WOW them with dessert:: make pumpkin bread pudding!

This pumpkin bread pudding is so easy to make and is a great alternative to pumpkin pie. Since it makes a large batch, you can easily make as much as you need to fit your crowd. Plus, you can alleviate some stress by making the raisin bread ahead of time. Or, simply use a good-quality store bought bread. Your guests will never know the difference, and you'll be a stress-free hostess.Assemble this dessert first thing Thanksgiving morning, cover it with foil, and place it in the fridge until you're ready to bake it. You can pull it fresh from the oven and serve it warm. You can also bake it in personal ramekins, so everyone has their own dish. It's a cute and memorable presentation.Don't forget a dollop of fresh whipped cream (or even ice cream), too. Look for this and more recipes plus great entertaining tips in my book Picture Perfect Parties. Enjoy!

Pumpkin Bread PuddingMakes 8 servings

You will need:- 1 cup heavy cream, *milk can be a substitute for cream- ¾ cup canned solid-pack organic pumpkin- ½ cup sugar- 6 large eggs- ½ teaspoon salt- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves- 6 cups cubed (1-inch) day-old raisin bread- ¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts- 1 stick unsalted butter, meltedTo prepare:Preheat oven to 350 degrees FWhisk together cream, pumpkin, sugar, eggs, salt, and spices in a bowl.Toss bread cubes with butter in another bowl, then add pumpkin mixture and toss to coat. Transfer to an ungreased 8-inch square baking dish and bake until custard is set, 25 to 30 minutes.Serve with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.Photo Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn