This Caramel Apple Bread Pudding is like a warm hug in dessert form! It combines soft bread, sweet apples, and rich caramel to create a cozy treat that’s perfect for chilly days.
I’ve learned that this dish is super easy to whip up. Just mix everything together, bake, and enjoy! Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’d want extra caramel on top—who wouldn’t? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Day-old bread is essential for holding up the custard without becoming mushy. French bread or challah are great choices, but you can use brioche or even cornbread if that’s what you have.
Apples: Granny Smith apples add tartness, while Fuji apples bring sweetness. Feel free to mix varieties for more flavor, or try pears for a twist!
Eggs: Four large eggs help bind the pudding together. If you want to make it egg-free, you could use a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for each egg.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream create a rich texture. For lighter options, use almond milk or oat milk, although it may change the flavor a bit.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices give warmth and depth. If you don’t have nutmeg, try using allspice or even pumpkin pie spice.
How Do I Ensure the Bread Absorbs the Custard Properly?
Letting the bread soak is key to a creamy pudding! After pouring the custard mix over the bread and apples, press down on the bread gently with a spatula. This helps the custard soak in evenly.
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before baking. This waiting time allows the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the moisture.
- Check if the pudding is set by gently shaking the dish. If it wobbles slightly, it’s done!
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll create a deliciously comforting dessert that everyone will enjoy. Happy baking!
How to Make Caramel Apple Bread Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding:
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French bread or challah)
- 3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced; Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), plus extra for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 60 minutes to bake. Be sure to allow some time for cooling before you serve it warm. It’s a perfect treat for gatherings or cozy evenings in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to make cleanup easy later.
2. Assemble the Base:
In the prepared baking dish, place the cubed bread evenly across the bottom. Next, scatter the diced apples over the bread. They’ll bring a delicious sweetness that pairs perfectly with the caramel!
3. Mix the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Soak the Bread:
Pour the egg mixture over the bread and apples, making sure to cover everything well. Gently press down the bread with a spatula to help it soak up the custard. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes so the bread can absorb all that yummy goodness.
5. Add Topping:
If you’re using nuts, mix the chopped pecans or walnuts with the melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the pudding.
6. Bake It:
Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the custard is set—it should not jiggle too much when you shake it gently.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the pudding cool slightly. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle caramel sauce generously over each portion. Serve it warm, and consider adding whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Enjoy this cozy, luscious Caramel Apple Bread Pudding, a perfect blend of sweet apples and warm spices topped with rich caramel! 🍏✨
Can I Use Fresh Bread Instead of Day-Old Bread?
It’s best to use day-old bread for this recipe, as it absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out by baking it in a low oven (around 200°F) for about 10-15 minutes before using it.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between.
Can I Use Another Type of Fruit?
Absolutely! While apples are classic, you can substitute them with pears, peaches, or berries for a different flavor. Just make sure the fruit you choose complements the spices in the recipe.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can use gluten-free bread instead of regular bread. Just ensure the other ingredients (like the caramel sauce) are also gluten-free. Follow the same steps for preparation and baking, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free caramel apple bread pudding!