This fabulously festive fall dessert combines two classics (apple pie and bread pudding) resulting in a decadent, cozy dessert that will feed a crowd. With bread soaked in a rich, sweet custard, topped with chunks of buttery apples and a sweet apple pie sauce, this ooey-gooey over-the-top goodness is the ultimate comfort food. The layer of custard-like bread at the bottom is so soft it practically melts in your mouth, while the sweet-tart apples perfectly offset the richness. This simple yet delicious recipe can be served warm with ice cream for dessert, or for breakfast/brunch like a French toast casserole.
Originally published 9/28/2017; Updated 11/20/2022
Ingredients
Apple Pie Filling
8 Tbsp salted butter
¼ Tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup light brown sugar
4 large or 5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Gala)
4 tsp apple pie spice
3 cups apple cider
Bread Pudding
6-8 cups stale Challah or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 large eggs
4 Tbsp salted butter, melted
1¼ cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
1½ tsp pure vanilla extract
½ cup granulated sugar
Directions
Apple Pie Filling
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until the butter is absorbed, then whisk in the brown sugar until combined.
Add the apples, apple pie spice, and apple cider and stir to combine. Cover the pan and cook until the apples are soft, stirring occasionally, about 10-15 minutes. Once the apples are soft, remove them with a slotted spoon to a bowl and allow to cool.
Reduce the heat to low, and simmer the remaining liquid, uncovered, until reduced to a sauce-like consistency.
Bread Pudding
Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Evenly spread the cubed bread in the prepared baking dish. Then spread the cooled apples and half of the sauce (reserving the other half of the sauce for serving) evenly over the bread. Shake and tap the baking dish on the counter so some of the apple pieces fall in-between the bread chunks.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, butter, milk, cream, vanilla, and sugar until combined. Pour the egg mixture over the bread and apples. Press the bread down with the back of a spoon to absorb the liquid.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the center is set and golden brown. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and the reserved sauce for the ultimate comforting experience!