Easy Toasted Coconut Pecan Bread Pudding Recipe | Rich & Indulgent Dessert

A Southern-Inspired Dessert with a Tropical Twist

Inspired by Well Made by Kiley, Kitchen 335, and TikTok food creators, this Toasted Coconut Pecan Bread Pudding is a delightful fusion of Southern comfort and tropical flair. Bread pudding has long been cherished as a timeless dessert, transforming humble stale bread into something rich and indulgent. Its custard base of eggs, milk, and sugar creates a soft, creamy interior, while baking gives it a golden, slightly crisp top. What makes this version special is the addition of toasted coconut flakes and crunchy pecans. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness and tropical aroma, while pecans bring nutty depth and texture. Together, they elevate the classic recipe into something both familiar and exciting. Perfect for weekend gatherings, holiday dinners, or cozy nights at home, this bread pudding is a versatile dessert that feels indulgent yet approachable, offering comfort with a touch of exotic charm.

What Is Toasted Coconut Pecan Bread Pudding?

Toasted Coconut Pecan Bread Pudding is a custard-based dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a decadent treat. Traditionally, bread pudding is made with stale bread soaked in a mixture of milk, eggs, sugar, and butter, then baked until golden and set. This version enhances the classic with toasted coconut flakes and chopped pecans, adding layers of flavor and texture. The coconut lends a tropical sweetness, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch and nutty richness. Served warm, it’s often paired with caramel or vanilla sauce, whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream. The result is a dessert that balances creamy custard with crisp, toasted notes, making it both comforting and indulgent. Whether enjoyed as a family-style dessert or presented elegantly at a dinner party, Toasted Coconut Pecan Bread Pudding is a versatile dish that celebrates tradition while embracing creative twists.

Ingredient Overview

The magic of this bread pudding lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients:

• Bread: Brioche, challah, or French bread are ideal. Their soft crumb absorbs custard beautifully, creating a rich texture.
• Custard base: Eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla form the foundation. This mixture soaks into the bread, ensuring a creamy interior.
• Mix-ins: Toasted coconut flakes add tropical sweetness, while chopped pecans bring nutty crunch and depth.
• Optional toppings: Caramel sauce, whipped cream, or ice cream elevate the dessert further, adding indulgence.

Tip: Toast coconut and pecans before adding them to the custard mixture. This step intensifies their flavor and ensures they stay crisp during baking.

Together, these ingredients create a dessert that is both rustic and refined, offering comfort with a touch of sophistication.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Place rack in the center.
2. Prepare bread: Cube brioche, challah, or French bread into bite-sized pieces. Spread on a baking sheet and toast lightly for 5–7 minutes to dry.
3. Make custard: In a large bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 2 cups milk, 1 cup cream, ¾ cup sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth.
4. Add mix-ins: Fold in 1 cup toasted coconut flakes and 1 cup chopped, toasted pecans.
5. Assemble: Place bread cubes in a greased baking dish. Pour custard mixture evenly over bread, pressing gently to ensure absorption.
6. Soak: Let sit for 20 minutes to allow bread to fully absorb custard.
7. Bake: Place dish in oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean.
8. Serve: Remove from oven and cool slightly. Serve warm with caramel sauce, whipped cream, or ice cream.

Tip: Allowing bread to soak before baking ensures maximum richness and prevents dry spots.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ons

This bread pudding is endlessly adaptable. For a chocolate chip and coconut version, fold in semisweet chocolate chips with the coconut flakes. For a boozy twist, add rum-soaked raisins to the custard mixture. For a tropical variation, incorporate pineapple chunks alongside the coconut and pecans. Each variation adds a unique flavor profile while keeping the comforting essence of bread pudding intact.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Toasted Coconut Pecan Bread Pudding warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for indulgence. Pair with a cup of strong coffee or spiced chai to balance the sweetness. For presentation, garnish with powdered sugar or extra toasted coconut flakes. At gatherings, offer whipped cream or ice cream on the side for guests to customize their servings. Whether plated elegantly or served family-style, this dessert brings warmth and joy to any occasion.