Apple Pie Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in a cozy hug, then this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is just the thing! Imagine thick slices of brioche bread soaked in a creamy custard, combined with the warm, spiced goodness of homemade apple pie filling. It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and chilly fall evenings. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something comforting or special occasions when you want to impress your guests with minimal fuss.

What I love most about this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is how easy it is to whip up, yet it feels so indulgent. With simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand, you’ll create a dessert that everyone will rave about. Whether it’s served at brunch, as an after-dinner delight, or even as a breakfast treat the next day, this sweet dish never disappoints!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy every bite of this delicious dessert.
• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, you can have this baked delight ready in no time.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead and simply bake when you’re ready to serve!
• Comforting flavors: The combination of warm apples and rich custard creates a cozy taste that warms the soul.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dinner with friends, this dessert fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are wholesome and easy to gather. They come together beautifully to create a comforting dessert that’s sure to impress.

For the Bread Pudding

• 12 thick-cut slices of brioche bread or 12 brioche rolls, preferably dried out overnight
• Optional: turbinado sugar, for topping

For the Apple Filling

• 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

For the Custard

• 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Change the bread: Use challah or even croissants for different textures and flavors.
• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add great crunch and flavor.
• Incorporate dried fruit: Raisins or cranberries can give an extra touch of sweetness and chewiness.
• Experiment with spices: A dash of nutmeg or ginger can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your oven first ensures that it’s hot enough for baking as soon as you’re ready.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease your baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later on!

Step 3: Cook the Apples

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the flour and apple pie spice, stirring until well combined. Then add brown sugar along with diced apples and water. Cover this mixture while it cooks until the apples soften (about 10-15 minutes). Straining out excess juices saves them for drizzling later!

Step 4: Whisk Up Your Custard

In another saucepan over medium-low heat, combine all custard ingredients except for eggs. Whisk until melted and smooth. Remove from heat before adding eggs one at a time—this keeps your custard creamy without scrambling those eggs!

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

Cut your brioche into cubes. Start layering by placing one-third of the bread cubes in the prepared pan, pressing down gently. Follow with one-third of your apple filling, repeating until you’ve used everything up.

Step 6: Pour on That Custard

Carefully pour your custard mixture over the layered bread and apples, ensuring every piece gets soaked. Press down gently to avoid dry spots—this step is key for achieving that delightful texture.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle some turbinado sugar on top if desired. Place in your preheated oven on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for about 35-40 minutes until golden brown but still slightly wobbly in the center.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy

After letting it cool for about ten minutes post-baking, serve warm topped with vanilla ice cream and those fabulous reserved apple juices! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Making this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect dessert!

• Use stale bread: Opt for brioche that has been dried out overnight. Stale bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in a creamier texture.
• Mix apple varieties: Combining different types of apples, like sweet Gala and tart Granny Smith, enhances the flavor profile and adds depth to your filling.
• Let it rest: After baking, allow your bread pudding to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Customize spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding nutmeg or cardamom can give your bread pudding an extra layer of warmth and comfort.
• Serve warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm, allowing the custard to be soft and gooey while complementing the vanilla ice cream beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Presenting this dessert can be as fun as making it! Here are some thoughtful ideas to make your serving stand out.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a lightness that balances out the richness of the bread pudding.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each serving for an indulgent touch that enhances the apple flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the warm bread pudding.
• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! Creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the warm bread pudding, creating a deliciously comforting combination.
• Cinnamon sugar donuts: These sweet treats add an extra layer of sweetness and are perfect for dipping into leftover custard.
• Coffee or chai tea: A warm beverage complements the flavors beautifully and adds a cozy vibe to your dessert experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Apple Pie Bread Pudding will be sure to impress at any gathering! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to whip up in advance and enjoy throughout the week. With a few simple storage techniques, you can savor this delightful dessert whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the bread pudding has cooled completely.
• Cut into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
• Place the bread pudding in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Apple Pie Bread Pudding.

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

Absolutely! While brioche provides a rich flavor, you can substitute with challah, French bread, or even stale white bread. Just ensure it’s slightly dried out for the best texture.

How do I make Apple Pie Bread Pudding ahead of time?

You can prepare it ahead by assembling everything up to the baking step, covering it tightly, and refrigerating overnight. When you’re ready, just bake it according to the instructions!

What makes this Apple Pie Bread Pudding special?

This dessert combines the cozy flavors of apple pie with creamy custard-soaked brioche, creating a warm and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I add nuts or raisins to my Apple Pie Bread Pudding?

Certainly! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or add raisins for extra sweetness and texture. Just be sure not to overfill your dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delicious Apple Pie Bread Pudding as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day, filled with comforting flavors that remind us of home. Enjoy every bite, share it with loved ones, and let this sweet treat bring smiles all around. Happy baking!