Name: Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding with Orange Cardamom Caramel Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 cups cubed French bread; 2 tbsp butter; 3 pears, peeled and diced; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 oz brandy (optional); 2 tsp ground cardamom, divided; 5 eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ½ cup sugar; ½ tsp kosher salt; 2 tbsp raw turbinado sugar (optional); ¾ cup heavy whipping cream; 10 cardamom pods; 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

Jump to Recipe

If you are searching for a uniquely cozy and delicious dessert to impress your friends and family, look no further, because this Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding with Orange Cardamom Caramel Sauce Recipe is pure magic. Combining the tender warmth of fragrant cardamom-spiced bread pudding with the luscious punch of a bright, citrusy caramel sauce, this dish captures fall’s finest flavors and elevates them into an unforgettable treat. Each bite delivers soft, custardy bread bits mingled with sweet, aromatic pears draped in a silky orange-infused caramel that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or a special weekend indulgence, this recipe is bound to become your new favorite.

A round white wooden plate holds a warm dessert made of soft, light brown bread pieces soaked in thick, shiny dark brown syrup. The bread pieces are unevenly cut and piled loosely, with small chunks of fruit mixed in. A gold fork lifts a piece of the dessert near the bottom center of the plate. The plate sits on a white marbled surface decorated with green pine branches and frosted pinecones around the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering straightforward, wholesome ingredients is key to making this dish sing. Each element plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color—resulting in a comfort dessert that feels both familiar and sophisticated.

French bread (12 cups, cubed): The backbone for the pudding with a sturdy texture that crisps slightly while absorbing custard.
Butter (2 tbsp plus 6 tbsp for sauce): Adds richness and helps caramelize the pears and sugar for depth.
Pears (3 peeled and diced): Bring natural sweetness and a gentle fruity softness that complements the cardamom perfectly.
Brown sugar (2 tbsp): Enhances caramel notes and aids in tenderizing the pears during cooking.
Brandy (1 oz, optional): Introduces a warm complexity and subtle boozy aroma to the pear mixture.
Ground cardamom (2 tsp divided): The star spice giving distinctive floral, sweet, and slightly citrusy nuances.
Eggs (5): Essential for creating that luscious custard that binds the bread together.
Milk (2 cups): Provides creaminess without being too heavy.
Heavy whipping cream (1 cup plus ¾ cup for sauce): Elevates richness and brings smoothness to both pudding and sauce.
Sugar (½ cup plus 1 ½ cups for sauce): Sweetens and balances all flavors while caramelizing beautifully.
Kosher salt (½ tsp plus ½ tsp for sauce): Enhances all the flavors and contrasts the sweetness.
Raw turbinado sugar (2 tbsp, optional): Adds a lovely crunchy topping to the pudding’s surface.
Cardamom pods (10): Infuse the caramel sauce with an aromatic freshness.
Water (¼ cup): Helps dissolve the sugar to form the caramel.
Orange juice (¼ cup) and zest of 1 orange: Bring a balanced citrus brightness and subtle acidity that brighten the sauce.

How to Make Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding with Orange Cardamom Caramel Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Cube your French bread into 1-inch pieces, then spread these cubes out on a baking pan. Bake for about 7 to 10 minutes until they are dried out but not browned. This drying step ensures the bread will soak up the custard evenly without turning mushy. Once ready, lightly spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with non-stick spray and set it aside for assembly.

Step 2: Cook the Pears

In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add your diced pears and sauté gently for 3 to 4 minutes, just until they start to soften and release their juices. Stir in the brown sugar, brandy if using, and half a teaspoon of ground cardamom, then continue cooking till the pears are tender. Remove from heat and scoop the pears out with a slotted spoon, leaving behind the flavorful syrup. This syrup will enhance your custard beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, sugar, the remaining ground cardamom, and salt. Next, pour in the reserved pear syrup, folding it in to infuse the custard with pear sweetness and spice. This liquid mixture is what will soak into the bread cubes and create that irresistible creamy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Bread Pudding

Layer half of your toasted bread cubes into the prepared baking dish, followed by half the cooked pears. Repeat to create a second layer. Pour the custard over the entire dish, then gently toss the bread with your hands to ensure every piece is soaked. Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow absorption, then toss again softly so the custard is fully distributed. For a delightful crunchy finish, sprinkle raw turbinado sugar evenly on top before baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the assembled pudding in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, with the top lightly golden and set. This bake time develops the perfect custardy center alongside a delicately crisp surface.

Step 6: Prepare the Orange Cardamom Caramel Sauce

While the pudding bakes, make your luscious sauce. Warm the remaining ¾ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Lightly crush the cardamom pods and add them to the cream. Bring just to a simmer, cover, and reduce to low heat to steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t boil over. Once infused, strain out the pods and set the cream aside.

Step 7: Caramelize the Sugar

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water and place over medium-high heat. Let the sugar dissolve, swirling the pot gently to encourage even melting. If sugar crystals form along the edges, brush them down cautiously with a wet pastry brush to prevent crystallization. Continue cooking until the syrup turns a dark amber color, around 10 to 12 minutes, swirling occasionally for even caramelization.

Step 8: Finish the Sauce

Carefully add the butter cubes to the caramel – beware of bubbling and splattering. Swirl to melt. Then slowly pour in the cardamom-infused cream and orange juice. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so step back. Stir until silky smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the orange zest, salt, and a pinch of ground cardamom. Let cool slightly; this sauce will provide the perfect citrus-spiced contrast to your bread pudding.

How to Serve Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding with Orange Cardamom Caramel Sauce Recipe

A rectangular white baking dish with a red outer edge holds a warm bread pudding made of many uneven-sized golden brown bread cubes soaked in a shiny caramel sauce. The top layer is textured with some crispy, darker brown spots and a sprinkle of coarse sugar crystals, giving a crunchy look. The dish is placed on a wooden surface, surrounded by green pine branches and brown pinecones in the background, creating a cozy holiday feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For that extra special touch, sprinkle freshly chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy elegance, while a few fresh mint leaves can brighten the presentation. Don’t forget a drizzle of the warm orange cardamom caramel right before serving; it transforms each bite into pure bliss.

Side Dishes

This pudding pairs beautifully with simple complements such as a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to cool the spices and add richness. For something more substantial, a lightly dressed green salad with tangy vinaigrette can balance the decadence, making it a wonderful finish to holiday meals.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress guests by serving this bread pudding in individual ramekins for a cozy, personal dessert experience. Alternatively, slice it into squares and arrange on a stylish platter for buffet-style serving. You might also scoop warm pudding into elegant dessert glasses layered with whipped cream and fruit compote for a stunning visual treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, cover your bread pudding tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it just as delightful when reheated for a quick second serving.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the bread pudding before baking in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw fully overnight in the fridge before baking fresh, or freeze baked portions after cooling and reheat gently in the oven to bring back that just-baked charm.

Reheating

Warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds or reheat the whole baking dish at 325°F for 15 to 20 minutes covered with foil to prevent drying out. Drizzle with a little extra orange cardamom caramel sauce after warming and enjoy a dessert that tastes like it was freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for the bread pudding?

French bread works best due to its sturdy texture that absorbs the custard without falling apart. However, you can experiment with brioche, challah, or sourdough for a richer or tangier profile—just make sure the bread is slightly stale or toasted to avoid sogginess.

Is brandy necessary in this recipe?

Brandy adds a lovely warmth and depth but is entirely optional. You can leave it out or substitute with apple juice or orange juice for a non-alcoholic version that still complements the pears beautifully.

How important is the cardamom in this recipe?

Cardamom is the key spice that sets this bread pudding apart, imparting a unique floral and citrusy aroma that pairs exquisitely with pears and orange flavors. Don’t skip it, but feel free to adjust the amount slightly to suit your spice preference.

Can I prepare the caramel sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The orange cardamom caramel sauce can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated in a sealed container. Gently warm it before serving to bring out its silky texture and bright flavors.

What’s the best way to serve leftover bread pudding?

Leftover bread pudding tastes fantastic when reheated and served warm with a scoop of ice cream or an extra drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also transform it into a decadent breakfast by topping with fresh fruit and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Final Thoughts

This Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding with Orange Cardamom Caramel Sauce Recipe is a heartwarming showstopper that truly feels like a hug on a plate. Its layers of texture and intriguing flavors offer the perfect balance of cozy and bright, making it a dessert you will want to revisit again and again. So go ahead, try it out—your kitchen will fill with the most inviting scents, and your loved ones will thank you with every bite.