Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Name: Apple Pie Bread Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 cups day-old bread, cubed; 2 cups apples, peeled and diced; 1 cup milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 large eggs; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Transform leftover bread into a comforting dessert with this delicious Apple Pie Bread Pudding recipe. Combining the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery bread, this dish brings together the classic taste of apple pie in a cozy pudding form. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to impress your friends and family.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-13T13:38:33.657Z

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a delightful way to use up old bread, creating a dish that is as comforting as it is delicious. The combination of warm spices and tender apples transforms a simple dessert into a true crowd-pleaser.

The Comfort of Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is often considered a classic comfort food, and this Apple Pie Bread Pudding elevates it to new heights. Its creamy texture combined with the warm spices and sweet apples brings back memories of enjoyed family gatherings and holidays. The delightful mix of soft bread and tender fruit creates a satisfying dish that pleases palates of all ages. It’s also an excellent way to utilize leftover bread, preventing waste and giving you a reason to indulge in a delightful dessert.

As winter approaches, the cozy appeal of this dessert becomes even more pronounced. Picture a cold evening where the aroma of cinnamon and baked apple wafts through your home, inviting family and friends to gather around the table. This recipe not only warms your belly but also nurtures the soul, creating opportunities for connection over a shared love of food and fond memories.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the beauties of this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, celebrating a birthday, or simply looking for a comforting dessert after a weekday meal, this recipe fits the bill. It can be made ahead of time and simply baked when you’re ready to serve, freeing up precious time for you to enjoy with your guests.

Moreover, this dish can adapt to various dietary preferences. For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal and the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, to add even more character to the pudding. Each variation offers a unique twist while keeping the essence of the classic dessert intact.

Serving Suggestions

For an irresistible treat, serve your Apple Pie Bread Pudding warm, drizzled with a generous helping of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the dish beautifully, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures that enhances the overall experience. You may wish to garnish with cinnamon or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.

Consider pairing this dessert with a spiced tea or hot cider for a fully themed autumn or winter evening. The combination of comforting flavors and warm beverages will create a cozy atmosphere, inviting guests to linger and savor the moment. This recipe is not just a dish, but a celebration of seasonal flavors and togetherness.

Ingredients

For the Pudding

6 cups day-old bread, cubed
2 cups apples, peeled and diced
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Mix well before pouring into the baking dish.

Steps

Prepare the Bread and Apples

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread and diced apples.

Make the Custard

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the custard mixture over the bread and apples, ensuring everything is well soaked. Let it sit for 10 minutes.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the pudding.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 45 minutes or until set and golden brown.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Serve with your favorite vanilla ice cream!

Storage Tips

One of the advantages of this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is its ability to be stored and enjoyed later. After baking, allow the pudding to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the pudding. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container. This allows you to have a homemade dessert readily available for unexpected guests or those sweet cravings that hit at the most inconvenient times.

Customizing Your Recipe

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding encourages creativity—feel free to customize it to your liking. For a twist, add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for additional sweetness and texture. You might also experiment with different spice combinations, such as ginger or allspice, to enhance the warm flavors of the dish.

Nuts like walnuts or pecans can be incorporated for added crunch and richness. If you prefer a caramel flavor, consider mixing in a few spoonfuls of caramel sauce into the custard before pouring it over the bread and apples. These variations allow you to tailor the dish to suit seasonal ingredients or personal preferences, making it uniquely yours.

Perfect Pairings

For an impressive dessert offering, consider accompanying your Apple Pie Bread Pudding with a side of fresh fruit or a fruit compote. Those bright flavors will balance the richness of the pudding, making for a well-rounded dessert experience. Freshly sliced apples or berries can provide a delightful contrast, adding a burst of freshness.

Additionally, topping the pudding with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon can enhance its visual appeal and contribute to the overall flavor profile. A simple yet elegant presentation can elevate your dinner table, impressing friends and family and making the occasion feel even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought bread?

Yes, store-bought bread works well, especially brioche or challah.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.