Apple Pie Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in warmth and comfort, this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is just what you need! Imagine the delightful aroma of baked apples mingling with rich brioche bread and creamy custard filling your kitchen. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug and is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. This recipe has become a favorite in my home, as it combines the best of both worlds: the classic flavors of apple pie and the nostalgic goodness of bread pudding.

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. You can whip it up on busy weeknights or prepare it ahead of time for special gatherings. Trust me; your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, making this dessert is a breeze.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of apple pie and soft brioche.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven just before serving.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and creamy custard creates an explosion of cozy taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this dish shines on every table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you’ll feel good about serving. Here’s what you 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

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Change the Bread: Swap out brioche for challah or even croissants for a unique twist!
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix Up the Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to switch things up.
• Incorporate Other Fruits: Try adding pears or berries alongside the apples for a fruity medley!

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Greasing your baking pan ensures nothing sticks, while lining it with parchment paper makes removal easy later.

Step 2: Cook the Apples

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and apple pie spice, stirring well. Then stir in brown sugar before adding the diced apples and water. Cover and cook until the apples soften (about 10-15 minutes). This step builds that delicious apple pie flavor!

Step 3: Strain Juices

Once cooked, remove from heat and strain any excess juices from your apple mixture into a separate bowl. Save these juices to drizzle over your finished bread pudding later.

Step 4: Make Custard Mixture

In another saucepan over medium-low heat, combine milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and optional apple pie spice (excluding eggs). Whisk until melted and combined. Remove from heat before gradually whisking in eggs one at a time—this ensures smooth custard without cooking the eggs too much.

Step 5: Prepare Bread Cubes

Cut your brioche into roughly one-inch cubes. This helps them soak up that delicious custard evenly.

Step 6: Layer Ingredients

Place one-third of the bread cubes at the bottom of your prepared pan and press down gently. Top with one-third of your apple filling; repeat twice more until everything is layered nicely.

Step 7: Pour Custard Over Bread

Pour your custard mixture evenly over all layers of bread cubes. Gently press down to ensure everything is soaked through—no dry pieces here!

Step 8: Bake Your Creation

Sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired and bake for about 35-40 minutes until golden on top but still slightly wobbly when shaken. Let it cool for about ten minutes before removing from the pan.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside those lovely reserved juices from earlier. Dig in and enjoy this comforting slice of heaven!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Making the perfect Apple Pie Bread Pudding is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dessert turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use stale bread: Stale brioche holds up better in the custard, absorbing all those delicious flavors without falling apart. If you can, let your bread dry out overnight for optimal results.

• Let it rest: Allowing the assembled bread pudding to sit for at least 10 minutes after baking helps the custard set and makes it easier to slice. This resting period enhances the overall texture!

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices according to your taste! If you love cinnamon, add an extra dash, or try incorporating nutmeg for a unique twist that complements the apples beautifully.

• Check for doneness: Every oven is different! Make sure to check your bread pudding a few minutes before the recommended baking time. It should be golden brown on top and slightly wobbly in the center when done.

• Serve warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm, as it enhances the comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple. If you have leftovers, gently reheat them before serving for that freshly-baked experience!

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Serving this delightful Apple Pie Bread Pudding is just as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this comforting dessert into a show-stopping finale for any meal.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds lightness and a touch of elegance on top of each serving.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar not only looks beautiful but also enhances the flavor profile with a sweet hint of spice.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans over the top for an added crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft pudding.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance out the richness of the bread pudding. Consider mixing seasonal fruits like pears, berries, and citrus for brightness.
• Vanilla ice cream: As mentioned in the recipe, a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creamy goodness that perfectly complements the warm apple pie flavors.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice takes indulgence to another level, making it even more irresistible!
• Coffee or chai tea: Pairing this dessert with a warm beverage like coffee or spiced chai complements its cozy flavors and makes for a comforting end to any meal.

Enjoy bringing your Apple Pie Bread Pudding to life with these tips and serving suggestions; it’s bound to become a favorite in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring that you have a comforting dessert ready to go whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread pudding to cool completely.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, cut the bread pudding into individual portions.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the frozen bread pudding in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered:

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

Absolutely! While brioche provides a rich flavor and texture, you can substitute with challah or even stale white bread. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up against the custard.

How long does Apple Pie Bread Pudding last in the fridge?

When stored properly, your Apple Pie Bread Pudding will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Just be sure to cover it well to maintain its moisture!

Can I make Apple Pie Bread Pudding ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Apple Pie Bread Pudding?

This dish pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Drizzle some of the reserved apple juices on top for added flavor!

Is Apple Pie Bread Pudding suitable for a crowd?

Definitely! This recipe serves 8-10 people, making it an ideal choice for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Pie Bread Pudding brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s such a cozy dessert that combines the delightful flavors of apple pie with the comforting texture of bread pudding. Enjoy making this special recipe, and I can’t wait for you to experience its deliciousness. Happy baking!