Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that warms the heart and soul. It combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the aromatic spice of cardamom, creating a cozy treat perfect for any occasion. This bread pudding is baked until golden brown and served with a luscious orange caramel sauce, making it an irresistible indulgence. If you love desserts that combine unique flavors with comforting textures, you’re in for a treat with this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
This bread pudding is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:
- Infused with the warm flavor of cardamom and the sweetness of ripe pears.
- Perfect for any season, especially during the fall and winter months.
- Simple ingredients make it an accessible recipe for all skill levels.
- Great for meal prep, as it can be made ahead and reheated.
- Versatile enough to adapt with your favorite spices or fruits.
- Perfect for serving at gatherings or as a cozy family dessert.
This spiced pear bread pudding is not just an ordinary dessert; it’s a fusion of flavors that come together beautifully!
Ingredients for Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
Gather these items:
- 5 cups cubed brioche or French bread (slightly stale)
- 2 ripe pears (peeled and diced)
- 3 eggs (large)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cardamom
- 0.5 tsp cinnamon
- salt (pinch)
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp butter
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 1 orange zest
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- salt (pinch)
How to Make Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a baking dish.
- Step 2: Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Step 3: Place bread cubes and diced pears in the baking dish and pour custard over them. Let soak for 15 minutes.
- Step 4: Drizzle melted butter over the top and bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and set.
- Step 5: For the caramel, melt sugar in a saucepan without stirring until amber. Whisk in butter, then cream.
- Step 6: Add orange zest, orange juice, and salt; simmer briefly until smooth.
- Step 7: Serve warm bread pudding with warm orange caramel sauce.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
Keep these in mind:
- Use slightly stale bread for better texture.
- Let the pudding soak longer if you prefer a denser texture.
- Experiment with different fruits or spices for variations.
- Ensure the custard mixture is well combined for even flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
Enhance your dessert experience with these serving ideas:
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with whipped cream for added richness.
- Top with toasted nuts for a crunchy texture.
How to Store and Reheat Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
To keep your pudding fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding
What’s the secret to perfect Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
The secret lies in the soaking time! Allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture long enough for a rich, moist texture. Use fresh, ripe pears and quality spices for the best flavor.
Can I make Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pudding a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving for a freshly made taste.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding?
To prevent a soggy texture, ensure your bread is slightly stale. Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the pudding. Follow the soaking instructions carefully for the best results.
Variations of Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding You Can Try
Here are some exciting alternatives:
- Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added sweetness.
- Incorporate nuts such as walnuts or almonds for crunch.
- Try different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
- Substitute apples or peaches for a different fruit flavor.
Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and let your creativity shine!

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake or Irresistible Orange Zest Cranberry. If you’re looking for a comforting meal, you might also enjoy our Creamy Cauliflower Soup or Southern Buttermilk Biscuits.
For more information on the health benefits of cardamom, you can visit Healthline.
Print
Delicious Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm, spiced bread pudding filled with tender pears and finished with a bright, buttery orange caramel sauce.
Ingredients
- 5 cups cubed brioche or French bread (slightly stale)
- 2 ripe pears (peeled and diced)
- 3 eggs (large)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cardamom
- 0.5 tsp cinnamon
- salt (pinch)
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp butter
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 1 orange zest
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- salt (pinch)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a baking dish.
- Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Place bread cubes and diced pears in the baking dish and pour custard over them. Let soak 15 minutes.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top and bake 40–45 minutes until golden and set.
- For the caramel, melt sugar in a saucepan without stirring until amber. Whisk in butter, then cream.
- Add orange zest, orange juice, and salt; simmer briefly until smooth.
- Serve warm bread pudding with warm orange caramel sauce.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding, Bread Pudding, Dessert, Pear Dessert