Pin it Experience a delightful fusion of flavors with this Guava Caramel Bread Pudding With Pecans. This recipe takes the classic, comforting texture of bread pudding and elevates it with the tangy, tropical sweetness of guava paste and the deep richness of caramel. It is an irresistible dessert that balances a creamy custard center with a crunchy nut topping.
Pin it This dessert is all about texture and balance. The cubes of brioche act as a sponge for the vanilla custard, while the guava paste melts into bright, fruity pockets. Layering the caramel sauce throughout the dish ensures that every serving is infused with buttery sweetness, making it a perfect finale for any meal.
Ingredients
- 8 cups (about 300 g) day-old brioche or challah, cubed
- 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup (300 g) guava paste, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 3/4 cup (85 g) chopped pecans
- 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter, melted (plus more for greasing)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt.
- Step 3
- Add cubed bread to the custard mixture. Gently stir to coat and let soak for 10 minutes.
- Step 4
- Fold in the guava paste cubes and half of the chopped pecans.
- Step 5
- Pour half of the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with half the caramel sauce. Add remaining bread mixture and drizzle with the rest of the caramel sauce.
- Step 6
- Sprinkle the top with remaining pecans and drizzle melted butter over the surface.
- Step 7
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden and set in the center. If top browns too quickly, tent with foil.
- Step 8
- Let cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with extra caramel if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure a perfectly set pudding, make sure the bread cubes are well-submerged during the 10-minute soaking period. Greasing the dish thoroughly with butter not only prevents sticking but also helps develop a delicious, golden-brown crust around the edges.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a tropical twist, consider adding a handful of shredded coconut to the custard mixture. If pecans aren't your favorite, you can easily substitute them with chopped walnuts to maintain that essential crunch.
Serviervorschläge
This bread pudding is most delicious when served warm from the oven. For a truly decadent experience, serve each portion à la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light dollop of freshly whipped cream.
Pin it With its vibrant guava heart and decadent caramel finish, this Guava Caramel Bread Pudding With Pecans is a standout dessert. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet weekend treat, this medium-difficulty recipe yields eight generous servings that celebrate the best of fusion baking.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh guava instead of guava paste?
Guava paste works best because it's concentrated and holds its shape during baking. Fresh guava would release too much liquid and make the custard soggy. If you can't find guava paste, guava membrillo or thick guava preserves are good alternatives.
- → What type of bread should I use?
Brioche or challah are ideal because they're rich and absorbent. Day-old bread works better than fresh since it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy. French bread or sandwich bread can substitute, though the texture will be slightly less decadent.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Assemble the dish up to 8 hours before baking and refrigerate. Add the topping pecans just before baking. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes, restoring that freshly baked warmth and crisp top.
- → How do I know when it's done baking?
The pudding is ready when the center is set and no longer jiggles like liquid, about 40-45 minutes. The top should be golden brown. If it browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking time.
- → Can I substitute the pecans?
Walnuts make an excellent substitute with a similar buttery flavor. For a nut-free version, simply omit them or replace with pumpkin seeds for crunch. The dessert will still be delicious without nuts.