Apple Pie Bread Pudding | A Cozy Twist on a Classic Dessert

If you love the warm, spiced flavors of apple pie and the comforting texture of bread pudding, then this Apple Pie Bread Pudding is the ultimate dessert mash-up you need to try. Combining tender chunks of bread, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a rich custard base, this recipe is the perfect way to enjoy fall flavors all year round. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks.

Why This Recipe Works

This dessert takes everything you love about apple pie—sweet apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of caramel—and bakes it into a creamy bread pudding. The custard-soaked bread turns golden and crispy on top while staying soft and rich inside. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dessert but special enough for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, and watch it disappear fast!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Apple Pie Bread Pudding, you’ll need:

6 cups cubed day-old bread (brioche, challah, or French bread)
3 large apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
3 large eggs
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for richness)
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp butter, melted
Optional toppings: caramel sauce, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the bread – Cut bread into cubes and set aside. If the bread is fresh, toast it lightly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to dry it out.
Cook the apples – In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add diced apples, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Make the custard – In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, remaining sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Assemble the pudding – In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer bread cubes and cooked apples. Pour custard mixture evenly over the top, pressing the bread down gently to soak. Drizzle melted butter over the surface.
Bake – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, until the top is golden and the custard is set in the middle.
Cool & serve – Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Top with caramel sauce, whipped cream, or ice cream for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

Caramel apple version: Stir in caramel bits or drizzle caramel before baking.
Nutty crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
Raisin twist: Mix in golden raisins for a classic bread pudding flavor.
Make ahead: Assemble the pudding, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day.
Lighter option: Use 2% milk instead of cream for a less rich but still delicious dessert.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie Bread Pudding combines two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. It’s warm, cozy, and packed with cinnamon-spiced apple flavor, making it perfect for autumn nights, festive celebrations, or simply when you’re craving comfort food. Once you try it, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite for years to come.