Do Share Recipe

I made this Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding Recipe on a cool evening when I was craving something warm and comforting. The smell of baked apples and cinnamon instantly filled my kitchen, and I knew it was going to be special. I love how this recipe turns simple ingredients into a rich, cozy dessert.

Every spoonful is soft, lightly spiced, and perfectly sweet. If you enjoy baked treats, you might also like the Apple Fritter Bread Recipe for a fun twist on bread-based desserts. It’s the kind of recipe I come back to whenever I want an easy yet impressive treat.

Ingredients

Below are the ingredients that make this bread pudding flavorful, soft, and perfectly balanced:

½ cup white sugar – sweetens the custard and balances the natural tartness of apples
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds warm spice; fresh cinnamon gives stronger aroma
2 cups milk – whole milk creates a creamy custard; avoid skim for best texture
2 large eggs – helps set the pudding and prevents sogginess
2 tablespoons butter, softened – adds richness and moisture
8 slices brioche bread – absorbs custard beautifully; slightly stale bread works best
2 apples, peeled, cored, and shredded – fresh apples give better texture than canned

Note: several serving

Variations

This recipe is easy to customize depending on your taste or dietary needs:

Dairy-free option: use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk with vegan butter
Lower-sugar version: reduce sugar or use a sugar substitute like monk fruit
Extra flavor boost: add nutmeg, cloves, or vanilla extract
Fruit additions: mix in raisins, chopped pears, or dried cranberries
Crunchy topping: sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans before baking
For a savory option alongside dessert, try serving it with a side of Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes Recipe for a complete brunch experience

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of the time needed:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including soaking and resting time)

Equipment You Need

These tools help make the process smooth and mess-free:

Baking dish (9×13) – ensures even baking and proper custard setting
Mixing bowls – separate wet and dry ingredients easily
Whisk – blends eggs and milk smoothly
Grater – shreds apples evenly for better texture
Measuring cups and spoons – keeps proportions accurate

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding Recipe?

This recipe comes together easily with simple steps and minimal effort.

Prepare the Baking Dish

I start by preheating the oven so it’s ready when the pudding goes in. Lightly greasing the baking dish prevents sticking and helps with clean removal later.

Prepare the Bread

I tear the brioche bread into medium-sized pieces and spread them evenly in the dish. Using day-old bread helps absorb the custard without becoming mushy.

Add the Apples

I layer the shredded apples over the bread, making sure they’re evenly distributed. This helps ensure apple flavor in every bite.

Mix the Custard

In a bowl, I whisk together milk and eggs until smooth and fully combined. This mixture creates the soft, custard-like texture of the pudding.

Assemble the Pudding

I pour the custard over the bread and apples, gently pressing down so everything soaks evenly. I let it rest for about 10 minutes before baking.

Bake Until Golden

I bake the pudding at 375°F until the top turns golden and the center is set. Once done, I let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

After making this recipe several times, here’s what I’ve learned:

I always use slightly stale bread because it absorbs custard better
Letting the mixture rest before baking improves texture
Grating apples instead of chopping makes the pudding softer
I avoid overbaking to keep the center moist and creamy

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding Recipe?

This dessert is best served warm for maximum comfort. I like dusting it with powdered sugar or drizzling caramel sauce over the top. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream adds a creamy contrast. Serving it in shallow bowls highlights the apples and golden crust beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general nutritional overview per serving:

Calories: approximately 277
Protein: around 7 grams
Carbohydrates: about 39 grams
Fat: roughly 11 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigeration

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight.

Freezing

This bread pudding freezes well for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at low temperature or microwave gently until warm. Avoid overheating to keep the custard soft.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are so many reasons this recipe deserves a spot in your favorites list:

Comforting and cozy: warm spices and soft texture make it irresistible
Simple ingredients: made with pantry-friendly items
Easy to customize: adjust sweetness, spices, and add-ins easily
Perfect for gatherings: great for holidays, brunch, or dessert
Beginner-friendly: straightforward steps with reliable results

Ben Carraoli