Lemon Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Mascarpone
Cubed brioche soaked in spiced pumpkin custard with tart dried cranberries and True Lemon packets, then baked until golden. Served warm with whipped mascarpone and cinnamon. Dark rum adds depth to this autumn-inspired bread pudding with bright citrus notes from powdered lemon packets.
Ingredients
- 1 pound brioche, challah or similar egg-based sweet bread, cut into 1-inch cubes, about 12 cups
- ¾ cup dried cranberries, whole
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
- 2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup dark rum
- 3 packets True Lemonfresh lemon zest1 packet=1 tsp zestcitrus
powder vs fresh intensity differs
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon, ground, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 pint mascarpone cheese, lightly whipped
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- 2
Spread cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast for about 10-12 minutes, turning twice until lightly and evenly toasted.
- 3
In a large bowl whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and 3 tablespoons butter.
- 4
Add rum, True Lemon, and cinnamon to the mixture.
- 5
Gently fold in the toasted bread and cranberries.
- 6
Let stand for 8-10 minutes to allow the moisture to be absorbed.
- 7
Grease an 8x11-inch baking dish with remaining butter and pour in the pudding mixture.
- 8
Bake for 50 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- 9
Cool slightly and serve with whipped mascarpone and cinnamon sprinkle.
Tips
Toast bread cubes ahead to ensure even absorption of custard.
Whip mascarpone gently to avoid overworking and keep it light.
Let pudding cool slightly before serving to allow it to set.
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Assemble pudding mixture and let stand in baking dish up to 4 hours before baking.
Serve warm with whipped mascarpone and cinnamon sprinkle.
Common Mistakes
Do not skip toasting bread to avoid soggy pudding without structural support
Do not overmix when folding in bread and cranberries to avoid compacting cubes
Do not overbake to avoid a dry, rubbery texture
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
powder vs fresh intensity differs