Apple Pie Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is just the thing! Imagine biting into rich, buttery brioche bread soaked in a creamy custard, all layered with luscious apple pie filling. It’s like bringing the best parts of fall right to your table, no matter what time of year it is. This recipe has become one of my favorites for family gatherings and cozy weeknights alike—everyone loves it!

What makes this dessert truly special is how easy it is to prepare. You can make it ahead of time, letting the flavors meld together beautifully, and then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to impress your guests. Trust me, nothing beats the smell of freshly baked Apple Pie Bread Pudding wafting through your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone in the family will love this comforting treat; it’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and bake when you’re ready for dessert.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brioche and apple pie filling creates a dreamy flavor profile that brings smiles all around.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it on its own—it’s delightful either way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Gather these items to create a delicious Apple Pie Bread Pudding that everyone will adore!

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 mix things up according to your taste preferences or what you have available.

• Mix Different Breads: Use challah or even leftover bagels instead of brioche for a unique twist.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• Incorporate Dried Fruits: Try adding raisins or cranberries along with the apple filling for extra sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for an exciting flavor boost.

How to Make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Greasing your baking pan ensures that the pudding comes out easily after baking. Lining it with parchment paper adds another layer of protection against sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and apple pie spice while stirring vigorously until smooth. Then add brown sugar, diced apples, and water before covering. Let them cook until soft—this step brings out all those lovely flavors we crave in apple pie!

Step 3: Strain Your Apples

Once the apples are tender (about 10-15 minutes), remove them from heat and strain off any excess juices. Don’t toss those juices! You’ll use them to drizzle over your finished pudding later.

Step 4: Make the Custard

In another saucepan over medium-low heat, combine milk, heavy cream, and butter until melted. Then whisk in sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and optional spices before stirring in eggs one at a time. This will create a creamy custard that binds everything together beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pudding

Cut your brioche into cubes, starting with about one-third at the bottom of your prepared pan. Press down gently before layering on one-third of your apple filling. Repeat this process twice more until you have three layers each of bread cubes and apple filling.

Step 6: Pour Over Custard

Pour that luscious custard over all layers making sure every corner is soaked through! Gently press down to eliminate any dry spots—every bite should be rich and moist.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top if you want an extra sweet crunch. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes until golden brown but still slightly wobbly when shaken—a sign that it’s perfectly done!

Step 8: Let It Cool

After removing from the oven, let it stand for about ten minutes. This lets everything firm up nicely so you can slice perfect pieces.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with those reserved juices from earlier. Take a moment to savor each bite—this is comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Making Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a delightful experience, and with just a few helpful tips, you can take your dessert to the next level!

• Use stale bread: Opting for slightly dried out brioche bread helps it absorb the custard without becoming overly soggy, ensuring a perfect texture.
• Mix up your apples: Combining different apple varieties, like sweet Gala and tart Granny Smith, creates a more complex flavor profile that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Let it rest: Allowing the assembled bread pudding to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving allows the custard to fully soak into the bread, resulting in a creamier texture.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add additional spices such as nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon and apple pie spice for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
• Top it off: A sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top not only adds a delightful crunch but also gives your bread pudding an attractive golden finish.

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Apple Pie Bread Pudding is as beautiful as it is delicious! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dessert to impress your guests or treat your family.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the richness of the pudding.
• Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the soft bread pudding.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon right before serving gives an aromatic hint that enhances its cozy vibe.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is the classic pairing; its coldness contrasts perfectly with the warm bread pudding.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each serving adds an indulgent sweetness that elevates every bite.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the dessert while adding vibrant colors to your plate. Try mixing berries with citrus fruits!
• Coffee or Tea: Serve with a cup of brewed coffee or herbal tea for a comforting ending to any meal, enhancing the flavors of this delightful dessert.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Pie Bread Pudding will surely be a hit at any gathering, providing warmth and comfort in every slice! Enjoy your baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it later, making it a great addition to your dessert rotation.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the bread pudding cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for added protection.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, slice it before freezing for easy serving!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power until heated, checking every 30 seconds.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful dessert? Here are some common queries!

Can I make Apple Pie Bread Pudding without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with a mixture of unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer. This will help maintain the custard-like texture.

How do I store leftover Apple Pie Bread Pudding?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy another slice!

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While brioche gives a rich flavor, you can use challah or even stale baguette for a different texture and taste.

What toppings go well with Apple Pie Bread Pudding?

Besides vanilla ice cream, you can serve it with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy crafting this warm and comforting Apple Pie Bread Pudding as much as I do! It’s a special recipe that brings together the beloved flavors of apple pie with the soft, custardy goodness of bread pudding. Perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home, it’s sure to leave everyone smiling. Happy baking!