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Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Apple Pie Bread Pudding: A Cozy Twist on Classic Flavors

Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a comforting dessert that combines the best of two beloved treats—apple pie and bread pudding. With tender apples, warm spices, and custardy bread soaked in a sweet sauce, this dessert is perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or whenever you’re in the mood for something cozy. Top it off with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Table of Contents

  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
  • Cooking Notes
  • Variations
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

  • 6 cups day-old bread (cubed; brioche or challah works best)
  • 2 large apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread and Apples

  1. Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add the diced apples to the bread cubes and gently toss to combine.

Step 3: Make the Custard

  1. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  2. Pour the custard mixture over the bread and apples, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

  1. Transfer the bread and custard mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Drizzle the mixture over the top of the bread pudding.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Let the bread pudding cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
  2. Serve warm, topped with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Cooking Notes

  • Bread: Day-old bread works best for this recipe as it will absorb the custard without becoming too soggy. If your bread is fresh, you can lightly toast it in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out.
  • Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are great choices for this recipe because they hold their shape well and add a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
  • Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of cardamom can give a unique twist to the flavor.

Variations

Caramel Apple Bread Pudding

  • Stir 1/2 cup of caramel sauce into the custard mixture before baking for an extra indulgent caramel flavor.

Pecan Apple Bread Pudding

  • Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the bread and apple mixture for a delightful crunch that pairs well with the tender bread and apples.

Bourbon Apple Bread Pudding

  • Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the custard mixture for a rich, warming flavor that complements the apples and spices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Bread Pudding Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the bread pudding up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before baking.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?

Absolutely. You can use French bread, Italian bread, or even croissants for a richer texture. Just make sure the bread is slightly stale for the best results.

Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a comforting, cozy dessert that brings together the classic flavors of apple pie in a deliciously easy-to-make bread pudding. Whether you enjoy it as a holiday dessert or simply as a comforting treat at home, this bread pudding is sure to be a hit. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy every warm, spiced bite.

Happy baking, and enjoy this delightful Apple Pie Bread Pudding!