Apple Pie Bread Pudding

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples and custard-soaked bread. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish serves as an inviting centerpiece. It offers a unique twist on traditional bread pudding, making it both familiar and exciting at the same time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The combination of brioche bread, creamy custard, and spiced apples creates a warm and satisfying dish.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and basic ingredients, this dessert is accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with vanilla ice cream or serve it cold for a different experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, a holiday meal, or just because, this dessert fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare ahead of time and bake when you’re ready to serve, making entertaining easier.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious Apple Pie Bread Pudding recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen space.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (9” round or 8”/9” square)
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Cooking spray
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: Essential for creating the perfect shape and texture of your bread pudding.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for melting butter and cooking the apple filling evenly without burning.
• Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly, especially when preparing the custard.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

For this Apple Pie Bread Pudding, you will need the following ingredients:

• 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

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with cooking spray. Line the bottom and sides with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter.
2. Add the flour and apple pie spice, stirring until well mixed.
3. Incorporate the brown sugar, mixing until fully combined.
4. Add in the diced apples and water. Stir well, then cover.
5. Cook until the apples soften (about 10–15 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Strain Juices

Remove from heat; strain the juices from the apple mixture into a bowl to save for topping later.

Step 4: Make the Custard

In another medium saucepan over medium-low heat:
1. Combine all custard ingredients except for the eggs (milk, heavy cream, remaining melted butter, remaining sugars, pinch of salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and optional apple pie spice).
2. Whisk until everything is combined and melted.
3. Remove from heat; add eggs one at a time while whisking after each addition.

Step 5: Assemble

Cut your dried-out bread into cubes:
1. Place one-third of the cubes in your prepared pan. Press down gently.
2. Spread one-third of the apple filling over the bread.
3. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with apple filling on top.

Step 6: Pour Custard Over Bread

Pour custard mixture evenly over layered bread cubes. Press down gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.

Step 7: Bake

Sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired:
1. Bake at 350°F (175°C) on a baking sheet for about 35–40 minutes.
2. Check that top is golden but slightly wobbly when shaken.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Remove from oven; let stand for about ten minutes before removing from pan. Serve warm topped with vanilla ice cream and reserved apple juices.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Apple Pie Bread Pudding!

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your experience.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich and smooth contrast to the warm bread pudding, making each bite even more indulgent.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• Warm caramel sauce drizzled over the top enhances the sweetness and adds a luxurious touch, perfect for those who love decadent desserts.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream provides a fluffy texture that balances the richness of the bread pudding. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh apple slices or berries on the side add a refreshing element, complementing the warm spices in the pudding while boosting presentation.

Enjoy with Hot Coffee or Tea

• A cup of hot coffee or tea pairs beautifully with this dessert, offering warmth and comfort that enhances the cozy flavors of apple pie bread pudding.

How to Perfect Apple Pie Bread Pudding

To ensure your Apple Pie Bread Pudding turns out delicious every time, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Use stale bread: Day-old brioche works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming overly soggy.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your apple pie filling before adding it to the bread pudding; you can modify the sugar levels based on your preference.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your pudding. It should be slightly jiggly in the center when done to ensure it’s moist and creamy.
• Add nuts: Incorporating chopped walnuts or pecans into your layers adds crunch and depth of flavor to each bite.
• Cover while baking: If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing it to cook through.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Pie Bread Pudding

While Apple Pie Bread Pudding is satisfying on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy yogurt provides a tangy contrast and balances out the sweetness of the pudding.
2. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer crunch and flavor, making them an ideal snack alongside your dessert.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: These crispy chips bring an extra crunch and sweet note that works beautifully with apple flavors.
4. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and lightens up the meal.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie, offers a savory counterpoint to sweet desserts.
6. Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce can add another layer of indulgence when served alongside apple pie bread pudding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect your final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the apples: Cooking the apples too long can lead to mushy filling. Aim for them to be soft but still holding their shape.
• Using fresh bread: Fresh brioche can become soggy. Use dried-out or stale bread for the best texture in your pudding.
• Skipping the custard whisking: Not whisking the eggs and other custard ingredients well can result in uneven cooking. Ensure everything is well mixed before adding it to the bread.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing the baked pudding to rest helps set the custard. Skipping this step may cause it to fall apart when serving.
• Neglecting toppings: A sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. Don’t skip this easy enhancement!
• Not adjusting sweetness: Depending on the apples used, you might need more or less sugar. Taste your apple filling and adjust accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pudding to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Apple Pie Bread Pudding

• Freeze in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Apple Pie Bread Pudding

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until heated.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Apple Pie Bread Pudding:

What type of bread is best for Apple Pie Bread Pudding?

Brioche is ideal due to its richness and ability to soak up custard without falling apart.

Can I use different fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or berries for a unique twist.

How do I make my Apple Pie Bread Pudding extra rich?

For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half instead of milk or adding extra butter to the custard mixture.

Can I prepare Apple Pie Bread Pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it!

Is there a gluten-free alternative for this recipe?

Yes! Use gluten-free bread as a substitute for brioche while keeping all other ingredients the same.

Final Thoughts

Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a delightful combination of comforting flavors that satisfies any sweet tooth. Its versatility allows you to customize with various fruits or spices according to your preferences. Whether enjoyed warm with ice cream or served as a brunch treat, this dessert is sure to impress your family and friends!