Welcome to a cozy corner of comfort, where the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fills the air, and the sweet indulgence of caramelized apples awaits. Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Caramel Apple Bread Pudding – a heavenly dessert that marries the classic flavors of apple pie with the rich, custardy texture of bread pudding. Whether you’re craving a warm treat on a chilly evening or looking to impress your guests with a decadent dessert, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ingredients:
For the Bread Pudding:
- 16 ounces French bread, diced into 1″ pieces
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 21 ounces apple pie filling (I used Comstock More Fruit Pie Filling)
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1/4 cup salted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Bread:
- Place the diced French bread pieces in a large mixing bowl.
3. Prepare the Custard Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
4. Combine Bread and Custard Mixture:
- Pour the custard mixture over the diced bread, ensuring that all the bread pieces are well coated. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
5. Layer with Apple Pie Filling:
- Spread half of the apple pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then, add the soaked bread mixture on top, spreading it out evenly.
6. Add Remaining Apple Pie Filling:
- Spoon the remaining apple pie filling over the top of the bread mixture, distributing it evenly.
7. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the bread pudding is set and golden brown on top.
8. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, brown sugar, and vanilla extract, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
9. Serve:
- Once the bread pudding is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the top of the bread pudding just before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Bread Selection: While French bread works wonderfully for this recipe, you can also use brioche, challah, or any other sturdy bread with a good texture.
- Apple Varieties: Feel free to use your favorite apple variety for the pie filling. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Topping Options: Enhance the presentation and flavor by adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each serving. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon for extra flair.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications to make this recipe suitable:
- Bread Substitute: Use almond flour or coconut flour-based bread for a low-carb option.
- Sweetener Substitute: Replace granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Apple Pie Filling: Opt for a homemade apple filling using fresh, thinly sliced apples cooked with a keto-friendly sweetener and cinnamon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator overnight. Bake it when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: While bread pudding is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making it from scratch? A: Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce as a convenient alternative. Simply warm it up before drizzling it over the bread pudding.
Indulge in the comforting embrace of Caramel Apple Bread Pudding – a timeless dessert that captures the essence of home and hearth. With its luscious layers of bread soaked in creamy custard and crowned with sweet apple filling and warm caramel sauce, this recipe is a true celebration of flavor and tradition. Whether shared with loved ones or savored in solitude, each bite is a journey of warmth and nostalgia. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to create a dessert masterpiece that will leave everyone craving more!
Experience the divine combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and rich caramel in our Caramel Apple Bread Pudding recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this indulgent dessert is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
