The Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of ripe pears. This dish is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a cozy treat on a chilly evening. Its unique flavor profile comes from the aromatic cardamom and juicy pears, making it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this bread pudding is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The blend of cardamom and pears creates a sweet and spicy profile that is both comforting and exotic.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dessert without any hassle.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a casual family dinner, this dish fits right in.
• Great for Leftovers: Bread pudding tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with cream or chilled as part of a dessert spread.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to organize your ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: A whisk helps blend ingredients smoothly, ensuring even distribution of flavors throughout the pudding.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Base

• 12 cups cubed french bread
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 pears (peeled and diced)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 oz apple juice (optional)
• 2 tsp ground cardamom (divided)

For the Custard Mixture

• 5 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ tsp kosher salt

For Topping (Optional)

• 2 tbsp raw turbinado sugar (optional)
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream

For Cardamom Syrup

• 10 cardamom pods (see note)*
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• ¼ cup water
• 6 tbsp butter
• ¼ cup orange juice
• zest of 1 orange
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• pinch ground cardamom

How to Make Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare Bread Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread with melted butter. Toss until evenly coated.
2. Add the diced pears, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom. Mix gently.

Step 3: Create Custard Mixture

1. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, salt, and remaining ground cardamom until well combined.
2. Pour this custard mixture over the prepared bread mixture. Allow it to soak for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Bake the Pudding

Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Bake for approximately 60 minutes or until set and golden on top.

Step 5: Make Cardamom Syrup (Optional)

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, water, cardamom pods, orange juice, zest, salt, and butter.
2. Stir until sugar dissolves; bring to a simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm drizzled with cardamom syrup or chilled with whipped cream on top. Enjoy your delicious Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding!

How to Serve Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your dish even more enjoyable.

Warm with Whipped Cream

• Serve the bread pudding warm, topped with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream for a creamy texture.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a rich layer of caramel sauce over the bread pudding to complement the sweetness of the pears and cardamom.

With Fresh Fruit

• Garnish each serving with slices of fresh pear or other seasonal fruits for added freshness and color.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Pair your bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, which melts beautifully into the warm dessert.

Sprinkled with Nuts

• Top with toasted walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft bread pudding.

Served in Individual Portions

• For an elegant touch, bake the pudding in ramekins and serve individual portions, making it perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

To create the most delicious Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding, consider these helpful tips that can elevate your baking experience.

• Use stale bread: Day-old French bread absorbs custard better, yielding a moist and flavorful pudding.
• Let it soak: Allow the bread cubes to soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking to achieve optimal flavor absorption.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the pudding while it bakes; it should be golden brown on top and set in the center when done.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg alongside cardamom for additional warmth and complexity.
• Chill before serving: Letting the pudding cool slightly will help it set more firmly, making it easier to slice and serve.

Best Side Dishes for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

Pairing side dishes with your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Apples: Sweet apples roasted with cinnamon sugar complement the flavors of the pudding perfectly.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots: These vibrant carrots add a touch of sweetness and color, balancing the richness of the dessert.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, sweet bread pudding.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes can round out a comforting meal when served alongside desserts.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic offers a nutritious green option that pairs well with any sweet dish.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish adds an even sweeter element, making it perfect for holiday gatherings when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoiding over-soaking: Too much liquid can make your bread pudding too soggy. Ensure you measure your milk and cream accurately.
• Ignoring spice balance: Using too much cardamom can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended measurements for the best flavor.
• Skipping bread quality: Using stale or low-quality bread can affect the texture. Opt for a good quality, slightly stale French bread for optimal results.
• Not prepping pears: Failing to peel and dice pears properly can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure they are cut uniformly for even distribution.
• Overbaking or undercooking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can dry it out, while undercooking will leave it soggy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent odors from other foods.

Freezing Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

• You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.
• Wrap portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?

Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert made with cubed bread, diced pears, eggs, milk, cream, and flavored with cardamom spice.

How do I customize Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even mix in chocolate chips. Different spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg also work well.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! While pears are delicious, you can substitute them with apples or berries depending on your preference and seasonal availability.

How do I serve Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?

Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the day before and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is a versatile dessert that combines warm spices with sweet fruit. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it truly your own!

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Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding, a comforting dessert that beautifully marries the aromatic spice of cardamom with the sweetness of ripe pears. This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner. The creamy custard envelops tender bread and juicy pears, creating a satisfying texture that will leave your guests longing for more. Serve it warm with whipped cream or chilled as part of an elegant dessert spread—either way, it’s sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 cups cubed French bread
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 pears, peeled and diced
• 5 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup sugar
• 10 cardamom pods
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground cardamom (divided)
• 2 tbsp raw turbinado sugar (optional)
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream (for topping, optional)
• ¼ cup water
• ¼ cup orange juice
• zest of 1 orange
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• pinch ground cardamom

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cubed bread with melted butter. Toss until evenly coated. Add diced pears and brown sugar; mix gently.
3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, salt, and ground cardamom until combined.
4. Pour custard mixture over bread mixture and let it soak for at least 15 minutes.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for about 60 minutes until golden brown on top.
6. Serve warm or chilled with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 130g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: Use stale French bread for optimal absorption of the custard mixture. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or chocolate chips for added texture. Letting the pudding cool slightly before serving can help it set better for slicing.