Apple Pie Bread Pudding: 
Fall Comfort, Baked to Perfection

There’s something magical about fall. The air turns crisp, the leaves take on golden hues, and the scent of warm spices seems to follow you home. This Apple Pie Bread Pudding brings that autumn feeling straight to your table. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like wrapping yourself in a flannel blanket. The best part? Every ingredient came straight from Trader Joe’s, making this a budget-friendly bake that doesn’t compromise on flavor or the joy of a homemade treat.

Whether you’re hosting a fall dinner party or simply craving something sweet and soul-warming, this recipe proves that comfort and class can absolutely coexist.
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Apple Pie Filling Ingredients

  • 1 Loaf of Brioche Bread Cubed (preferably dried overnight)
  • 1 ¾ Cups Diced Gala and Granny Smith Apples (Approximately 5 apples—You can substitute with any apples of your choice)
  • 4 tbsp Salted Butter
  • 2 ½ tbsp All-purpose Flour
  • 1 tsp Apple Pie Spice
  • ¾ Cup Brown Sugar
  • ½ Cup Water

Custard Ingredients 

  • 1 Cup Whole Milk 
  • You can substitute with your milk of choice
  • 1 Cup Heavy Cream
  • 1 ½  tbsp Salted Butter
  • ¼ Cup and 3 tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • Pinch of Salt
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon
  • 4 Room Temperature Eggs
  • Turbinado Sugar (For a crispy golden top)
  • Vanilla Ice Cream (For serving)
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Equipment Needed

  • 2 Medium Saucepans
  • 8” Square Baking Pan
  • Parchment Paper (optional)
  • Silicone Spatula or Wooden Spoon
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

pro tip

Fall baking starts with the right tools. ZLINE's stainless steel cookware and Japanese Damascus Knives are engineered for precision and crafted with elegance. ZLINE’s premium saucepans and knives offer even heating and ergonomic designs. Whether you're melting butter or stirring spiced custard, you're in total control.

ZLINE 3-Piece Professional Japanese Damascus Steel Kitchen Knife Set (KSETT-JD-3)

The Method:

1. Preheat & Prep
  • Set your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8" square baking pan and line with parchment paper or grease with salted butter. 

2. Create the Apple Pie Filling
  • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and apple pie spice to form a thick roux. 
  • Add brown sugar, then fold in the diced apples and a splash of water.
  • Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the syrup has formed. 
  • Strain the juices. Save juices for the topping.

3. Mix the Custard
  • In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk, cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, vanilla, and butter until melted. 
  • Remove from heat and whisk in the eggs, one at a time. 
  • Don’t overcook; this custard should be smooth and rich, not scrambled.

4. Assemble the Layers
  • Layer a third of the brioche cubes into the pan and press lightly.
  • Top with a third of the apple mixture. 
  • Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with apples on top. 
  • Pour the custard slowly over everything and gently press down to help it soak through. 
  • Finish with a sprinkle of turbinado sugar (optional)

5. Bake
  • Bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden and the center still has a slight wobble. 
  • Let rest at least 10 minutes before slicing and enjoy! 

Your Oven Matters

The heart of any great dessert is consistency. ZLINE’s Wall Ovens are designed for even heat distribution and high-efficiency convection. ZLINE Wall Ovens make mastering bakes like this easy, all while fitting into any kitchen style. Customize your wall oven with Autograph Edition finishes: Polished gold, Champagne Bronze, or Matte Black. 

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