Caramel Apple Bread Pudding is a decadent and comforting dessert that combines the warm, cozy flavors of spiced apples with rich caramel sauce and custardy bread pudding. This dessert is perfect for autumn, when apples are at their peak, but it’s so delicious you’ll want to make it year-round. The bread soaks up the sweet custard, while tender apples add a burst of flavor in every bite. Topped with a generous drizzle of homemade caramel sauce, this bread pudding is an irresistible treat that’s sure to please any crowd. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups day-old bread, cubed (French bread, brioche, or challah work well)
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Caramel Sauce (optional if using store-bought):
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce (if making from scratch):
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let the mixture simmer until it turns a deep amber color, about 8-10 minutes.
- Carefully add the heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and salt, whisking until smooth. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Remove from heat and let the caramel sauce cool slightly before using.
- Prepare the Bread Pudding:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed bread and diced apples to the bowl, and gently stir to coat the bread and apples in the custard mixture. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the bread and custard mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the bread pudding is set and the top is golden brown. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Serve:
- Allow the bread pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, drizzled with extra caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Enjoy your rich and indulgent Caramel Apple Bread Pudding, a perfect dessert for any occasion!
