Apple Pie Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in warmth like a cozy blanket, then this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is just what you need. Imagine thick slices of brioche bread soaked in creamy custard, layered with homemade apple pie filling, and baked to golden perfection. This delightful twist on traditional bread pudding brings together the best flavors of fall in one comforting dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe will surely create moments of joy around your table.

What makes this Apple Pie Bread Pudding so special is its versatility and ease. You can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the heartiness of bread pudding with the sweet nostalgia of apple pie. Trust me; this dessert is bound to become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this delicious treat without stress.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the gooey texture and sweet apple flavor—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving for effortless entertaining.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Enjoy the rich combination of brioche and apples that warms your heart and home.
• Deliciously Versatile: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or cold with whipped cream; either way, it’s a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful Apple Pie Bread Pudding! Each component plays an important role in creating that irresistible flavor and texture.

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 Mixture

• 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 temperature

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor!
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out apples for pears or berries—each will bring its own unique twist.
• Try Different Breads: While brioche is lovely, challah or even day-old croissants would work well too.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for extra warmth.

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your bread pudding bakes evenly. Grease a baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Add flour and apple pie spice, stirring until smooth. Then mix in brown sugar and diced apples along with water. Cover this mixture as it cooks down into a soft filling over about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until those apples reach tender perfection.

Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture

Once your apples are soft, remove them from heat and strain any excess juices—save these for later! In another saucepan over medium-low heat, combine milk, heavy cream, butter, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and optional spices. Whisk until combined and melted. Remove from heat before adding eggs one at a time while whisking vigorously; this keeps your custard smooth!

Step 4: Assemble the Bread Pudding

Cut your brioche into 1-inch cubes—this helps them soak up all that delicious custard! Start layering by placing one-third of the bread cubes into the bottom of your prepared pan. Press down gently to compress them slightly. Spread half of your apple filling over this layer followed by another third of bread cubes. Repeat once more until you finish with remaining bread cubes topped by all leftover apple filling.

Step 5: Pour on the Custard

Now pour that gorgeous custard mixture all over your layered creation! Ensure every piece of bread is soaked; gently press down if needed. If desired, sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for added sweetness and crunch.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Carefully place your pan on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for about 35-40 minutes until golden brown on top yet still slightly wobbly when shaken—this means it will set perfectly as it cools!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

After letting it cool for about 10 minutes out of the oven, serve warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with reserved apple juices—or enjoy on its own! No matter how you serve it up, I know you’ll love every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Making the perfect Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dessert to a whole new level!

• Use stale bread: Stale or dried-out brioche absorbs the custard better, resulting in a creamier texture. If your bread is fresh, simply leave it out overnight to dry.

• Mix apple varieties: Combining different types of apples, like sweet Gala and tart Granny Smith, adds depth to the flavor. This contrast enhances the overall taste of your pudding.

• Don’t rush the custard: Take your time when making the custard base. Ensuring that all ingredients are well combined and warmed through leads to a smoother texture that envelops each bite of bread.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the finished bread pudding to sit for at least 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely. This waiting period makes cutting and serving much easier!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more spices like nutmeg or extra cinnamon to customize your flavor profile. A little experimentation can lead to a personalized twist on this classic dessert!

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Serving your Apple Pie Bread Pudding is just as fun as making it! The right presentation can turn this comforting dessert into a standout dish for any gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade or store-bought whipped cream adds an airy sweetness that complements the richness of the pudding.
• Caramel drizzle: A warm caramel sauce drizzled over the top brings an indulgent touch that pairs beautifully with the apple flavors.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some toasted walnuts or pecans on top provides a crunchy contrast that enhances both texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the bread pudding and adds color to your plate.
• Vanilla bean ice cream: The classic pairing of vanilla bean ice cream not only adds creaminess but also enhances the warmth of the dish, making every bite heavenly.
• Cinnamon-spiced apples: Sautéed apples with cinnamon make an excellent side dish that echoes the flavors in your bread pudding while adding a touch of sophistication.
• Coffee or chai tea: Serving your bread pudding alongside a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying this comfort dessert.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Apple Pie Bread Pudding experience! Whether sharing with friends or savoring solo, it’s sure to bring warmth and joy to every occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store and enjoy your delicious creation later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, heat individual servings in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delightful recipe.

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

Absolutely! While brioche adds richness, you can experiment with challah, croissants, or even classic white bread for a different texture and flavor.

How do I make my Apple Pie Bread Pudding more custardy?

To enhance the custard texture, consider increasing the amount of milk or cream slightly. Just ensure that you maintain a good balance so that it doesn’t become too soggy.

Can I prepare Apple Pie Bread Pudding without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) or use a commercial egg replacer to achieve a similar custard-like consistency.

What toppings pair well with Apple Pie Bread Pudding?

Apart from vanilla ice cream, consider serving it with whipped coconut cream, caramel sauce, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is truly something special—a warm and comforting dessert that embraces the cozy flavors of fall. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your creations; I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Happy baking!