Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

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Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding is a cozy, comforting dessert that brings together the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, all wrapped in a custardy base of soft bread. This dessert is perfect for cool fall evenings or a holiday table, offering the flavors of spiced apples and rich, creamy custard. It’s a great way to use up day-old bread, giving it a new life with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Serve it warm, straight out of the oven, with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups day-old bread, cubed (French or brioche work well)
  • 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup raisins or chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a similar size with butter.
  2. Prepare the bread: Spread the cubed bread evenly in the baking dish. If your bread is fresh, lightly toast the cubes in the oven for 5-10 minutes until they’re slightly crispy.
  3. Add the apples: Scatter the diced apples over the bread cubes in the baking dish. If you’re adding raisins or nuts, sprinkle them over as well.
  4. Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  5. Pour the custard over the bread and apples, making sure to coat all the bread pieces. Press the bread gently down into the custard to ensure everything soaks evenly. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
  6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown on top and set in the center. A knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
  7. Serve warm, optionally with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy this cozy and flavorful Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding for dessert or even as a sweet breakfast treat!