Apple Pie Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is just the thing. Imagine thick slices of buttery brioche bread soaking up a creamy custard, laced with a homemade apple pie filling. Every bite is like a cozy hug, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s a delightful twist on classic bread pudding that will surely become a favorite in your home!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines the comforting flavors of apple pie with the indulgence of bread pudding. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or simply treating yourself to something sweet after dinner, this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this delicious dessert ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves warm bread pudding! It’s a great way to enjoy apples and brioche together.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble it ahead of time, making it perfect for entertaining or busy days.
• Deliciously comforting: This dessert combines the best of both worlds—soft bread and sweet apple pie flavors that evoke comfort and joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is part of the fun! They are simple and wholesome, ensuring that your Apple Pie Bread Pudding turns out deliciously every time. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Add some nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Mix in dried fruits: Raisins or dried cranberries can add a lovely sweetness.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavor profiles.
• Use different breads: Try challah or even gluten-free bread for a different twist!

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350F. Grease your baking pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal later and helps prevent sticking—trust me, you want this lovely dessert to come out beautifully!

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and apple pie spice; stir well to combine. Then, sprinkle in the brown sugar and mix until it’s all blended together. Now add the diced apples and water. Cover and cook until the apples are soft (about 10–15 minutes). This step brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Strain the Juices

Once your apples are soft, remove from heat and strain them. Save those delicious juices—they’re going to be drizzled over your finished bread pudding later for added flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Custard

In another saucepan over medium-low heat, combine all custard ingredients except for the eggs. Whisk gently until everything is melted and mixed well. Remove from heat before adding eggs one at a time—whisking between each addition is crucial here! The custard will thicken as it bakes.

Step 5: Assemble the Bread Pudding

Cut your brioche into cubes about an inch thick. Place one-third of these cubes at the bottom of your prepared pan and press down firmly. Layer on about one-third of your apple filling next. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with the last third of apple filling on top.

Step 6: Soak with Custard

Pour that luscious custard evenly over everything—make sure every bit gets soaked! Gently press down to ensure no dry pieces remain peeking out. If you want an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle turbinado sugar on top.

Step 7: Bake

Pop it into your preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes on a baking sheet until golden brown but still slightly wobbly when shaken. Let it sit for about ten minutes before removing from the pan; this resting time helps set everything perfectly.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle those saved juices over each serving! Enjoy every comforting bite—you deserve it!

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding will quickly become a beloved recipe in your household just like it is in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Making the perfect Apple Pie Bread Pudding is all about using the right techniques and ingredients, so here are some friendly tips to ensure your dessert turns out deliciously every time!

• Use stale bread: Dried-out brioche absorbs the custard better, resulting in a richer texture. If you don’t have stale bread, cutting fresh brioche into cubes and letting it sit out for a few hours will work too!

• Don’t rush the apple filling: Taking your time to cook the apples until they’re soft allows their flavors to meld beautifully with the spices. This step adds depth and warmth to your bread pudding.

• Let it rest after baking: Allowing your bread pudding to sit for at least 10 minutes after it comes out of the oven helps it set up nicely. This resting period makes slicing and serving much easier!

• Customize with spices: Feel free to play around with spices like nutmeg or even a pinch of ginger in your apple filling. It can give your dessert a unique twist that will surprise and delight your guests.

• Experiment with toppings: While vanilla ice cream is a classic, consider drizzling caramel sauce or serving it with whipped coconut cream for a fun variation that complements the flavors wonderfully.

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Serving your Apple Pie Bread Pudding is as important as making it! With a little creativity, you can present this comforting dessert in delightful ways that will impress everyone at the table.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar over the top just before serving adds sweetness and makes it visually appealing.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint not only adds color but also brings a fresh element that contrasts beautifully with the warm pudding.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm bread pudding, making each bite irresistible.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each serving for an extra touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with apples.
• Coffee or chai tea: A warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea complements the cozy flavors of this dessert, making for a lovely end to any meal.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the bread pudding, providing a palate cleanser between bites.

Now that you have all these wonderful tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to share this delicious Apple Pie Bread Pudding with family and friends. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dessert anytime without the fuss of making it from scratch every time. It stores beautifully and can be made in advance, giving you more time to relax and enjoy with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish back in the oven at 350F for about 10-15 minutes.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, heat individual servings in the microwave on medium power until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dessert:

What is Apple Pie Bread Pudding?

Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a comforting dessert that combines soft brioche bread soaked in creamy custard with homemade apple pie filling, resulting in a warm, cozy treat.

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

Absolutely! You can use any variety of apples you prefer. Mixing sweet and tart apples like Gala and Granny Smith adds depth and flavor to your pudding.

How long does Apple Pie Bread Pudding last?

When stored properly, leftovers can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months!

Can I make Apple Pie Bread Pudding ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute dairy milk with almond milk or oat milk, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a delicious dairy-free option.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try this Apple Pie Bread Pudding! It’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite that brings warmth and comfort into every bite. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy making it, share it with loved ones, and savor every moment of this cozy dessert experience!