Why You’ll Love this Sweet Potato Bread Pudding With Rum Sauce Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines comfort and sophistication, you’ll adore this Sweet Potato Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce.
It’s a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding that warms the soul. The creamy texture of sweet potatoes adds a unique richness, while the rum sauce elevates the flavor profile to something truly special.
Each bite balances sweetness and spice, creating a cozy yet elegant experience. Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings or a quiet night in.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving this comforting dessert again and again. It’s simply irresistible!
Ingredients of Sweet Potato Bread Pudding With Rum Sauce
When it comes to baking, having the right ingredients is key to creating that perfect dish. Sweet Potato Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce is no exception. This recipe isn’t only comforting but also has an elegant twist that will impress your family and friends. Imagine the warmth of sweet potatoes mixed with the richness of cream and the kick of rum. It’s a delightful combination, and the ingredients are quite straightforward. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to gather for this tasty dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 cups raisins
- 1/4 cup dark rum (and a bit more for sipping if you’re feeling adventurous)
- 5 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 quart whipping cream
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons cane syrup
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 8 ounces French bread, torn into 1-inch pieces (that’s about half a loaf)
- Whipped cream (for garnish, because why not?)
For the Rum Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups butter
- 1/4 cup dark rum (yes, again)
- 3 cups sifted powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
Now, before you get started, it’s worth noting a few things about these ingredients. First off, sweet potatoes are the star here, and you really want to use the good stuff. Try to pick sweet potatoes that are firm and without blemishes.
The type of bread you choose can also play a big role—French bread gives a lovely texture, but if you have leftover bread that’s a bit stale, feel free to use that too. Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better, making for an extra moist pudding.
And let’s talk about that rum. Using a quality dark rum will enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish. Plus, if you happen to spill a little while measuring, no one will judge you for sneaking a taste.
Just keep it fun and enjoy the process of making this delicious dessert. Your taste buds will thank you later.
How to Make Sweet Potato Bread Pudding With Rum Sauce

Making Sweet Potato Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce is a delightful journey that will fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting aromas of cinnamon and sweetness. Let’s get started, shall we?
First, take your 1 1/4 pounds of sweet potatoes, peel them, and chop them finely. I always feel a bit like a chef in a fancy restaurant when I chop vegetables, even if it’s just for dessert. Once they’re ready, toss those little orange gems into a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover them up and let them steam for about 10 minutes or until they’re tender. This step is essential because we want the sweet potatoes soft enough to blend beautifully into the pudding mixture later.
While your sweet potatoes are steaming, let’s tackle the raisins. Grab 2 cups of those little jewels, and combine them with 1/4 cup of dark rum in a bowl. Give that a little stir, and let it sit. This is a good time to take a moment and maybe sneak a sip of that rum yourself—just a little taste for quality control, right?
Now, in another bowl, whisk together 5 large eggs, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 quart of whipping cream, 2 cups of half-and-half, 2 tablespoons of cane syrup, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Make sure everything is combined nicely; you want a smooth mixture here.
Once that’s done, add in the torn 8 ounces of French bread, the sweet potatoes, and the rum-soaked raisins. Mix it all together gently; you want the bread to soak up all that creamy goodness without turning into mush.
Now, grab two lightly greased 11×7-inch baking dishes and spoon the mixture evenly into them. Don’t worry if it looks a bit chaotic; it’s all going to come together beautifully in the oven.
Pop those into your preheated oven at 350 degrees and let them bake for about an hour. Keep an eye on them—if they start to brown too much, just cover them with foil.
While they’re baking, you can prepare the rum sauce. Melt 1 1/2 cups of butter over low heat in a heavy saucepan, then stir in another 1/4 cup of dark rum and 3 cups of sifted powdered sugar. Whisk it until smooth, and then add in 1 egg yolk, cooking and stirring constantly until it reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Just imagine how rich and luscious that sauce will be; it’s the perfect finishing touch.
Once your pudding is set, serve it warm with that rum sauce drizzled over the top and a dollop of whipped cream. Trust me, your taste buds will be doing a happy dance.
Sweet Potato Bread Pudding With Rum Sauce Substitutions & Variations
After enjoying the warm, comforting flavors of Sweet Potato Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce, you might find yourself wanting to experiment with different ingredients or techniques.
I love swapping out sweet potatoes for butternut squash for a unique twist. You can also replace dark rum with bourbon or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
For a nutty crunch, toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try almond milk instead of half-and-half.
Finally, don’t hesitate to add spices like nutmeg or ginger to elevate the taste. Creativity is key in the kitchen!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Bread Pudding With Rum Sauce
What pairs perfectly with the warm, rich flavors of Sweet Potato Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce? I love serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm pudding.
A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch, too. If I want to elevate the experience, I might whip up a spiced apple compote. The tartness of the apples balances the sweetness of the pudding.
Finally, a hot cup of spiced chai or coffee rounds out the meal, making it a cozy, comforting dessert that everyone will enjoy.
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing Sweet Potato Bread Pudding, I often find that a few extra tips can enhance the final result.
First, make sure to mash the sweet potatoes well for a smoother texture. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon.
I also recommend letting the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes before baking, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid.
For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving.
Finally, serve it warm for the best experience, paired with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy!