Guava Caramel Bread Pudding

This Guava Caramel Bread Pudding with Pecans is an irresistible dessert that combines comfort and tropical flair. Soft brioche or challah bread is soaked in a rich, velvety custard, then layered with vibrant cubes of tangy guava paste and sweet, golden caramel sauce. Every bite offers a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures, making it a sophisticated finish to any meal.

Save

Whether you are preparing this for a festive brunch or a cozy dinner party, the aromatic vanilla and melted butter create an inviting fragrance that fills the home. This recipe is a wonderful way to use day-old bread, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet treat that is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.

Ingredients

• Bread & Dairy
• 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
• Guava & Caramel
• 1 cup (300 g) guava paste, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
• Nuts
• 3/4 cup (85 g) chopped pecans
• Butter
• 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 the best texture, always allow the bread to soak in the custard for the full 10 minutes. If the top of the pudding begins to brown too quickly during the bake, simply tent the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the pecans from burning while the center sets.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a tropical twist, you can stir a handful of shredded coconut into the custard mixture. If you prefer a different nut profile, chopped walnuts serve as an excellent substitute for the pecans, providing a similar crunch and earthy flavor.

Serviervorschläge

This dessert is best enjoyed warm from the oven. For an extra indulgent experience, serve each portion with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream, finished with a final drizzle of warm caramel sauce.

Save

Indulge in the harmonious blend of Latin American guava and classic caramel bread pudding. This recipe promises a rich, satisfying dessert that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy the warm, gooey center and the crispy, buttered pecan topping for a truly memorable culinary experience.

Saffron Brook Recipe Q&As

→ What type of bread works best?

Day-old brioche or challah produces the best results due to their rich texture and ability to absorb custard without becoming mushy.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking cold from the refrigerator.

→ How do I know when it's done?

The custard should be set in the center and the top golden brown. A knife inserted near the edge should come out clean, while the center may still have a slight wobble.

→ Can I use fresh guava instead?

Guava paste provides concentrated sweetness and texture. Fresh guava would add too much moisture and alter the custard consistency.

→ What can I serve alongside?

Warm wedges pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for an even more decadent presentation.