Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding

Ever crave a warm, comforting dessert that fills your home with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and apples? This Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding is your answer! It’s a delightful blend of soft, custard-soaked bread, sweet, tender apples, and fragrant spices. Perfect for a chilly evening treat or a special breakfast indulgence, this bread pudding recipe is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Inspired by classic comfort food, this recipe brings the warmth and simplicity of home-baked goodness right to your table. Let’s dive into the magic of this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

This Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

• Effortless Elegance: It’s simple to prepare, yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
• Comfort Food Reinvented: A classic bread pudding gets a delicious upgrade with the addition of sweet apples and warm cinnamon.
• Budget-Friendly Bliss: Uses ingredients you likely already have on hand, making it a cost-effective treat.
• Customizable Delight: Easily adapt the recipe to your liking with different types of bread or apples.
• Aromatic Appeal: The cinnamon and apple scent will fill your kitchen with a cozy, inviting fragrance.
• Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a special brunch.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for a convenient dessert anytime you crave it.
• Irresistible Texture: The combination of soft bread, tender apples, and creamy custard is simply heavenly.

Ingredients Needed for Apple Bread Pudding Perfection

Here’s everything you need to create this amazing Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding. Let’s gather the goods for a bread pudding that’s out of this world!

For the bread pudding:

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (about 1 loaf) – (Approximately 300g). Use challah, brioche, or even sturdy white bread. For best results, let your bread sit out uncovered overnight to dry out slightly.
• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced – (Approximately 300g). Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well. Choose apples that hold their shape during baking.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – (100g). Adds sweetness to the custard base.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar – (50g). Provides a deeper, caramel-like flavor. Dark or light brown sugar will both work.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon – (5g). The star spice that brings warmth and comfort. For an extra punch, use Ceylon cinnamon.
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg – (1g). A subtle spice that complements the cinnamon beautifully. Freshly grated nutmeg will add a richer aroma.
• 2 cups milk – (480ml). Whole milk creates a richer custard, but 2% or even almond milk can be substituted.
• 3 large eggs – (Approximately 150g). Bind the custard and add richness. Use room temperature eggs for best results.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – (5ml). Enhances the sweetness and overall flavor. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – (56g). Adds richness and helps create a golden-brown crust.

For the glaze (optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar – (60g). Creates a smooth and sweet glaze.
• 1-2 tbsp milk – (15-30ml). Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract – (1ml). Enhances the flavor of the glaze.

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Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes baking this Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential:

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ensures even baking and a beautiful presentation. A ceramic or glass dish is ideal.
• Large Mixing Bowl: To combine the bread and apples.
• Whisk: For smoothly blending the custard ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to success.
• Sharp Knife: For dicing the apples.
• Vegetable Peeler: For peeling the apples, a quality vegetable peeler will expedite the process.

Optional:

• Hand Mixer: Can be used to ensure the custard ingredients are well combined, but a whisk works just fine!
• Rubber Spatula: For gently stirring the mixture and scraping the bowl.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the bread pudding after baking.

Alternatives:

• Don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish? Use two 8×8 inch dishes instead.

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick rundown of everything you need to know before you get started:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5-10 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Difficulty: Easy

Scale up or down according to the number of people you are planning to serve!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Snickerdoodle Pumpkin Bread – A delightful autumn treat!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent the bread pudding from sticking and make it easier to serve.

Step 2: Combine Bread and Apples

In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and diced apples. Toss gently to mix. This ensures the apples are evenly distributed throughout the bread pudding.

Step 3: Whisk the Custard Base

In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well combined. This creates the creamy custard that binds the bread pudding together.

Step 4: Soak the Bread

Pour the wet mixture over the bread and apples. Stir gently to ensure all the bread is coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. This step is crucial for creating a moist and custardy bread pudding.

Step 5: Bake the Bread Pudding

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the glaze (if using) by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Once the bread pudding is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the top if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

CHECK OUT: Apple Pie Crisp – Another delicious apple dessert!

Tips for Success

Here are some tips to ensure your Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Day-Old Bread: This is crucial for preventing a soggy bread pudding. Day-old bread absorbs the custard better.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry, tough bread pudding. Bake until the center is just set.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the custard base before adding it to the bread. Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will have a more intense flavor and aroma.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the bread pudding to rest for a few minutes after baking will allow the custard to set properly.

Bonus Hack: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a handful of chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) over the bread pudding before baking.

Variations & Substitutions

Make this Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding your own with these fun variations and substitutions:

• Different Fruits: Substitute pears, peaches, or berries for the apples.
• Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the bread pudding for a decadent twist.
• Nuts: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or soy milk in place of dairy milk for a dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free bread pudding.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Elevate your Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding experience with these serving suggestions:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the warm spices and sweet apples.
• Whipped Cream: A light and airy topping that adds a touch of elegance.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
• Warm Milk: Enjoy a slice of bread pudding with a glass of warm milk for a comforting evening snack.
• Brunch Staple: Serve as part of a brunch spread with other breakfast favorites like eggs, bacon, and fruit.

Health Benefits

This Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits.

• Fiber: From the apples and bread, which aids in digestion.
• Vitamins: Apples are a good source of Vitamin C.
• Calcium: From the milk, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
• Antioxidants: Cinnamon and nutmeg contain antioxidants that help protect against cell damage.

Fun Fact: One serving can provide a good source of energy to start your day!

Storage & Reheating

Want to enjoy your Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding later? Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Storage: Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze individual slices of bread pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers!

How do I prevent the bread pudding from being soggy?

Use day-old bread and don’t over-soak it in the custard.

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples all work well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Can I add nuts to the bread pudding?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds would be a delicious addition.

What if I don’t have vanilla extract?

A teaspoon of maple syrup or a pinch of extra cinnamon can be used as a substitute.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 10g
• Carbs: 50g
• Protein: 8g

These are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting baked goods? Try these other delightful recipes:

• Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal – A wholesome and hearty breakfast option packed with flavor.
• Pumpkin Pie Crisp with Crust – A festive and delicious dessert perfect for the holidays.
• Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bakes – Indulgent and comforting oatmeal bake that is perfect for a holiday brunch.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding is a fast, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece! Share with friends and join us on Facebook and Pinterest for more tasty ideas! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

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