Apple Pie Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is just what you need! It combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the comforting texture of bread pudding, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to indulge after a busy weeknight, this recipe brings smiles to the table and warms the heart.

What makes this dish extra special is its rich brioche bread soaked in creamy custard, layered with homemade apple pie filling. It’s an easy way to impress your loved ones while wrapping them in cozy flavors. Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll know why this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, letting you enjoy more time with your family and friends.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and comforting flavors, making it perfect for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it warm on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream for that extra touch of sweetness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, dessert, or even breakfast, this dish fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple yet wholesome, allowing the natural flavors to shine through in every bite. Let’s gather what we need for our delicious Apple Pie Bread Pudding!

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 make it your own with these delicious variations:

• Change Up the Apples: Try using different types of apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for varied sweetness and texture.
• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can give a delightful crunch and added flavor.
• Incorporate Dried Fruits: Raisins or cranberries can add bursts of sweetness throughout the pudding.
• Mix in Spices: Experiment with adding nutmeg or cardamom for an unexpected twist on flavor.

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350F. Grease a 9” round (or 8” or 9” square) baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. This step will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Apples

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and apple pie spice, stirring well to combine. Then add in the brown sugar. This mixture will create a wonderful base for your apple filling. Next, toss in your diced apples along with water. Cover and let them cook until soft—about 10-15 minutes—stirring occasionally. Once done, strain the juices (don’t forget to save them!) because they will be drizzled over your finished dish later.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In another saucepan over medium-low heat, combine all custard ingredients except for the eggs. Whisk until everything is blended and smooth—this will create that rich custardy goodness! Once melted, remove from heat and gradually whisk in eggs one at a time. It’s key not to overcook here; we want our custard creamy!

Step 4: Assemble Layers

Cut your brioche into 1” cubes. Begin layering by placing one-third of your bread cubes at the bottom of your prepared pan; press down gently. Spread one-third of your apple filling on top before adding another layer of bread cubes followed by more filling. Finish off with remaining bread cubes and top with whatever apple filling you have left.

Step 5: Pour Custard Over Bread

Now pour that luscious custard all over your layered bread mixture—make sure every piece is well-soaked! Give it a gentle press down to avoid dry spots. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some turbinado sugar on top for added sweetness.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 350F for about 35-40 minutes on a baking sheet until golden brown on top but still slightly wobbly when shaken—this means it’s perfectly cooked inside! Once done, let it stand for about 10 minutes before removing from the pan.

Step 7: Serve

Serve warm alongside a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle with those saved juices from your apple filling. It’s pure bliss!

Enjoy!

Gather around your table, serve up this delicious Apple Pie Bread Pudding, and enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Making a delicious Apple Pie Bread Pudding is all about the details, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures!

• Use stale bread: Dried-out brioche absorbs the custard better, resulting in a more flavorful and moist pudding. If your bread is fresh, leave it out overnight to dry out.
• Experiment with apples: Different apple varieties bring unique flavors and textures. Mixing sweeter apples like Gala with tart ones like Granny Smith creates a delightful contrast that elevates the dish.
• Don’t skimp on the custard: Make sure to fully soak all the bread pieces in the custard mixture. A well-soaked pudding ensures every bite is creamy and rich.
• Let it rest: Allowing your bread pudding to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely. This makes serving easier and enhances the overall texture.
• Serve warm: Enjoying this dessert warm brings out its comforting qualities, especially when paired with ice cream or whipped topping.

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Presentation adds an extra touch of joy to your dining experience! Here are some ideas on how to serve your Apple Pie Bread Pudding that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Caramel sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over each serving adds sweetness and a delightful sticky texture that complements the apple flavors beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top not only adds crunch but also enriches the flavor profile, giving an extra layer of depth.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream can elevate your dessert, making it feel indulgent and luxurious.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over warm bread pudding creates a heavenly contrast of temperatures.
• Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These soft, fluffy donuts make for a fun accompaniment, bringing a bit of festive flair to your meal.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the bread pudding.
• Coffee or Tea: Offering a warm beverage alongside your dessert encourages relaxation and mingling, making for a cozy end to any meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create an unforgettable dessert experience with your Apple Pie Bread Pudding! Enjoy every sweet moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the bread pudding completely before freezing.
• Cut into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and place the leftover bread pudding in an oven-safe dish.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 30-60 seconds on high.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful dessert!

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

Absolutely! While brioche gives a rich texture, feel free to experiment with challah or even croissants for a unique flavor profile.

How do I make my Apple Pie Bread Pudding more like traditional apple pie?

To enhance the apple pie flavor in your Apple Pie Bread Pudding, consider adding additional spices like nutmeg or using a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth.

Can I prepare the custard ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture a day before and store it in the fridge. Just remember to whisk it again before pouring over the bread.

How do I ensure my Apple Pie Bread Pudding is moist?

Make sure all bread pieces are thoroughly soaked in the custard before baking. If needed, you can also cover it with foil during baking to retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Pie Bread Pudding brings warmth and joy to your table! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a comforting hug in every bite. Enjoy making it and savoring those cozy flavors—there’s something truly special about sharing this delicious treat with friends and family. Happy baking!