Uncovering the Underrated Delight of Apple Pie Walnut Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert that combines the warmth of fall flavors with the comforting richness of bread pudding, then look no further than Apple Pie Walnut Bread Pudding. This decadent treat takes the beloved classic bread pudding to the next level by incorporating sweet, spiced apples, crunchy toasted walnuts, and a custard base that’s smooth and velvety. It’s like eating a slice of apple pie, but with the luxurious texture of bread pudding!

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, looking for a show-stopping dessert for Thanksgiving, or simply craving something sweet and comforting, this bread pudding is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, filled with flavor, and just the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Walnut Bread Pudding

1.      Fall Flavors – The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet apples brings all the warm, cozy flavors of apple pie into a soft, custardy bread pudding.

2.      Crisp, Nutty Texture – Toasted walnuts add an irresistible crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly balances the soft, pillowy bread.

3.      Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family brunch, a holiday dinner, or a weeknight treat, this bread pudding makes a statement.

4.      Make-Ahead Friendly – This dessert can be assembled the night before and baked right before serving, making it the perfect make-ahead dish for busy days.

5.      Versatile Serving Options – Serve it warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

When you think of comfort food, few desserts bring the same sense of warmth and nostalgia as bread pudding. Among its many varieties, Apple Pie Walnut Bread Pudding shines with its wonderful blend of flavors and textures. This delightful dish combines the homey taste of apple pie with the hearty satisfaction of bread pudding, making it a cozy favorite.

A delectable slice of Apple Pie Walnut Bread Pudding served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients:

For the Bread Pudding:

·       6 cups day-old bread (preferably challah, brioche, or French bread), cut into cubes

·       2 cups whole milk

·       1/2 cup heavy cream

·       3/4 cup granulated sugar

·       1 teaspoon vanilla extract

·       2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

·       1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

·       1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

·       4 large eggs

·       2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

·       2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 medium apples, preferably a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

·       1/2 cup chopped walnuts (lightly toasted for extra flavor)

·       1/4 cup brown sugar (for sprinkling on top)

For the Caramel Sauce (Optional but Highly Recommended):

·       1/2 cup unsalted butter

·       1 cup heavy cream

·       1 cup brown sugar

·       1 teaspoon vanilla extract

·       Pinch of salt

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Pudding

1.      Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2.      Toast the Walnuts: In a small pan, toast the chopped walnuts over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.

3.      Prepare the Bread: Cube the day-old bread and place it in the prepared baking dish. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out by placing the cubes on a baking sheet and toasting them in the oven for 10 minutes at 350°F.

4.      Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The custard should be well-combined and smooth.

5.      Toss in the Apples and Walnuts: Add the diced apples and toasted walnuts to the cubed bread. Then pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently with a spoon to make sure the bread soaks up the custard. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb.

6.      Bake: Sprinkle the top with the brown sugar and any extra cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired. Bake the bread pudding for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

7.      Cool Slightly: Let the bread pudding cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help it firm up and be easier to slice.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce (Optional, but Delicious)

1.      Melt the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.

2.      Add the Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

3.      Finish the Sauce: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before drizzling over the warm bread pudding.

Tips for Success:

·       Use Day-Old Bread: Day-old bread absorbs the custard better and gives the bread pudding a wonderful texture. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out in the oven as mentioned above.

·       Customize with Fruits: Feel free to experiment with other fruits in place of apples, such as pears or dried cranberries, for a twist on the classic recipe.

·       For Extra Flavor: Try adding a splash of bourbon, rum, or maple syrup to the custard for an additional layer of flavor.

·       Make Ahead: This bread pudding can be assembled the night before. Simply cover it and refrigerate overnight, then bake it the next day. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy holidays or gatherings.

How to Serve Apple Pie Walnut Bread Pudding

·       Warm and Cozy: Serve the bread pudding warm from the oven, drizzled with homemade caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm custard and cold ice cream is heavenly!

·       With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the richness of the bread pudding.

·       For Breakfast or Brunch: This bread pudding makes a decadent breakfast or brunch option. Pair it with a cup of coffee or chai tea for a perfect start to the day.

·       As a Dessert: Serve it as the perfect ending to a fall meal—whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner, a family gathering, or a cozy weeknight.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Dessert

Apple Pie Walnut Bread Pudding is everything you love about fall wrapped into one indulgent dessert. The soft, custardy bread, the sweet and spiced apples, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the rich, buttery caramel sauce all come together in perfect harmony. Each bite feels like a comforting hug, making this bread pudding the ultimate comfort food for cooler weather.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving something warm and indulgent, this dessert is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up stale bread and make something special with simple ingredients.

Enjoy a slice (or two) of this comforting Apple Pie Walnut Bread Pudding and cozy up with loved ones—because some desserts are just made for sharing!