Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of cardamom with the sweetness of ripe pears. This dish is perfect for various occasions, from holiday gatherings to cozy family dinners. With its rich custard and soft bread texture, it offers a unique twist on traditional bread pudding, making it an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of cardamom and pears creates an irresistible aroma and taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert without any hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or cold, topped with cream or ice cream for a delightful treat.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for holidays or special occasions, this recipe serves 12 people comfortably.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add your favorite fruits to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A variety of sizes helps in mixing ingredients efficiently without spilling.
• Baking dish: Choosing the right size ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden top.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 12 cups cubed french bread
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Filling

• 3 pears (peeled and diced)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 oz apple juice (optional)
• 2 tsp ground cardamom (divided)

For the Custard

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

For Topping & Additional Flavor

• 2 tbsp raw turbinado sugar (optional)
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
• 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: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Bread and Pears

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed french bread, diced pears, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy whipping cream, sugar, kosher salt, and remaining ground cardamom until well blended. Pour this custard over the bread mixture and gently fold until all pieces are soaked.

Step 4: Bake the Pudding

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle raw turbinado sugar on top for added crunch. Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce (Optional)

While baking, combine water, sugar, butter, orange juice, zest, and cardamom pods in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until melted. Simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Serve Your Delightful Dessert

Let your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with orange sauce if desired or serve with whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence! Enjoy!

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 flavors and presentation. Here are some creative suggestions for serving this warm, comforting dish.

Warm with Cream

• Serve the bread pudding warm straight from the oven, drizzled with heavy whipping cream for extra richness.

With Fresh Fruit

• Top each serving with slices of fresh pear or seasonal fruits like berries to add a refreshing contrast to the rich pudding.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair your bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy, cold complement that contrasts beautifully with the warm pudding.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce on top for a sweet, sticky finish that enhances the cardamom flavor.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over each serving for added crunch and nuttiness, balancing the softness of the pudding.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust powdered sugar over the top just before serving for an elegant touch that makes it look even more tempting.

How to Perfect Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

To ensure your Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Stale Bread: Use slightly stale French bread as it absorbs liquid better without getting too soggy.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of ground cardamom based on your taste preference; start with less and add more if desired.
• Soak Thoroughly: Allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking to ensure even flavor and texture.
• Bake in a Water Bath: For an evenly cooked pudding, place your baking dish in a larger pan filled with hot water; this helps maintain moisture during baking.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, your pudding is ready. If not, bake a little longer.
• Let it Rest: Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai enhances the aromatic qualities of cardamom while providing a cozy beverage.
2. Cinnamon Applesauce: This sweet and tart side offers freshness that balances the richness of the bread pudding.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted root vegetables brings earthiness to the table, contrasting nicely with dessert flavors.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad topped with citrus vinaigrette adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness of the pudding.
5. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fresh fruit creates a light option that pairs well after indulging in dessert.
6. Caramelized Bananas: Sautéed bananas in brown sugar provide a sweet addition that echoes some flavors found in the bread pudding.
7. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses offers savory bites that balance out dessert sweetness effectively.
8. Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa seasoned with herbs introduces a hearty grain option that complements richer dishes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• It’s easy to overlook the bread quality. Using stale or low-quality bread can lead to a soggy texture. Always opt for fresh, crusty French bread for the best results.
• Don’t skip the spices. Cardamom is essential for flavor. Ensure you use the right amount and adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Be cautious with oven temperature. An incorrect temperature can result in overcooking or undercooking. Use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy.
• Avoid overmixing the egg mixture. Mixing too vigorously can create a dense pudding. Gently combine until just mixed for a light, fluffy texture.
• Don’t forget about letting it sit. Allowing the mixture to rest before baking helps the bread absorb flavors and moisture, enhancing the overall taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cover with plastic wrap or foil to keep it moist.

Freezing Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before wrapping tightly.

Reheating Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly for about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is a delicious dessert made with cubed French bread, pears, eggs, milk, cream, and cardamom spice.

How do I adjust sweetness in Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
You can reduce or increase the sugar based on your preference by adjusting both brown and granulated sugars used in the recipe.

Can I use other fruits instead of pears?
Yes! You can experiment with apples, peaches, or berries to create different flavor profiles while maintaining the same base recipe.

Is Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for gatherings and celebrations due to its rich flavors and comforting texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate overnight before baking it fresh just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is not only a delightful dessert but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. You can customize it by adding nuts or different fruits as desired. Give this recipe a try; your guests will love it!