Applesauce Bread Pudding
A warm and comforting bread pudding infused with applesauce, cinnamon, and raisins, perfect for cozy gatherings or comforting dessert options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a well-buttered square baking dish, layer half of the bread cubes.
- Combine the applesauce with cinnamon and nutmeg, then spread over the bread.
- Scatter raisins over the applesauce mixture.
- Top with remaining bread cubes.
- Dot with butter.
- In a bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and applesauce layers.
- Sprinkle more cinnamon on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For added texture, try using a mix of bread types, like a sourdough or brioche. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, increase the sugar to 3/4 cup or add a tablespoon of maple syrup. You can substitute the raisins with chopped dried cranberries or apples for a different flavor. To enhance the spices, consider adding a pinch of allspice or ginger.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, drizzled with a little caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of hot coffee. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a light salad, such as Pink Squirrel Salad, to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover applesauce bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds. Alternatively, warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Bread Pudding contains roughly 497 calories, with 6g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use store-bought applesauce for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought applesauce works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s unsweetened or lightly sweetened to control the overall sweetness of the pudding. Homemade applesauce can also add a fresh flavor if you prefer.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this applesauce bread pudding gluten-free, substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread. Ensure all other ingredients, such as the eggs and milk, are gluten-free as well. This simple swap will allow you to enjoy the dish without compromising on flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bread pudding the night before and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
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).