Caramel Apple Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Glaze

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cozy dessert that combines the best flavors of fall—and this Caramel Apple Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Glaze is just that. Imagine tender cubes of bread soaked in a rich cinnamon-spiced custard, studded with crisp diced apples, and drizzled with luscious caramel sauce. A hint of savory crunch from optional turkey bacon adds an unexpected but delightful twist. Finished with a silky cinnamon glaze, this dessert feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a special holiday treat.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Caramel Apple Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Glaze is a showstopper for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile—whether you’re using day-old bread or fresh, it transforms simple pantry staples into a decadent dish. The combination of tart apples and sweet caramel is a classic flavor pairing that never disappoints, and the cinnamon glaze brings everything together with a subtle warmth. Plus, the recipe is straightforward enough for beginner bakers yet impressive enough to serve to guests. If you love dishes with layers of texture and flavor, this bread pudding will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 6 cups cubed bread (preferably stale; a hearty white or French bread works best)
• 4 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 cups diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice tart-sweet balance)
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional, adds a savory crunch)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the baking dish)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glazing)
• 2 tablespoons milk (for glazing)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for glazing)

Before You Start: Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish – the perfect size to hold all the bread pudding mixture
• Mixing bowls – one large for the custard and one for combining dry ingredients
• Whisk – to beat together the eggs, milk, sugar, and spices smoothly
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in your ingredients
• Small saucepan (optional) – if you want to warm your caramel sauce slightly before drizzling
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for folding in the bread and apples gently

Caramel Apple Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Glaze, Made Easy

Step 1: Prep Your Bread and Apples

Begin by cubing about 6 cups of stale bread into roughly 1-inch pieces. Stale bread is best because it soaks up the custard without turning mushy. Dice your apples into similar-sized chunks to ensure even distribution throughout the pudding.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of milk, 1 cup granulated sugar, 4 large eggs, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon until well combined. This custard is the rich base that will soak the bread and apples.

Step 3: Combine Bread, Apples, and Custard

Grease your baking dish with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the cubed bread and diced apples into the custard mixture, folding gently to coat everything evenly. If you’re using turkey bacon, fold in the cooked and crumbled 1/2 cup now. Let this mixture sit for 10-15 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard fully.

Step 4: Layer with Caramel

Pour half of the bread pudding mixture into the baking dish. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the top, then add the remaining bread pudding mixture. Finish with the rest of the caramel sauce drizzled liberally on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pudding uncovered for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Glaze

While the pudding cools slightly, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon until smooth. This glaze adds a sweet and spicy finish that perfectly complements the caramel and apples.

Step 7: Serve

Once the pudding is slightly cooled but still warm, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the top. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

What to Use Instead

• Bread: If you don’t have stale bread, you can lightly toast fresh bread cubes to dry them out.
• Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Apples: Pears or peaches can be swapped in for a different fruit twist.
• Caramel Sauce: Try a maple syrup drizzle for a less sweet option.
• Turkey Bacon: Omit if you prefer a fully sweet dish or substitute with a plant-based bacon.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

• Using stale bread is key to the texture of this pudding—it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.
• The cinnamon glaze is optional but highly recommended; it adds a lovely finish and balances the richness of the caramel.
• For an extra layer of flavor, try sprinkling some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top before baking.
• This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover bread and apples, reducing food waste in the kitchen.
• Feel free to experiment with spices—nutmeg or allspice can add a warm autumnal touch.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly in the baking dish before serving. If you have leftovers, cover and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or place the whole dish in a 325°F oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes until heated through. The cinnamon glaze can be drizzled fresh after reheating to keep the flavors vibrant.

FAQ

Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the pudding the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning or before serving to enjoy a warm, comforting dessert.

What type of bread works best?

Hearty breads like French bread, brioche, or challah are excellent choices. Stale bread is preferred as it absorbs the custard better without turning soggy.

How do I keep the bread pudding from being too soggy?

Letting the bread soak for about 10-15 minutes ensures it absorbs enough custard. Baking uncovered allows excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in a balanced texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and find a vegan caramel sauce. Note that the texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Serve with These

• Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake – for a layered apple dessert experience
• Brown Sugar Cinnamon Shortbread – pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee alongside your pudding
• Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns – for a brunch spread with rich caramel notes

The Takeaway

This Caramel Apple Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Glaze is a timeless dessert that brings together the best of fall flavors in a simple yet elegant way. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover bread and apples, transforming them into a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing. The cinnamon glaze adds a lovely finishing touch that ties all the flavors together, making every bite memorable. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen.

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