Apple Pie Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in a cozy hug, look no further than this Apple Pie Bread Pudding. It’s the perfect blend of warm spices and sweet apples, all nestled within creamy custard-soaked brioche bread. This dish is not just for special occasions; it’s great for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want something that feels both comforting and indulgent. Every bite reminds me of home, and I can’t wait to share this beloved recipe with you!

The beauty of Apple Pie Bread Pudding lies in its simplicity and heartwarming flavors. It’s a delightful twist on classic bread pudding that everyone will adore. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or serving guests at your next brunch, this dessert will surely leave them asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves the combination of apple pie flavors with soft, custardy bread—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble it ahead of time, letting the flavors meld before baking—ideal for busy days!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The rich brioche and homemade apple pie filling create a dessert bursting with warmth and sweetness.
• Perfect with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top takes this comforting dessert to the next level!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a mouthwatering dessert. Gather these items to make your own delicious Apple Pie Bread Pudding:

• 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

One of the best things about Apple Pie Bread Pudding is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

• Mix Different Fruits: Swap some apples for other fruits like pears or berries for a fun twist.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Try Different Breads: Use challah or even leftover bagels if you want to experiment with different textures.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth in the flavor profile.

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Greasing your baking pan is essential so that your bread pudding comes out easily after baking. Line it with parchment paper too; this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in flour and apple pie spice, mixing well until combined. Then sprinkle in brown sugar—this creates that sweet caramelized goodness we all love! Next, toss in your diced apples along with water. Stir it all together, cover the pan, and cook until those apples are soft (about 10–15 minutes). This step infuses your filling with so much flavor!

Step 3: Prepare the Custard

Once your apples are ready, combine all custard ingredients (except the eggs) in another saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk gently until everything is melted together—this ensures your custard will be smooth and creamy. It’s important not to cook too long after adding eggs; they will thicken as they bake in the oven.

Step 4: Assemble the Bread Pudding

Cut your brioche into cubes (about an inch). Start layering by placing one-third of these cubes at the bottom of your prepared pan. Press down gently so they hold their shape. Spread one-third of your apple filling over this layer, then repeat two more times until you have three layers total—ending with apple filling on top.

Step 5: Pour Over Custard

Pour that luscious custard mixture all over the assembled layers! Make sure every piece is soaked through—this is what makes it wonderfully custardy! If you like a crunchy top, sprinkle some turbinado sugar before popping it in the oven.

Step 6: Bake & Serve

Bake at 350°F for about 35–40 minutes until golden on top but still slightly wobbly when shaken (that means it’s perfectly cooked!). Let it stand for about ten minutes before removing from the pan—it will be tempting to dive right in! Serve warm with vanilla ice cream on top and drizzle some reserved juices from your apple filling over each serving.

Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Creating the perfect Apple Pie Bread Pudding can be so rewarding, and these tips will help ensure your dessert turns out just right!

• Use day-old bread: Stale brioche absorbs the custard better, resulting in a creamier texture. If you don’t have day-old bread, lightly toast fresh brioche cubes to dry them out a bit.

• Don’t rush the custard: Whisking the eggs into the warm milk mixture off the heat allows for a smooth custard without scrambling the eggs. This step is crucial for achieving that silky texture.

• Layer it up: Building layers of bread and apple pie filling not only enhances flavor but also creates delightful pockets of gooey goodness throughout. Make sure to press down between layers to compact them.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your pudding to sit for at least 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve while still being warm.

• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your personal touch with spices or nuts! A sprinkle of nutmeg or some chopped pecans can elevate the flavors even further and make this dish uniquely yours.

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Serving your Apple Pie Bread Pudding can be as delightful as making it! Here are some fun and creative ideas to present this comforting dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an airy lightness that complements the richness of the pudding.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each serving enhances the sweetness and provides a lovely contrast to the apples.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top add a nice crunch and additional flavor layers.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, rich bread pudding.
• Cinnamon sugar doughnuts: These fluffy treats are perfect for brunch gatherings, offering a sweet pairing with your dessert.
• Vanilla ice cream: Classic vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm bread pudding, creating a delightful creamy experience.
• Coffee or tea: A cup of steaming coffee or herbal tea balances out the sweetness and adds an extra comforting element to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Apple Pie Bread Pudding will surely impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it’s great for leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Apple Pie Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• When ready to enjoy, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the bread pudding cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350F for about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Apple Pie Bread Pudding without eggs?

Yes, if you’re looking for an egg-free option, you can substitute the eggs with a mixture of silken tofu blended until smooth (about 1/4 cup per egg) or use a commercial egg replacer.

How do I make Apple Pie Bread Pudding gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and ensure that all other ingredients like flour and spices are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare Apple Pie Bread Pudding the night before?

Absolutely! Prepare it as instructed, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. Just bake it straight from the fridge the next day—no need to adjust baking time!

What type of apples work best for Apple Pie Bread Pudding?

A mix of sweet and tart apples works wonderfully! Gala and Granny Smith are great choices as they provide a balance of flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm and cozy Apple Pie Bread Pudding as much as I do! It’s truly a special dessert that combines comforting flavors with a delightful twist on classic bread pudding. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it alone with a scoop of ice cream, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table. Happy baking!