If you’re a fan of apple pie and bread pudding, why not combine them into one decadent dessert? This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is warm, comforting, and loaded with the cozy flavors of cinnamon, apples, and caramel. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a special family treat, this dessert brings all the flavors of a classic apple pie in a rich, custardy bread pudding.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Bread Pudding Ingredients
- 8 cups day-old bread, cubed (French bread or brioche)
- 4 cups apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Topping Ingredients
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce, for drizzling
- Optional: Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread and Apples
In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and chopped apples. Toss them together to evenly distribute the apples throughout the bread.
Step 3: Make the Custard
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Soak
Pour the custard mixture over the bread and apple mixture. Gently stir to ensure that all the bread cubes are coated with the custard. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the bread pudding cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cook Notes
- Bread Choice: French bread or brioche works best for this recipe. Day-old bread is ideal as it absorbs the custard without becoming too mushy.
- Apples: Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples provide a sweeter note. Feel free to mix different types of apples for a more complex flavor.
- Custard Absorption: Letting the bread sit in the custard mixture for 15 minutes is key to achieving a rich, moist texture.
Variations
1. Apple Cranberry Bread Pudding
Add 1/2 cup dried cranberries to the bread and apple mixture for a festive twist with a pop of tartness.
2. Caramel Pecan Bread Pudding
Top the bread pudding with 1/2 cup chopped pecans before baking for added crunch, and drizzle with extra caramel sauce for a decadent finish.
3. Bourbon Apple Bread Pudding
Add 2 tablespoons bourbon to the custard mixture for a boozy kick that pairs wonderfully with the apples and caramel.
Serving Suggestions
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich bread pudding.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the warmth of the bread pudding with a cool, creamy texture.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle with extra caramel sauce for an added layer of sweetness and indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the bread pudding and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for 20-30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze Bread Pudding?
Yes, you can freeze bread pudding. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
This Apple Pie Bread Pudding brings together the best of two classic desserts in one irresistible dish. The combination of tender apples, warm spices, and rich custard-soaked bread makes for a comforting and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it with whipped cream, ice cream, or extra caramel, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and savor every cozy bite!
Did you make this recipe? Let us know in the comments below how it turned out and share your favorite variations or serving ideas!
