There’s something irresistibly cozy about the warm scent of cinnamon mingling with sweet, baked apples filling your kitchen on a crisp morning. That’s exactly what makes this Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding a beloved favorite in my home—comforting, simple, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re craving a delightful breakfast treat or a comforting dessert after a long day, this recipe balances soft, custardy bread with tender apple pieces and a fragrant cinnamon kick that feels like a warm hug. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare with everyday ingredients, making it perfect for anyone looking to turn leftover bread into something truly special. Let me show you how this crowd-pleasing dish can bring a little homemade magic to your table—no special occasion required!
Why love Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding?
Cozy comfort: This recipe wraps you in warm cinnamon and sweet apples, creating the perfect feel-good dish. Simple prep: Easy steps with everyday ingredients make it accessible for every home cook. Versatile treat: Enjoy it as a delightful breakfast or a satisfying dessert. Waste not: Transform leftover bread into a luscious, custardy delight. Crowd-pleaser: Its inviting aroma and flavor will have everyone asking for seconds!
Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding
- Day-old bread – Use sturdy bread like French or brioche to soak up all the custard without falling apart.
- Apples – Choose crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweet and tangy flavor.
- Eggs – Bind the custard together, giving the pudding its creamy texture.
- Milk – Whole milk enriches the custard, but you can substitute with cream for extra indulgence.
- Sugar – Brown sugar adds warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the cinnamon and apples.
- Ground cinnamon – The star spice that infuses the entire dish with cozy warmth and fragrance.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and intensify the other ingredients.
Optional Toppings
- Butter – Dotting some small butter pieces on top before baking creates a lovely golden crust.
- Powdered sugar – A light dusting adds a finishing touch and extra sweetness.
- Caramel sauce – Drizzle warm caramel over each serving for an irresistible gooey finish, elevating this Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding to pure comfort food bliss.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding
- Preheat: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. This creates a nonstick surface and helps develop a golden crust on your bread pudding.
- Slice and Soak: Slice day-old bread into 1-inch cubes, then arrange in a single layer. Whisk eggs, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Toss Apples: Peel and core crisp apples, then dice into ½-inch pieces. Fold them gently into the custard-soaked bread, ensuring every cube is coated with apple-scented goodness.
- Let It Rest: Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard fully. This rest period yields a creamier, more uniform texture.
- Bake: Transfer to the preheated oven and bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still moist.
- Cool Briefly: Remove from oven and let the pudding rest for 10 minutes, allowing the custard to finish setting and making it easier to slice.
- Serve & Garnish: Spoon warm slices onto plates, then top with dollops of butter, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel.
Optional: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding
- Choose the right bread: Use sturdy, day-old bread like brioche or French bread to soak up custard without turning mushy.
- Don’t skip resting: Letting the bread soak in the custard for at least 10 minutes ensures every bite is creamy and flavorful.
- Balance your apples: Pick tart, crisp apples like Granny Smith to brighten the richness with their natural tang.
- Watch the bake time: Bake until the top is golden and the custard is set but still moist inside—overbaking can dry it out.
- Enhance texture: Add chopped nuts or dot butter on top before baking for delightful crunch and golden crust.
- Serve warm: Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding tastes best warm, allowing the aromas and flavors to shine beautifully.
Variations & Substitutions for Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding
Customize your dessert with these delightful twists to elevate your Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding beyond the classic recipe!
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon apples. The contrast in texture adds a lovely surprise with every bite!
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Cinnamon Swirl: Drizzle a cinnamon sugar mixture on top before baking for an added sweet crust and more intense cinnamon flavor. This creates a crunchy topping that complements the soft pudding underneath.
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter. This keeps the creamy texture while accommodating lactose-intolerant guests.
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate other fruits like sliced bananas or berries for a vibrant and refreshing touch. This adds a new layer of flavor and makes the pudding even more visually appealing!
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Spiced Up: For a warm, zesty kick, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard mix. These spices harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon, giving your pudding an aromatic boost.
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Chocolate Chip Heaven: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the mixture for a decadent chocolate-cinnamon fusion. Who can resist a rich surprise in every sweet mouthful?
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Maple Sweetness: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup in the custard for a unique sweet profile that complements the apples beautifully. This addition gives your dish a depth of flavor that guests will love!
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread as a substitute for ordinary bread. It’s an excellent way to make this delightful treat available for those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding in advance is a game-changer for busy cooks! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking—just follow the steps until you’ve mixed the custard with the bread and apples. After you’ve let it rest for those crucial 10 minutes, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain quality, ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful treat, simply remove it from the fridge and bake it straight from cold, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time. Soon enough, you’ll have a warm, comforting dessert that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding?
Indulging in a warm slice of bread pudding sets the perfect tone for cozy gatherings or comforting family meals.
- Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the creamy texture and makes each bite feel luxurious.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream melts slightly over warm bread pudding, creating a sublime warming contrast.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel lends a decadent sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and apple notes.
For a touch of refreshment, consider serving this dish alongside seasonal fruit salad. The bright flavors of fresh berries and citrus add a vibrant contrast to the warm, spiced pudding.
- Coffee or Tea: A cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea beautifully complements the warm spices in the pudding, inviting conversation and comfort.
Finally, for a delightful brunch option, enjoy your bread pudding with Maple Syrup. The sweetness of maple syrup elevates the dish to a delightful morning treat that nobody can resist!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding
Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly baked Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding the same day for the best texture; it can sit out for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and comforting treat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for a warm, cozy dessert.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.
Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples work best for Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding?
I recommend using crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith. Their natural tanginess balances the sweetness and keeps the texture bright and fresh, preventing the pudding from becoming too mushy.
How long can I store leftover Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or oven to bring back that warm, comforting texture.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding? How should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, cut the pudding into individual portions, wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. It keeps beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes for that fresh-baked feel.
What if my bread pudding turns out soggy or too dry?
If soggy, it usually means the custard soaked too long or the oven temperature was too low; try reducing soak time or baking at a slightly higher temp next time. If it’s dry, check that you’re baking just until set—overbaking can squeeze out moisture. Also, using day-old sturdy bread like brioche helps soak custard without disintegrating.
Is this Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding safe for pets or people with allergies?
This recipe contains dairy and eggs, which aren’t suitable for dogs or pets. For people with dairy or egg allergies, consider plant-based milk and egg substitutes—chickpea flour or mashed banana can work in tailoring a more allergy-friendly version, but keep in mind texture and flavor differences.
Indulgent Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding You’ll Crave Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Slice day-old bread into 1-inch cubes, then arrange in a single layer. Whisk eggs, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Peel and core crisp apples, then dice into ½-inch pieces. Fold them gently into the custard-soaked bread.
- Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let the pudding rest for 10 minutes.
- Spoon warm slices onto plates, and top with butter, powdered sugar, or caramel.
