Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of the South with Sweet Potato Praline Bread Pudding with Praline Sauce, a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding that combines the sweet and earthy essence of sweet potatoes with the decadent crunch of praline topping. This irresistible dessert is ideal for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or whenever you want a taste of southern hospitality. This warm bread pudding, drizzled with homemade praline sauce, is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Enjoy the delicious Sweet Potato Praline Bread Pudding with Praline Sauce recipe! 🍠🍞🥮.
Ingredients:
For the Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups day-old bread, cubed (French bread or brioche works well)
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Praline Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Praline Sauce:
- Reserved Praline Topping
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread Pudding:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread and mashed sweet potatoes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and sweet potatoes, and gently toss until the bread is evenly coated. Allow the mixture to sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
- Fold in the chopped pecans, if using, until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
2. Bake the Bread Pudding:
- Transfer the bread pudding mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
3. Prepare the Praline Topping:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter for the praline topping.
- Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, and cook until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chopped pecans.
4. Make the Praline Sauce:
- Reserve about half of the praline topping mixture for serving.
- In another saucepan, combine the reserved praline topping, heavy cream, brown sugar, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the warm Sweet Potato Praline Bread Pudding with a drizzle of the homemade Praline Sauce.
- Garnish with additional chopped pecans, if desired, for an extra crunch and visual appeal.
- Enjoy this decadent dessert with family and friends, savoring each bite of its rich and comforting flavors.
Optional Tips:
- You can prepare the bread pudding ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Simply bake it when ready to serve.
- Feel free to customize the bread pudding by adding raisins, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven before serving.
Finally, Sweet Potato Praline Bread Pudding with Praline Sauce is a delectable combination of sweet potatoes, pecans, and warm spices, all wrapped in a rich custard and topped with a crunchy praline topping. This decadent dessert is a true celebration of Southern flavors and hospitality, ideal for adding comfort and joy to any occasion. This irresistible bread pudding will delight your taste buds and warm your heart, whether served as a special treat during the holidays or as a comforting dessert all year. Preheat your oven and prepare for a delicious Sweet Potato Praline Bread Pudding with Praline Sauce! 🍠🍞🥮.