Description
This Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert made with slightly dried bread soaked in a spiced apple cinnamon custard, dotted with raisins, and baked to perfection. Topped with dollops of applesauce, it’s an easy, cozy treat perfect for fall or any time you crave a homey sweet dish.
Ingredients
Bread Pudding Base
- 6 cups bread pieces
- 1/3 cup raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
Custard Mixture
- 2 cups milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Topping
- 1/2 cup applesauce
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare bread: Preheat your oven to 325ºF. Tear or cut bread into one-inch pieces if not already done. Spread the bread pieces evenly on a baking sheet to dry out slightly.
- Par-bake the bread: Bake the bread pieces for about 10 minutes until slightly dried. Remove and let them cool for a few minutes to release steam.
- Make the custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, 1 cup of applesauce, vanilla extract, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Combine bread and custard: Transfer the par-baked bread into a large bowl. Add raisins (if using) and pour the custard over the bread. Stir gently to coat all pieces and allow to soak for at least 15 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard.
- Prepare baking dish: Use 1 teaspoon of butter to grease a 2-quart casserole dish. Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Dot the top with chunks of the remaining butter.
- Bake the pudding: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160ºF and the pudding is set.
- Add topping and serve: Remove the pudding from the oven, then spoon dollops of the remaining ½ cup applesauce on top. Serve warm for best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries or skip them if preferred.
- Use day-old bread for best texture to absorb the custard without becoming too mushy.
- For a richer pudding, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- Check the pudding with a thermometer to avoid over- or under-baking; it should reach 160ºF internally.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
