why make this recipe

Apple Pie Bread Pudding is a delicious twist on two classic desserts. It combines the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie with the soft, custardy goodness of bread pudding. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover brioche or rolls, and it’s an easy way to impress friends and family. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, everyone will love the combination of sweet apples and rich custard. Plus, it’s great with a scoop of ice cream on top!

how to make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Ingredients

12 thick-cut slices of brioche bread or 12 brioche rolls, preferably dried out overnight
Optional: turbinado sugar, for topping
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
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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9” round (or 8” or 9” square) baking pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper that covers the bottom and sides. Set it on a baking sheet.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the flour and apple pie spice, stirring well. Then add the brown sugar and mix.
Add the diced apples and water, stir well, and cover. Cook over medium heat until the apples are soft, stirring occasionally (about 10-15 minutes).
Remove from heat and strain the juices, saving them for later.
In another saucepan over medium-low heat, combine all custard ingredients except for the eggs. Whisk to combine until the butter melts. Remove from heat and add the eggs one at a time, whisking between each addition. Do not cook any longer; the custard will thicken in the oven.
Cut the bread into 1” cubes.
Place 1/3 of the bread cubes in the bottom of the prepared pan. Press down to compress.
Spread 1/3 of the apple pie filling over the bread cubes. Repeat this layer with another 1/3 of bread cubes and more apple filling. Finish with the last 1/3 of bread cubes and the rest of the apple filling.
Pour the custard over the bread, making sure all pieces are soaked. Gently press down to avoid dry spots. Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top if desired.
Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes on a baking sheet until the top is golden and set but still a bit wobbly. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and the saved juices from the apple filling. Enjoy!

how to serve Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Apple Pie Bread Pudding is best served warm. You can offer it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top to enhance its delicious flavors. Drizzling some of the reserved apple juices over the top adds an extra touch.

how to store Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Once it has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven for a few minutes before enjoying.

tips to make Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Use day-old brioche for the best texture; it absorbs the custard better.
Feel free to mix different types of apples for a variety of flavors.
If you want more spices, add extra cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture.

variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or mix in dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for extra texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread?
Yes! You can use challah, white bread, or any bread you have on hand. Just make sure it’s a bit stale for better absorption.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes, you can prep everything the night before and bake it the next day. Just keep the assembled bread pudding covered in the fridge overnight.
How do I know when it’s done?
The bread pudding is done when the top is golden brown and the center is slightly wobbly. It will continue to set as it cools.

With this simple recipe, you’ll have a comforting dessert that everyone will love!

Apple Pie Bread Pudding