Name: Pecan Sticky Bun Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12-15 (17.6oz) thick-cut slices of brioche bread, preferably dried out overnight, cut into 1” cubes; Vanilla ice cream, for serving; 1 cup (220g) brown sugar, light or dark (mixture of both preferred); 6 tbsp (85g) salted butter, melted; 2 tsp (4g) cinnamon; 1 tsp (4g) vanilla bean paste or extract; Pinch of salt; 2 cups (205g) chopped pecans; 1 cup (240ml) milk of choice; 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream; 4 eggs, at room temperature; 1/4 cup (55g) granulated sugar; 2 tbsp (28g) salted butter, melted and slightly cooled; 1 tsp (4g) vanilla bean paste or extract; 1 tsp (2g) cinnamon; Large pinch of salt; 1/4 cup (85g) maple syrup; 3 tbsp (55g) smooth, creamy almond butter; 2 tbsp (25g) avocado oil or melted coconut oil; Large pinch of salt

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If you’re dreaming of a dessert that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every bite, this Pecan Sticky Bun Bread Pudding Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Imagine soft cubes of brioche bread, perfectly soaked in a rich vanilla bean custard, layered with a luscious sticky pecan filling that transforms into a gooey, golden topping after baking. Served warm alongside melting vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, it’s the ultimate cozy, bakery-style treat that’s just as perfect for a special brunch as it is for a soothing after-dinner indulgence.

Ingredients You'll Need

A round pecan pie with a rich, dark brown glossy topping full of chopped pecans, arranged tightly to cover the entire pie surface. One slice is cut and slightly pulled out, showing a thick layer of sticky pecan filling above a light golden crust at the bottom, all on white parchment paper on a white plate. The plate sits on a wooden table next to an open jar of dark caramel sauce and a small bowl of coarse white sea salt. Warm sunlight casts soft shadows across the scene, highlighting the pie’s shiny texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe is a beautiful blend of simple, straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its rich flavors, inviting textures, and irresistible aroma. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to bring out the perfect harmony of sweet, buttery, nutty, and creamy notes.

Brioche bread cubes (12-15 slices, dried out): The star base offering a soft yet sturdy texture that soaks up the custard wonderfully.

Brown sugar (1 cup): Adds deep caramel notes essential for that sticky pecan filling.
Salted butter (6 tablespoon melted + 2 tablespoon for custard): Creates richness and perfect buttery flavor throughout.
Cinnamon (2 teaspoon + 1 tsp): Brings a warm, fragrant spice that complements both the filling and custard.

Vanilla bean paste or extract (2 teaspoon total): Offers authentic vanilla brightness, crucial for that bakery-style taste.
Chopped pecans (2 cups): The crunchy nutty element that makes this bread pudding uniquely sticky bun-inspired.
Milk and heavy cream (1 cup each): The creamy base of the custard that soaks the bread cubes tenderly.

Eggs (4): Bind the custard ingredients together and set the texture perfectly.
Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Balances the flavors with subtle sweetness, blending smoothly into the custard.
Flaky sea salt (for finishing): Enhances and contrasts the sweetness to elevate every bite.

Vanilla ice cream (for serving): The perfect cool, creamy partner for the warm pudding.
Optional salted caramel ingredients: Maple syrup, almond butter, avocado or coconut oil, and a pinch of salt bring a luscious drizzle option to the table.

How to Make Pecan Sticky Bun Bread Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Bread

Start by greasing your 9-inch baking pan with cooking spray and lining it with parchment paper that overhangs the edges for easy removal later. If your brioche isn't dried out overnight, give your bread cubes a quick toast at 350°F (175°C) for 7-10 minutes—just enough to create a light crust so they soak up the custard without turning mushy.

Step 2: Make the Sticky Pecan Filling and Topping

In a bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans, coating them evenly with the rich, buttery caramel mixture that will be layered inside and on top of your bread pudding to create that signature sticky bun glaze.

Step 3: Whip Up the Vanilla Bean Custard

Combine your milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla bean paste, cinnamon, and a large pinch of salt in a bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy, ready to soak your brioche cubes into a custard that’s creamy with a hint of spice and sweetness.

Step 4: Assemble the Bread Pudding

Layer half of the bread cubes in the bottom of your prepared pan, then sprinkle half of the sticky pecan filling over them. Add the remaining bread cubes on top and pour the custard evenly over everything, ensuring every piece is submerged and infused with that luscious custard. Finally, top with the remaining pecan mixture to create a gooey, crunchy crust once baked.

Step 5: Bake and Rest

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-55 minutes, until the custard has set and the top is a beautiful golden brown with bubbling sticky pecans. Once out of the oven, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes to let the pudding set before slicing.

How to Serve Pecan Sticky Bun Bread Pudding Recipe

A single piece of sticky, golden-brown bread pudding sits on a white plate with decorative edges, topped with a thick scoop of melting creamy vanilla ice cream that is beginning to drip down the sides. The bread pudding shows visible layers of soft, moist bread soaked in a syrupy sauce mixed with chopped pecans scattered throughout, creating a rich and textured look. Surrounding the pudding, a warm caramel sauce pools on the plate, blending with melted ice cream and bits of nuts. In the background, the rest of the bread pudding is on a white plate, along with a clear glass jar of caramel sauce with a spoon inside, all set on a white marbled surface. The warm sunlight highlights the shiny glaze and creamy textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking takes the sweetness to the next level by adding a little salty crunch that brightens each bite. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting atop warm pudding adds a luscious cold-and-warm contrast that’s pure magic.

Side Dishes

This dessert stands beautifully on its own or alongside a fresh cup of coffee or a cinnamon-spiced latte for breakfast or brunch. If you want to keep it cozy and indulgent, try pairing with fresh berries or a dollop of lightly whipped cream for a touch of freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For something unique, serve spoonfuls of the bread pudding inside individual mini cast-iron skillets or cute ramekins—perfect for sharing. Drizzle with that optional homemade salted caramel for an extra layer of flavor and a professional, bakery-style finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftovers tightly and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. The bread pudding flavors deepen and become even more incredible after resting overnight, making for an excellent second-day treat.

Freezing

This Pecan Sticky Bun Bread Pudding Recipe freezes wonderfully. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze portions or the whole pan for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through and the top regains some crispness. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for about 45 seconds to 1 minute, adding a scoop of ice cream fresh for that melting delight.

FAQs

Can I use another type of bread besides brioche?

Absolutely! While brioche offers the richest flavor and texture, you can also use challah or a thick-cut white bread. Just ensure it’s slightly dried out to soak up the custard perfectly without becoming mushy.

Is the homemade salted caramel necessary?

Not at all. The bread pudding is delicious on its own, but the salted caramel drizzle adds a sophisticated, sticky sweetness that complements the pecans beautifully. It’s a lovely finishing touch whenever you want to impress.

How long should I soak the bread in custard before baking?

Once assembled, you no longer need to soak it before baking. Pouring the custard over the layered bread allows it to soak during the resting period (if you choose to) and firmly sets during baking for the perfect texture.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it the night before and refrigerate covered. Bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps deepen the flavors and makes your morning or event effortless.

What’s the best way to serve this for a crowd?

Bake it in a large dish and serve family-style with bowls of vanilla ice cream, extra pecan topping, and salted caramel on the side. This lets everyone customize their serving, making it a fun, interactive dessert.

Final Thoughts

This Pecan Sticky Bun Bread Pudding Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorite desserts to share because it feels indulgent without being complicated. Its cozy, nostalgic flavors are perfect for chilly weekends or anytime you want to impress without stress. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a beloved recipe you come back to again and again. Go ahead—treat yourself and those you love to this warm and gooey masterpiece today!

Ingredients You'll Need