This autumnal apple bread pudding is the perfect way to celebrate fall flavors. Featuring chunks of tender apples, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a rich custard-soaked bread base, this dessert is cozy and comforting. Baked to golden perfection and served warm with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s an irresistible treat for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.
Key Information:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Number of servings: 8
- Serving size: 1 slice (about 1 cup)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
Ingredients:
- 6 cups (300g) day-old bread, cubed (brioche, challah, or French bread)
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 350g)
- 500ml (2 cups) whole milk
- 120ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 100g (1/2 cup) brown sugar
- 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 2 tsp (10g) vanilla extract
- 1 tsp (5g) ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp (1g) ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp (1g) salt
- 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 60g (1/2 cup) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Caramel sauce or powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
Method of Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the bread: Place the cubed bread and chopped apples in the greased baking dish, spreading them out evenly. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the bread and apples.
- Make the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked in the custard. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb.
- Drizzle with butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread pudding for added richness.
- Bake: Bake the bread pudding in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set in the center. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out clean.
- Serve: Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with warm caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Culinary Success:
- Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard more effectively without becoming too soggy.
- Choose the right apples: For the best texture and flavor, use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji that will hold up during baking.
- Let it soak: Give the bread time to soak in the custard for at least 10 minutes before baking to ensure it’s fully absorbed.
- Add texture: For a little crunch, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.
- Reheat leftovers: Bread pudding can be reheated in the oven or microwave. Just add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make bread pudding ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the bread pudding and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.
- What kind of bread works best for this recipe? Brioche, challah, or French bread work wonderfully due to their soft, absorbent texture. Day-old bread is ideal, but if your bread is fresh, lightly toast it before using.
- Can I use dairy-free milk? Absolutely! You can substitute the milk and heavy cream with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free version.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
- Can I freeze bread pudding? Yes, bread pudding freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving.
This autumnal apple bread pudding is the perfect way to enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of the season. With its combination of tender apples, rich custard-soaked bread, and a hint of cinnamon, every bite feels like a cozy fall hug. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on a quiet evening with a cup of coffee, this dessert will surely become a favorite during the cooler months.