Apple Pie Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dessert that wraps you in a cozy hug, then this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is just what you need! This recipe blends the comforting flavors of apple pie with the soft, custardy goodness of bread pudding, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. With rich brioche bread soaked in a creamy custard and layered with homemade apple pie filling, it’s hard not to fall in love with this dish.

What makes this Apple Pie Bread Pudding extra special is how easy it is to prepare. Not only will it impress your guests, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up any leftover bread. Plus, who can resist the warm aroma of apples and cinnamon wafting through the house? Trust me; this dessert will become a beloved favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Comforting: This dessert is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly evenings.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, even novice bakers can whip this up with ease.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the combination of apples and bread pudding, making it a hit at the table.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it ahead of time and simply bake when you’re ready to indulge!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with vanilla ice cream or even as a breakfast treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, bringing together flavors that complement each other beautifully. Gather these items for your Apple Pie Bread Pudding:

• 12 thick-cut slices of brioche bread or 12 brioche rolls, preferably dried out overnight
• Optional: turbinado sugar, for topping
• 1 3/4 lb apples of choice (~5 apples; I used a mixture of Gala and Granny Smith), peeled and diced
• 4 tbsp salted butter
• 2 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp apple pie spice
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup milk of choice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 tbsp salted butter
• 1/4 cup + 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Optional: 1/2 tsp apple pie spice
• 4 eggs, at room temp

Variations

One of the great things about this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment and make it your own:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out apples for pears or berries – delicious alternatives!
• Spice It Up: Add nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
• Go Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut cream instead of regular milk and heavy cream.

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Greasing the baking pan ensures that your pudding will come out easily after baking. Lining it with parchment paper adds an extra layer of security against sticking!

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Adding flour and apple pie spice gives our filling that classic flavor. Then stir in brown sugar until everything combines into a thick mix. Adding diced apples and water helps soften them up nicely while cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Apples

Cover your saucepan and let those apples simmer! Stir occasionally until they’re soft—this usually takes around 10–15 minutes. Once done, strain out any excess juices (save those flavorful juices!) and set aside.

Step 4: Whisk Together the Custard

In another saucepan over medium-low heat, combine all custard ingredients except eggs. Whisk until melted together. Remove from heat before adding eggs one at a time; whisking means they won’t scramble!

Step 5: Assemble the Bread Pudding

Cut your brioche into cubes and start layering! Place one-third into your greased pan, followed by one-third of the apple filling. Repeat twice more until everything is used up. Pour that creamy custard over top, ensuring every piece is well-soaked.

Step 6: Bake

Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top if desired. Bake in your preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes until golden brown but still slightly wobbly when shaken—this ensures it’s perfectly custardy inside.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once baked, let it sit for about ten minutes before diving in! Serve warm with that delicious apple juice drizzled on top alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream—pure bliss!

Enjoy!

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is sure to be a crowd-pleaser no matter where you serve it! It’s perfect any day you crave something sweet and satisfying. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Creating the perfect Apple Pie Bread Pudding is easier than you might think! With a few handy tips, you can elevate your dessert game and impress your family and friends.

• Use Stale Bread: Using dried-out brioche bread allows it to soak up more custard without turning mushy. This results in a beautifully textured pudding with the right balance of softness and structure.

• Cook Apples Thoroughly: Ensure your apples are soft before layering them into the bread pudding. This step enhances their flavor and ensures they meld perfectly with the custard during baking.

• Mix Custard Well: Whisk your custard ingredients thoroughly, especially after adding each egg. This ensures an even distribution of flavors and a silky-smooth texture throughout the pudding.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your bread pudding to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve while preserving that luscious, gooey interior.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth in flavor. These spices can bring a delightful twist that enhances the overall experience of this comforting dessert.

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

When it comes to serving your Apple Pie Bread Pudding, presentation can make all the difference! Here are some creative ideas to make this dessert even more inviting.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the rich flavors of the pudding.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over individual servings creates a deliciously sweet contrast with the cinnamon-spiced apple filling.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling crushed pecans or walnuts on top not only adds crunch but also enhances the rustic appeal of this cozy dessert.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing! The creamy, cool ice cream contrasts beautifully with warm bread pudding, making every bite memorable.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad serves as a light counterbalance to the richness of the bread pudding, providing a palate-cleansing component.
• Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: For added crunch, serve some crispy tortilla chips dusted with cinnamon sugar on the side for dipping into any leftover sauce.
• Herbal Tea: Offering a cup of soothing herbal tea alongside your dessert can enhance the overall experience, providing warmth and comfort after a hearty meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to enjoy an unforgettable Apple Pie Bread Pudding experience! Whether it’s for brunch or dessert, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy your baking adventures!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dessert any time. Whether you want to prepare it ahead of time for a gathering or simply save some for later, it stores beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven as needed.

Freezing

• Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For frozen bread pudding, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350F and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common inquiries about this delightful dish!

Can I use different types of bread for Apple Pie Bread Pudding?

Absolutely! While brioche adds a rich flavor and texture, feel free to experiment with challah or even day-old croissants for a unique twist.

What can I substitute if I don’t have apple pie spice?

If you don’t have apple pie spice on hand, you can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. This will give you that warm spice flavor reminiscent of traditional apple pie.

How do I know when my Apple Pie Bread Pudding is done baking?

Your Apple Pie Bread Pudding should be golden on top and slightly wobbly in the center when you shake it. A good rule of thumb is to bake until it’s just set; overbaking may dry it out.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Pie Bread Pudding recipe fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas! It’s such a comforting dessert that combines the best elements of apple pie and bread pudding into one heavenly dish. Enjoy making it, sharing it with loved ones, and savoring every bite. Happy baking!