Apple Pie Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in a warm hug, this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is just the thing! Imagine tender brioche bread soaking up a creamy custard, mingled with sweet and spiced apple pie filling. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this comforting treat will surely impress everyone around the table.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines two classics into one delightful dish. The cozy aroma of baked apples and cinnamon fills the kitchen, making it an irresistible addition to any occasion. Plus, it’s so simple to make—you’ll want to whip it up again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: Enjoy the warmth of cinnamon and apples, reminiscent of your favorite fall treats.
• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, you can have this delicious dessert ready without stress.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves bread pudding! It’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it in advance for effortless entertaining; just bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously versatile: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it on its own—either way, it’s amazing!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create this delightful Apple Pie Bread Pudding. Gather them up, and let’s get started!

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 Pie 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Change the bread: Swap brioche for challah or even croissants for a different flavor twist.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Try different fruits: Use pears or berries if you’re feeling adventurous; they bring their own unique sweetness!
• Make it chocolatey: Stir in some chocolate chips into the custard for an indulgent touch.

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350F. Greasing your baking pan is essential as it prevents sticking. Lining it with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze! Placing it on a baking sheet catches any drips while baking.

Step 2: Cook the Apples

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Adding flour and apple pie spice creates a lovely base for your filling. Stirring in brown sugar brings out the natural sweetness of the apples. Cook until they’re soft—this step ensures that every bite is flavorful!

Step 3: Strain Juices

Once your apples are soft, remove them from heat and strain out any excess juices. Don’t toss those juices; save them to drizzle over your finished bread pudding later!

Step 4: Make the Custard Mixture

In another saucepan over medium-low heat, combine all custard ingredients except for eggs. Whisk until smooth and melted—this helps incorporate flavors evenly. When adding eggs one at a time, whisking between each addition keeps everything creamy!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bread Pudding

Cut your dried-out brioche into cubes. Layer them carefully in your prepared pan with apple pie filling in between each layer. Pressing down ensures all flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Soak with Custard

Pour that luscious custard over your layered bread cubes. Make sure every piece is soaked through—this is where all that creamy goodness comes from! A sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top adds a lovely crunch when baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350F for about 35-40 minutes until golden brown on top but still slightly wobbly in the center. Letting it rest for ten minutes after baking allows flavors to settle and makes slicing easier.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside those reserved apple juices drizzled on top. Each spoonful will remind you why this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is such an incredible dessert! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Making the perfect Apple Pie Bread Pudding is all about the details! Here are some tips to help you achieve dessert perfection.

• Use stale bread: Using dried-out brioche bread allows it to absorb more of the custard without becoming mushy, resulting in a delightful texture.

• Customize your apples: Mixing different apple varieties, like sweet Gala and tart Granny Smith, adds depth of flavor and balances sweetness with acidity.

• Let it rest: Allowing the pudding to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to slice and serve beautifully.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon or apple pie spice levels according to your taste. A pinch more can enhance that cozy, warm flavor!

• Serve warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm straight out of the oven. Serve it immediately for that comforting experience that melts in your mouth!

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Presenting your Apple Pie Bread Pudding can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your serving style.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the pudding.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top creates a beautiful presentation and enhances sweetness.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the soft pudding.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing, vanilla ice cream brings a creamy element that balances the warmth of the pudding beautifully.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can provide a bright contrast and lighten up your dessert plate.
• Cinnamon sugar donuts: These sweet treats add an extra layer of indulgence and keep with the cozy, fall-inspired theme of apple pie.
• Hot cocoa or spiced cider: Pairing this dessert with warm beverages like hot cocoa or spiced cider makes for a comforting experience on chilly evenings.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to share this delightful dessert with friends and family. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, and it stores wonderfully, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors over several days.

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

• To freeze, let the bread pudding cool completely first.
• Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label the bags with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for about 30-60 seconds until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

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

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

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

To enhance the flavor of your Apple Pie Bread Pudding, consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch. A drizzle of caramel sauce on top before serving can also elevate this dessert beautifully!

What are some serving suggestions for Apple Pie Bread Pudding?

Serving this Apple Pie Bread Pudding warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is delightful! You might also add whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch.

Can I use store-bought apple pie filling instead of making my own?

Yes, using store-bought apple pie filling is a convenient option if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s free from any unwanted ingredients!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug in food form that brings everyone together. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or simply treating yourself on a chilly day. Happy baking, and may every bite bring you joy!