Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe

If you love the comforting flavors of apple pie but want to try something a little different, this Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe is an absolute treasure. Imagine the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg mingling with tender chunks of apples, all soaked into soft, buttery bread that bakes into a luscious, custardy treat. It’s like apple pie took a cozy bath in creamy goodness, resulting in a dessert that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, this dish delivers nostalgia with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a pivotal role in the final flavor and texture. From the rich custard base to the crisp apples, every component is essential for that perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and fruity goodness.

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread: Using day-old brioche or challah adds richness and ensures the bread soaks up the custard without turning mushy.
• 3 large eggs: Eggs provide the custardy texture that binds all ingredients together wonderfully.
• 1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and creaminess for a tender pudding.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Contributes to the luxurious, creamy mouthfeel.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just right, balancing the tartness of the apples.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts the flavor profile with warm, familiar notes.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic spice that complements the apples beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the spice mix.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite sing.
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples provide a tart crunch that contrasts with the pudding’s creaminess.
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional): For a sweet, chewy surprise in every spoonful.
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a caramelized sweetness when drizzled on top.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Used in the topping for a golden, crisp finish.

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish generously with butter or cooking spray. This ensures that your bread pudding doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly after baking. A well-prepped pan sets you up perfectly for the steps ahead.

Step 2: Combine Bread and Custard Base

Place the cubed bread into a large mixing bowl. In another bowl, whisk your eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream together until smooth and combined. This custard will soak into each piece of bread, transforming it into that dreamily soft texture we crave.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients to Custard

To your custard mix, add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk everything together until smooth. These spices and vanilla are what give the pudding its quintessentially warm and comforting apple pie vibe.

Step 4: Soak the Bread

Pour the flavored custard over the bread cubes and stir gently to make sure all pieces are well coated. Then, let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This soaking period is crucial—it allows every piece of bread to absorb the custard fully, which creates that satisfying custardy center after baking.

Step 5: Incorporate Apples and Raisins

Fold the diced apples and raisins, if using, into your soaked bread mixture. Make sure everything is evenly spread throughout the pudding base, so every spoonful has a delicious burst of apple and a hint of sweetness from the raisins.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the soaked mixture into your prepared baking dish, pressing down gently to compact it slightly. This helps the pudding hold its shape and bake evenly.

Step 7: Create the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar with melted butter until combined. Drizzle this evenly over the top of the pudding—this topping caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding a delightful crunch and contrast to the soft base.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the pudding is set in the center but still tender. The aroma during baking will fill your kitchen with irresistible apple pie memories.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the Apple Pie Bread Pudding rest for a few minutes. Cooling slightly makes it easier to serve and allows the pudding to finish setting, giving you those perfect custard pockets with each bite.

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate this Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe, sprinkle some powdered sugar or drizzle warm caramel sauce on top. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add creaminess that complements the warm spices and tender apples perfectly.

Side Dishes

This bread pudding is fantastic on its own but pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea for an indulgent breakfast or dessert moment. For added heartiness, try serving alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette—balance is key!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation, ideal for dinner parties or cozy gatherings. Or go for a rustic look by baking and serving directly from the dish, creating a warm, family-style feel everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe leftovers keep nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it an even better treat the next day.

Freezing

If you’re making this ahead for a big event, you can freeze the baked pudding. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1 to 2 minutes, or reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through. Adding a little extra butter on top before reheating can help refresh the texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread for the Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe?

While you can experiment, day-old brioche or challah works best because their slightly sweet and rich qualities soak up the custard without becoming mushy. Sturdier breads like French bread can work too, but the texture may differ slightly.

Do I have to use raisins in the recipe?

Raisins add a lovely sweetness and texture contrast but are completely optional. Feel free to omit them or swap with nuts like pecans for some added crunch instead.

Can I make the custard mixture ahead of time?

Yes! You can whisk all the wet ingredients together a day ahead and store in the refrigerator. Just combine with the bread and apples right before baking to keep everything fresh.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with an equal amount of whole milk, but expect a slightly less rich and creamy final pudding. Alternatively, half-and-half works nicely if you have it on hand.

How do I know when the pudding is fully cooked?

It’s ready when the top is a beautiful golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly—kind of like a soft custard. If you insert a knife or toothpick, it should come out mostly clean without wet batter.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe is truly a comforting hug in dessert form. Its blend of familiar apple pie spices, tender bread soaked in creamy custard, and simple homemade goodness make it a standout dish for any time. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones—once you do, it might just become your new favorite go-to for warm, cozy indulgence.

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