, serving this warm from the oven, you’ll not only enjoy the dessert but also the laughter and warmth of those around you. So grab your ingredients and let’s get baking. You won’t regret it!

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Bread Pudding With Pears Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Author: Willie Regan Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 35 mins Total Time 55 mins

Servings: 12 Calories: 680 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

There’s something about comfort food that feels like a warm hug. You know the kind I’m talking about: rich, satisfying, and sometimes a bit indulgent. Bread pudding with pears tops the list of sweet delights that takes me straight back to my childhood.

Growing up, I watched my grandmother whip up this classic dish, transforming leftover bread and ripe, juicy pears into a masterpiece.

Today, I want to share this comforting recipe with you. It’s more than just a dessert; it tells a story that celebrates simple ingredients and the magic of home cooking. If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate humble bread into something extraordinary, keep reading.