Caramel Apple Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that combines the flavors of sweet apples, rich caramel, and soft bread. This delightful dish is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any cozy evening at home. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for an indulgent treat!
Ingredients List
For the Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups day-old bread, cubed (such as French or brioche)
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 2-3 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For Topping:
- Additional caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
Timing
Preparing Caramel Apple Bread Pudding takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes of baking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Mixture
- Combine Bread and Apples: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and chopped apples. Mix gently to distribute the apples evenly.
- Make the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the custard mixture over the bread and apples, gently stirring to ensure all the bread is soaked. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
Step 3: Add Caramel
- Stir in Caramel: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the bread mixture and gently fold it in, being careful not to break up the bread too much.
Step 4: Bake the Bread Pudding
- Pour into Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Allow the bread pudding to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Drizzle with Caramel: Serve warm, drizzled with additional caramel sauce and topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Caramel Apple Bread Pudding (per serving, based on 12 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 20g |
Tips for Customization
- Apple Variety: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a more complex flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) for added crunch.
- Spice It Up: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice in the custard mixture.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving. You can also freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of apples and caramel in a warm, custardy bread pudding. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during the fall season or any special occasion. Enjoy this delicious treat with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgence!
FAQs
Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate before baking. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
The bread pudding is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, you can use various types of bread, such as challah, sourdough, or even leftover pastries, for different flavors and textures.
Caramel Apple Bread Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Bread Pudding:
- • 6 cups day-old bread, cubed (such as French or brioche)
- • 2 cups milk
- • 1 cup heavy cream
- • 4 large eggs
- • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- • 1/4 teaspoon salt
- • 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 2–3 medium apples)
- • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- For Topping:
- • Additional caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and chopped apples. Mix gently to distribute the apples evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread and apples, gently stirring to ensure all the bread is soaked. Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
Step 3: Add Caramel
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the bread mixture and gently fold it in, being careful not to break up the bread too much.
Step 4: Bake the Bread Pudding
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Serve
- Allow the bread pudding to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, drizzled with additional caramel sauce and topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
