Easy Homemade Apple Pie Bread Pudding Recipe

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm dessert that fills your kitchen with the smell of cinnamon and baked apples. This easy homemade apple pie bread pudding is exactly that kind of treat — cozy, simple to make, and packed with the flavors you love from classic apple pie.

this Recipe

You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up this apple pie bread pudding, and it’s a fantastic way to use up day-old bread. Each bite is soft and custardy with chunks of tender apples and a hint of spice. Once you try it, this will surely become one of your go-to comfort desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses simple pantry ingredients and stale bread for zero waste.
• Combines beloved apple pie flavors with a rich custard base.
• Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion or last-minute dessert.
• Serves 6-8 people, great for family gatherings or leftovers.
• Can be made ahead and reheated, keeping flavors fresh.

Ingredients

Gather these easy-to-find ingredients to make your apple pie bread pudding come to life.

• 6 cups day-old French bread, cubed (about 8 oz)
• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 cups)
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or caramel sauce for serving

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving

How to Make Easy Homemade Apple Pie Bread Pudding – The Best Comfort Dessert!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×9-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and combined.
3. Add the cubed bread and diced apples to the custard mixture. Gently fold to coat all the bread and apples, letting the bread soak for about 10 minutes to absorb the custard.
4. Pour the soaked bread and apple mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
5. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle caramel sauce if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use day-old bread for optimal texture—fresh bread can make the pudding too mushy.
• Choose crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balanced sweetness.
• Don’t skip the soaking time; it helps the bread absorb all the custardy goodness.
• Keep an eye on the top while baking and tent with foil if it browns too quickly.
• Feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover apple pie bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or warm a larger portion covered in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute French bread with brioche, challah, or even sturdy sandwich bread. Just avoid very soft or pre-sliced white bread, as it may become too soggy.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use almond milk, oat milk, or your favorite plant-based milk in place of whole milk, and substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

How do I know when the bread pudding is fully cooked?

The pudding is done when the custard is set, and the top turns golden brown. Insert a knife or toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding the night before and refrigerate it covered. When ready, bake it fresh, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.