Easy Caramel Apple Bread Pudding
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When it comes to comfort food, few desserts bring cozy vibes quite like a warm serving of caramel apple bread pudding. This delightful dish combines classic flavors in an easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re savoring it at a family gathering, serving it at a holiday brunch, or indulging on a chilly evening, the rich caramel and tart apples are sure to transport you to a place of pure bliss. As someone who enjoys exploring different comfort food recipes, this one stands out because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to dive into this Easy Caramel Apple Bread Pudding. To start, it’s a fantastic way to transform stale French bread into a decadent dessert that feels fancy yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. With a budget-friendly ingredient list and plenty of room for improvisation, it’s a win-win for anyone wanting to whip up something special without breaking the bank.
Imagine coming home after a long day and filling your kitchen with the warm, inviting scent of caramelized apples and spices! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a leisurely weekend brunch, or even an autumn get-together with friends. Plus, who can resist the warmth of bread pudding topped with a dollop of whipped cream?
“This caramel apple bread pudding was an absolute hit at our family gathering! The flavors blended together beautifully, and everyone asked for seconds!”
Preparing Easy Caramel Apple Bread Pudding
Making this bread pudding is a straightforward process, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying it with loved ones. You’ll start by sautéing the apples and then layering them with bread in a casserole dish. Next, mix a simple custard and pour it over the layered ingredients before baking until perfectly set. Keep it easy and enjoyable—it’s all about the process!
What you’ll need
To create this comforting dessert, gather the following ingredients:
- 14 oz French bread (stale works best)
- 1 bag (3/4 lb) gala apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 4 TBSP butter (for sautéing)
- 2 1/2 TBSP flour
- 2 tsp apple pie spice
- 3/4 C brown sugar (packed, for the apple mixture)
- 1 C water (to cook the apples)
- 5 large eggs
- 4 TBSP unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 1/4 C whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1/2 C brown sugar (packed, for the custard)
- 1 tsp apple pie spice (for the custard)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Note: Stale French bread is preferred as it absorbs the custard better. If you don’t have stale bread, you can dry fresh bread slightly in the oven.
Step-by-step instructions
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Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, 3/4 cup of packed brown sugar, and water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the apples are soft. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
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In a casserole or baking dish, evenly spread out the stale French bread. Distribute the cooked apples on top, making sure to get the apples in between the bread pieces.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, melted butter, vanilla, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, apple pie spice, and cinnamon until well blended.
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Pour the egg mixture over the bread and apple layers. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to gently press down the bread to create a semi-even surface.
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Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Test for doneness by gently touching the center; it should feel dense and firm. If it’s still squishy, let it bake for another 10 minutes.
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Once done, carefully pour any leftover apple juice over the top of the bread pudding. Serve warm, preferably with whipped cream or ice cream for that extra touch of indulgence!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving your Easy Caramel Apple Bread Pudding, think cozy and inviting. Consider a warm serving topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You might also pair it with a drizzle of caramel sauce for those sweet-toothed guests. For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts on top before serving.
Storage and reheating tips
To store leftovers, let the bread pudding cool completely and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. To reheat, slice individual portions and warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until heated through.
If you want to enjoy it later, this dish can also be frozen. Just cover it tightly and store in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as above.
Helpful cooking tips
- Stale bread is key: Using stale French bread ensures a better texture since it absorbs the custard beautifully without turning to mush.
- Don’t skip the spices: The combination of apple pie spice and cinnamon elevates the flavor of the apples and adds warmth; consider adjusting to your taste!
- Test for doneness: A gentle poke in the middle should yield a firm center to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Creative twists
Feel free to mix things up with this recipe! Try using different types of bread, like brioche or challah, for a richer flavor. For a nuttier touch, stir in some walnuts or pecans alongside the apples. If you want to make it a bit more decadent, consider adding a sprinkle of chocolate chips or a swirl of peanut butter.
Your questions answered
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How long does this take to prepare?
The total time, including baking, is about an hour. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve. -
What can I use instead of gala apples?
You can substitute with any sweet, crunchy apple variety, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp. -
How do I ensure my bread pudding doesn’t turn out soggy?
Be sure to use stale bread, as it absorbs the custard better without getting mushy.
With these tips, your Easy Caramel Apple Bread Pudding will be a gratifying delight. You’ll want to make it again and again! Enjoy the deliciousness!
Caramel Apple Bread Pudding
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, and water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the apples are soft. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a casserole or baking dish, evenly spread out the stale French bread. Distribute the cooked apples on top, making sure to get them in between the bread pieces.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, melted butter, vanilla, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, apple pie spice, and cinnamon until well blended.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and apple layers. Gently press down the bread to create a semi-even surface.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Test for doneness by gently touching the center; it should feel dense and firm.
- If it’s still squishy, let it bake for another 10 minutes.
- Once done, carefully pour any leftover apple juice over the top of the bread pudding.
- Serve warm, preferably with whipped cream or ice cream.
