Apple Bread Pudding
Apple Bread Pudding is a delightful and comforting dessert that combines the sweetness of tart apples with the richness of buttered bread. Infused with lemon and warm spices, this dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Serve it warm with cream for a satisfying finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread bread on both sides with butter. Cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Place half the cubes in a buttered shallow baking dish.
- Mix apples, lemon juice and rind, both sugars, cinnamon, and raisins.
- Spoon the apple mixture over the bread and top with remaining bread cubes.
- Pour cream over the bread.
- Bake at 350° for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle on pecan halves and return to oven for 10 minutes.
- Serve in a sauce dish with cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or challah instead of white bread. If tart apples are unavailable, Granny Smith apples work well. You can also substitute the raisins with dried cranberries for a different twist. Make sure to butter the baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking, and allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving for easier portioning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the apple bread pudding warm, drizzled with additional cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination. It pairs beautifully with Caramel Popcorn for a sweet dessert platter. For a brunch option, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help to keep it moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Bread Pudding contains roughly 667 calories, with 8g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple bread pudding a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best, as they balance the sweetness of the sugars. You can also experiment with a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! Substitute the white bread with gluten-free bread. Just ensure that all other ingredients, including sugars and cream, are gluten-free as well. This will allow you to enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of apple bread pudding.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).