This Apple Pie Bread Pudding takes all the comforting flavors of a warm apple pie and transforms them into a rich, custardy bread pudding. With layers of cinnamon-spiced apples and soft, pillowy bread cubes soaked in a sweet custard, this dessert is the ultimate autumn treat. Whether you’re enjoying it as a comforting weeknight dessert or serving it at a holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Fun Fact: The History of Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is a classic dish that originated as a way to use up stale bread. Over the years, it has evolved into a beloved dessert, often featuring rich, custard-soaked bread and sweet additions like fruits and spices. This version brings in the flavors of a traditional apple pie, combining the best of both desserts into one comforting dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Bread pudding also freezes well—just wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Cooking Tips

For an extra indulgent dessert, serve your bread pudding with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also customize the recipe by adding a handful of raisins, pecans, or even a splash of rum to the custard mixture for added flavor. If you prefer a stronger apple flavor, use a combination of sweet and tart apples for balance.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Sugar: 34g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fiber: 3g

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is warm, cozy, and packed with spiced apple goodness, making it the perfect dessert for fall and winter months.

Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ¾ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• 2 cups granulated sugar (separated)
• 4 cups whole milk
• 6 eggs
• 1 large loaf of crusty bread (Italian or country)
• 5 small apples
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 4 cups hot tap water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the spice mix and bread:
   In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, then set aside. Cut the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
2. Scald the milk:
   In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it’s just about to boil but not bubbling. This is called "scalding." Remove from heat once warmed.
3. Make the custard:
   While the milk is heating, crack the eggs into a large bowl and whisk them vigorously with 1½ cups of granulated sugar until smooth. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Once fully combined, whisk in 1½ teaspoons of the prepared spice mix.
4. Soak the bread:
   Add all of the bread cubes into the large bowl with the custard mixture. Toss the bread to ensure it’s fully coated, then let it soak for about 30 minutes, occasionally pressing down to make sure all the bread soaks up the custard.
5. Prepare the apples:
   Preheat the oven to 300°F. Wash, peel, and dice the apples into ½-inch cubes. Toss the apples with lemon juice and the remaining spice mix, ensuring the apples are evenly coated.
6. Layer the bread pudding:
   In a 2.5-quart casserole dish or deep baking dish, layer the soaked bread and spiced apples in alternating layers, starting and ending with the bread. There should be about five layers total.
7. Bake the bread pudding:
   Place the casserole dish inside a larger baking dish or pan and transfer it to the oven. Carefully pour 4 cups of hot tap water into the larger dish to create a water bath. Bake the bread pudding for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is slightly crisp and the bread has a cake-like consistency with no liquid pooling around the edges.
8. Cool and serve:
   Once the bread pudding is done, carefully remove the casserole dish from the water bath and let it cool slightly before serving. Be extra cautious, as the water bath will be extremely hot.
9. Enjoy with a topping:
   This Apple Pie Bread Pudding is best served warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of crème anglaise.

Optional Variations

To make this dessert even more decadent, add a handful of raisins or chopped pecans to the custard mixture for added texture and flavor. You can also use a combination of different apple varieties, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to create a more complex flavor profile. For an adult twist, try adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard before baking!

Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this Apple Pie Bread Pudding at your next fall gathering or whenever you’re in the mood for a warm, homemade dessert!