Have you ever had a cold day where you wished everything around you would turn warm? For me, nothing quite makes up for that like the smell of cinnamon and apples rising from the oven in the kitchen. This Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s a moment of comfort and happiness that I share with my family every fall. Once you try it, you’ll know what I’m talking about!
Picture this: It’s chilly outside, your kitchen smells like a cinnamon candle exploded (in a good way), and you’re ready to eat warm, gooey apple bread pudding right from the oven. If this doesn’t scream “cozy autumn vibes,” I’m not sure what does. 😊
Why Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding is the fall dessert you didn’t know you needed
Let’s cut to the chase: You want something sweet, cozy, and simple to prepare after a long day. Apple bread pudding can save your dessert life.
In my opinion, it’s the best way to use up stale bread, maturing apples, or simply fulfill your inner carb monster.
Wait—bread pudding? Isn’t that for the grandmas?
Have you ever wondered why bread pudding recipes have been around since, say, the 18th century? Simple: They’re incredible. And with apples and cinnamon? Game. Over.
Your friends and family will forget about all other desserts once they eat a warm spoonful.
Core Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
There is no need for anything fancy—just classic, real ingredients that you most likely already have at home.
Here’s everything you’ll need:
• Use stale or day-old bread for optimal results.
• Granny Smith apples are my favourite, but any apple will suffice. • Eggs
• For a creamier pudding, use whole milk. • Brown sugar adds warmth. • Cinnamon is a must-have for any autumn dessert.
• Combine vanilla extract, butter, and a bit of salt to enhance the flavours.
• Optional additives include raisins, chopped walnuts, or apple brandy (YOLO).
My Personal Connection (Or, Why I’m Obsessed With This Recipe)
I never understood bread pudding until a buddy cooked one for me with apples and cinnamon. It was a revelation—think French toast casserole, but far more indulgent. Since then, this meal has been my “cheer-up food” when it gets dark about 5 p.m.
If you thought bread pudding was boring before, this variation will change your mind forever.
Step-By-Step: How To Make Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding
Let us break it down. I’ll keep it easy because who has time for intricate recipes when they’re craving dessert?
Ingredients (8 servings):
• 6 cups cubed bread, preferably brioche or challah. • 2 medium peeled, cored, and sliced apples. • 4 large eggs.
• Milk quantity: 2 cups.
• Optional: add 1/2 cup heavy cream for added richness.
• Use 2/3 cup brown sugar.
• 2 tbsp white sugar (to sprinkle on top).
• Add 2 teaspoons cinnamon.
• Use 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
• Add 1/4 cup melted butter.
• Salt: 1/4 tsp.
• Add 1/2 cup raisins or walnuts (optional).
Substitutions and options:
• Gluten-free bread works well.
• For dairy-free options, use oat milk and vegan butter.
• Do you want some extra spice? Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg.
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F/175°C. Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
- Cut the bread into bite-size pieces.
- Combine apples, bread, and optional toppings (raisins/walnuts) in the baking dish.
- Combine eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, melted butter, and salt in a large mixing dish. FYI: No stand mixer is necessary!
- Pour the mixture over bread and apples. Gently press everything down so that the bread can soak up the custardy goodness.
- For a golden, slightly crunchy crust, sprinkle with white sugar (and additional cinnamon if desired).
- If possible, allow the bread to rest for 10-15 minutes to absorb all ingredients.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool for 10 minutes and serve warm.
Pro tip: Leftovers are delicious cold or warmed in the microwave the following day.
What Makes This Apple Bread Pudding So Special?
• Apples lend acidity to temper the luscious custard.
• Cinnamon provides comforting warmth, making you want to cozy up with a blanket and watch Netflix.
• Texture: Crisp edges, gooey centre, and tender apples. Each taste is a surprise.
Tips, Tricks, and Easy Fixes (from a Bread Pudding Addict)
• Use stale bread. Fresher bread can become too soggy. Day-old is ideal!
• Do not skip the rest: Allowing the bread to soak up the custard makes all the difference.
• Customize! Hate raisins? Skip them. Love pecans? Throw them in.
• Want it boozy? A touch of apple brandy or spiced rum elevates this dish.
Troubleshooting
• Is the pudding dry? You probably needed extra liquid or baked it for a little too long. Next time, cover with foil and complete baking.
• Is it too wet? Allow it to bake for another ten minutes, or use less milk next time.
Nutrition breakdown: What’s Really in This Autumn Dessert?
I won’t lie: this isn’t “diet” food. However, apples are high in fibre, eggs are high in protein, and milk contains calcium.
Want to lighten things up? Use low-fat milk, less sugar, or a sugar alternative.
Here’s a fast calorie table (per dish, estimated):
Ingredient Calories Per Serving
Bread (one cup) 80 apples (1/4). 20 milk (1/4 cup) 30 Egg (0.5) 35 grams brown sugar (1 tbsp) 30 butter (1/2 tbsp). 50 extras (nuts, raisins) 25 out of 270
These are approximate quantities; real values will vary depending on your bread, apples, and any additional ingredients. If you’re strictly tracking calories or changing up the recipe, enter your numbers into a calorie calculator (such as MyFitnessPal or YAZIO) to get precise results.
Please keep in mind that these are estimated numbers based on typical component amounts.
Here are some serving suggestions: How to make apple cinnamon bread pudding even better.
• Vanilla ice cream melts into the pudding. It is surreal.
• Whipped cream is a classic and always popular topping.
• For an extra kick, try salted caramel drizzle.
• Add powdered sugar for a “I spent all day on this” effect.
Feeling extra? Serve with hot apple cider to complete the fall vibe. 😍.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
• Using too much bread can result in a dry and sad pudding. Use enough liquid to completely saturate everything.
• Avoid rushing the soak, since it can result in bland bites.
• When under-baking, ensure the centre is firm and stable. If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil.
• Forgetting to add butter to the pan. Nothing spoils dessert faster than scraping bread pudding out of the plate in angry chunks.
Why This Is the Best Fall Dessert (And Why You Will Make It Again)
Apple cinnamon bread pudding is a rare delicacy that fulfills all cravings:
• Warm, spicy, and soothing.
• \tEasy to prepare with kitchen scraps. • \tAppealing to everyone, including picky eaters.
This dessert is not limited to holidays or formal dinners. You may make it for a lazy Sunday brunch, unexpected weekday treats, or whenever you want to indulge yourself a little. Honestly, I’d choose this over pumpkin pie any day.
Your turn! Share your experience.
I’d like to know how your apple bread pudding turned out.
Did you add pears, cranberries, or extra cinnamon? Please share your clever improvements in the comments.
If you took a photo, share it—everyone appreciates some dessert inspiration.
In summary: Apple cinnamon bread pudding is the simple, delicious fall treat you didn’t realize you needed. It’s nostalgic, comfortable, and fully customisable. Don’t skip this one—your taste buds (and your cold-weather mood) will thank you.
Are you ready to bake? You’ve got this.
Don’t forget: If you need additional recipes, tips, or want to brag about your baking abilities, you know where to find me!
Apple and cinnamon bread pudding is an easy and hearty dish in every home. If you try the recipe or add your own twist, feel free to share your experience with us in the comments! Maybe you’ll add walnuts, or discover it tastes even better with a little cream or honey. The most important thing is that you’re having fun and giving yourself a warm moment amidst the busyness of the day.