If you’re anything like me and have a soft spot for cozy, comforting desserts that highlight fresh fruit, then this Easy Peach Bread Pudding Recipe is going to become one of your all-time favorites. I absolutely love how the juicy, tender peaches lend a lovely sweetness and moisture to the classic bread pudding, making every bite taste like a warm hug. It’s a dessert that works perfectly for weekend brunches, family dinners, or even a casual get-together when you want something that’s impressive but incredibly simple to whip up.
What makes this Easy Peach Bread Pudding Recipe truly special is how straightforward it is, yet the results feel decadent and homemade without the fuss. When I first tried this, I was amazed by how the flavors melded together—the cinnamon sugar sprinkle dancing with the fresh peaches, topped off with a dreamy, silky caramel sauce. You’ll find that it’s a great way to use up slightly stale bread, turning it into something deliciously memorable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples and fresh peaches for an easy prep.
- Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for family dinners, brunch, or bringing to potlucks.
- Versatile & Customizable: Swap fruits or nuts to make it your own.
- Comfort in Every Bite: A warm, gooey dessert that’s light on fuss but heavy on flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a balanced texture and flavor in your bread pudding—rich custard-soaked bread, fresh peaches, and a luscious caramel sauce. When shopping, look for perfectly ripe peaches that are soft yet firm, as they’ll hold up well during baking.
- Bread: I prefer day-old or slightly stale bread because it soaks up the custard without falling apart.
- Eggs: They’re the backbone of the custard that binds everything together.
- Butter (Melted): Adds richness and helps with that buttery flavor in every bite.
- Vanilla Yogurt: I like the tang it adds—it’s a subtle twist that keeps the pudding moist and flavorful.
- Milk: Classic custard component; whole milk works best for creaminess.
- Sugar: Split between the custard and the cinnamon sugar topping for balanced sweetness.
- Fresh Peaches: The star ingredient, peeled, pitted, and diced for tender fruit pieces.
- Pecans, Chopped: For a crunchy contrast; you can substitute with walnuts if preferred.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spices up the topping for that cozy flavor.
- Caramel Sauce Ingredients (Unsalted Butter, Heavy Cream, Brown Sugar): Homemade caramel elevates every serving with sweet, silky goodness.
Variations
One of my favorite things about this Easy Peach Bread Pudding Recipe is how you can easily tailor it to suit what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to get creative—I’ve tried a few tweaks that add exciting twists!
- Fruit Swaps: Substitute peaches with nectarines, apricots, or even frozen berries when peaches are out of season. I did this last winter, and the berry version was a hit.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut yogurt and almond milk instead of regular yogurt and milk for a dairy-free twist that doesn’t compromise creaminess.
- Nut-Free: Leave out the pecans or swap in toasted coconut flakes for crunch.
- Extra Spice: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar sprinkle for added depth—trust me, it’s amazing.
How to Make Easy Peach Bread Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Soak the Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray—this keeps the pudding from sticking while baking. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, vanilla yogurt, and milk until smooth. Then, add 2 cups of sugar slowly, stirring gently until it dissolves; this ensures your pudding has just the right sweetness. Toss in the diced peaches and bread cubes, folding everything carefully so the bread is evenly coated without breaking apart. Let this mixture soak for about 30 minutes—this is key to achieving that perfect custardy texture where the bread absorbs all those luscious juices.
Step 2: Add Cinnamon Sugar and Bake
While your bread is soaking, mix the cinnamon and remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar in a small bowl. Pour the soaked bread mixture into your prepared baking dish and evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the top. Cover loosely with a piece of foil that’s been lightly buttered—this traps steam and keeps your pudding moist during the first part of baking. Bake covered for 20 minutes; this stage allows the custard to set gently without drying.
Step 3: Add Pecans and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and sprinkle chopped pecans on top for a crunchy texture I absolutely adore. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the center is set. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The pecans add this wonderful contrast that keeps the pudding exciting bite after bite.
Step 4: Whip Up the Caramel Sauce
While the pudding bakes, prepare the caramel sauce by combining butter, heavy cream, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly and bring the mix to a boil—then reduce the heat and let it simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. This homemade caramel is silky and rich, a perfect counterpoint to the fruity bread pudding. Drizzle it over individual servings just before serving, and don’t forget a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Peach Bread Pudding Recipe
- Use Day-Old Bread: I learned this makes the pudding soak up the custard better without becoming mushy.
- Peach Prep: Peel your peaches carefully to avoid tough skin that can distract from the soft texture.
- Don’t Skip the Soak: Letting the bread and peach mixture rest really seals in moisture and flavor.
- Caramel Consistency: Watch the caramel closely—simmering too long can make it harden; you want it pourable and smooth.
How to Serve Easy Peach Bread Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping this peach bread pudding with a generous drizzle of homemade caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts beautifully on warm pudding. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans on top adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal. Sometimes, I throw on a fresh mint leaf for a touch of color and freshness—it’s simple but elevates the presentation.
Side Dishes
Because this dessert feels so rich and comforting, I like pairing it with lighter sides like a crisp green salad if serving at brunch. For cozy dinners, a cup of strong coffee or chai tea complements it wonderfully, balancing the sweetness. When I serve this at gatherings, a dollop of whipped cream on the side is always a crowd-pleaser.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve served this peach bread pudding in individual ramekins, which make it feel extra cozy and personal. Offering a small jar of caramel sauce on the side lets guests drizzle as much as they like, making it interactive. On holidays, dusting with powdered sugar and adding fresh peach slices or edible flowers gives it a festive touch that impresses every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It actually tastes fantastic warmed up the next day, and the flavors deepen overnight. Just make sure to cover it well so it doesn’t dry out or absorb other fridge aromas.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, I recommend portioning the pudding into freezer-safe containers or bags. From my experience, it freezes nicely for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave for a minute or two until warm, or warm in a low oven (around 325°F) covered with foil to prevent drying. If your bread pudding feels a little dry, a quick brush of melted butter or a drizzle of leftover caramel sauce on top makes it taste fresh and luscious again.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen peaches for this Easy Peach Bread Pudding Recipe?
Yes! Frozen peaches work just fine, especially when fresh ones aren’t in season. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that can make the pudding soggy.
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What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Bread that’s a day or two old is perfect because it soaks in the custard better without turning mushy. I like using French or Italian bread, but brioche adds a lovely richness if you want to splurge a bit.
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How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk, and swap regular yogurt with a dairy-free coconut or almond-based yogurt. Use a plant-based butter alternative for the caramel sauce, although it will modify the flavor slightly.
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Can I prepare the bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bread pudding the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Then bake it fresh the next day, which makes morning prep a breeze.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Easy Peach Bread Pudding Recipe as much as I do. It’s one of those recipes that brings a sense of warmth and homemade comfort that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re treating your family or surprising guests, it’s so rewarding to pull this golden, fragrant dessert out of the oven and watch everyone’s faces light up. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients transform into something truly special and delicious.
PrintEasy Peach Bread Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Peach Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert combining tender bread soaked in a sweet, creamy mixture with fresh peaches and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, baked to golden perfection. Topped with crunchy pecans and drizzled with a rich homemade caramel sauce, it’s a comforting treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Bread Pudding:
- 8 cups bread, cubed
- 3 eggs
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup vanilla yogurt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for cinnamon sugar mixture)
Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the 3 eggs, then add the melted butter, vanilla yogurt, and milk. Slowly stir in 2 cups of sugar until dissolved.
- Add bread and peaches: Fold the diced fresh peaches and cubed bread into the egg mixture, mixing well to combine.
- Soak the bread: Let the mixture soak for 30 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid fully.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon for sprinkling.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the top. Cover loosely with buttered foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Add pecans and continue baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle chopped pecans on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Make caramel sauce: While the bread pudding bakes, combine butter, heavy cream, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly and bring to a boil.
- Simmer sauce: Reduce heat to low and simmer the caramel sauce for about 5 minutes until it thickens to a rich consistency.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over individual servings of bread pudding and top with vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better absorption and texture.
- You can substitute fresh peaches with frozen, just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding.
- Vanilla ice cream enhances the dessert but is optional.
- Ensure the caramel sauce is thickened but still pourable for best presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/16 of recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg