There is something absolutely magical about a warm, comforting dessert that brings together the best flavors of fall, and this Caramel Apple Bread Pudding Recipe does exactly that. Combining soft, custardy brioche with tender, spiced apples bathed in a luscious caramel-style sauce, this dish is the ultimate cozy treat. Every bite melts in your mouth with a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, embracing you like a favorite blanket on a crisp day. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weekend indulgence or sharing it during the holidays, this recipe will quickly become a beloved classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you! These simple components come together effortlessly to create layers of flavor, texture, and warmth that make this Caramel Apple Bread Pudding Recipe truly unforgettable. Each ingredient plays its part — from the creamy custard that soaks the bread, to the tart apples that cut through the richness, and the deep caramel sauce that ties it all together.

Brioche (8 oz, cut into 1-inch cubes): Using day-old or lightly dried brioche helps soak up the custard perfectly without becoming soggy.
Milk (1 cup, room temperature): Adds creaminess to the custard base.
Heavy cream (1 cup, room temperature): Enriches the custard for that silky texture everyone loves.
Granulated sugar (⅛ cup): Sweetens just enough to highlight the natural apple tartness.
Light brown sugar (⅛ cup and 1½ cups): Provides a deep caramel flavor both in custard and sauce.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp melted for custard, 8 tbsp for sauce): Brings richness and smooth texture throughout.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adding warmth and aroma to every bite of custard.
Large eggs (4, room temperature): Essential for setting the custard and giving it that pudding consistency.
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp in custard, 1 tsp in sauce): Delivers that cozy spice that pairs so well with apples.
Apple pie spice (1 tsp in custard, 2 tsp in sauce): A perfect blend of spices that deepen the apple flavor.
Kosher salt (⅛ tsp in custard, ¼ tsp in sauce): Balances sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Used to create the velvety texture of the caramel-style sauce.
Granny Smith apples (5, peeled and diced): Tart and firm, these apples hold their shape and add brightness to the pudding.
Water (1 cup): Helps tenderize the apples gently in the sauce.

How to Make Caramel Apple Bread Pudding Recipe

The image is divided into four sections, each showing a step in making a dish. In the top left, a white bowl filled with a creamy, grainy mixture with a wooden whisk inside is surrounded by small white bowls and cracked eggshells on a white marbled surface. The top right shows a wooden cutting board with a pile of light green chopped apples and apple pieces next to a pile of apple slices and whole green apples around it on the white marbled surface. The bottom left displays a white pot filled with evenly spread chopped green apples on the white marbled background, with more green apples, apple slices, and a small dish of brown powder nearby. In the bottom right, the same white pot is shown now covered with a thick, dark brown sauce over the chopped apples, surrounded by the same green apples, apple slices, and brown powder on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cubing 8 ounces of brioche into 1-inch pieces and leaving them out overnight to dry. If you’re pressed for time, a quick bake at 300 °F for 10 minutes will do the trick to lightly dry the bread so it soaks up the custard nicely without falling apart. This step sets the foundation for that perfect custardy texture.

Step 2: Make the Custard

Whisk together the milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, eggs, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt until completely smooth. This custard blend is what gives the pudding its rich, creamy body and infuses it with warm, fragrant spices.

Step 3: Create the Caramel-Style Sauce

In a large skillet, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and salt, cooking for about 1 minute to remove that raw flour taste and create a roux base. Add the light brown sugar, apple pie spice, and cinnamon, stirring until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Scoop out and set aside ½ cup of this sauce for drizzling later. This luscious sauce will coat the apples and drizzle over the finished pudding for extra decadence.

Step 4: Cook the Apples

Add the diced Granny Smith apples and 1 cup of water to the remaining caramel-style sauce in the skillet. Simmer on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples become tender but still hold their shape. The tart apple flavor balances the sweetness beautifully, giving the dish depth and brightness.

Step 5: Assemble the Pudding

Grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish. Layer one-third of the brioche cubes, then one-third of the caramel apples. Repeat two more times until all ingredients are layered. Pour the custard evenly over the top, pressing down gently with the back of a spoon to help soak every piece. This step ensures the custard penetrates throughout, encouraging even baking and creamy texture.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the assembled dish in an oven preheated to 350 °F and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. Look for a golden-brown top and a slight wobble in the center — this signals the pudding is perfectly cooked and still tender inside. Overbaking can make it dense, so watch closely.

Step 7: Finish with Warm Caramel Drizzle

Gently warm the reserved caramel-style sauce over low heat, thinning with a splash of water if necessary, and drizzle generously over the warm bread pudding before serving. This final flourish adds a glossy, extra layer of sticky sweetness that takes the whole dish over the top.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Bread Pudding Recipe

A close-up of a layered dessert on a white plate, showing a base layer of dark brown baked dough mixed with chunks of yellow apple pieces soaked in brown syrup. On top is a round scoop of white vanilla ice cream, drizzled with light brown caramel sauce and sprinkled with fine brown cinnamon powder. The plate sits in a small stack of similar white plates on a white marbled surface, with a white dish filled with more of the dessert visible in the background along with green apples and cinnamon sticks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement the warm spices and caramel. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts adds delightful crunch and a nutty contrast that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong black coffee or a spiced chai latte. For a brunch option, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad to brighten the meal with a little natural acidity and color.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a charming presentation. For festive gatherings, garnish with a cinnamon stick or an edible flower to make it feel extra special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover bread pudding tightly or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy little indulgences throughout the week.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled bread pudding in a freezer-safe container and cover tightly. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a microwave or warm oven until heated through. Adding a small splash of cream or milk while reheating helps restore its creamy texture. Don’t forget that extra drizzle of warmed caramel sauce to make it taste fresh and delicious again!

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its buttery richness, you can also use challah, croissants, or even sturdy white bread. Just make sure to dry the bread first so it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.

What if I don’t have apple pie spice?

No worries! You can easily make your own by combining ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves in small amounts. This mix will deliver the warm, cozy spice flavor the recipe calls for.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! Assemble the bread pudding the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure the custard soaks evenly and the flavors develop beautifully.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the milk and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or another creamy plant-based milk. Use a dairy-free butter alternative as well to keep the rich texture and flavor close to the original.

How can I tell when the bread pudding is done baking?

The center should have a slight wobble but not be liquid. It’s best when the internal temperature reaches about 170–175 °F (77–80 °C). Overbaking can make it dry, so keep a close eye during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that feels like a warm hug, this Caramel Apple Bread Pudding Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together fall’s best flavors in a way that’s both nostalgic and exciting. Once you experience that creamy custard-soaked brioche layered with tender, caramel-coated apples, you’ll find it hard to stop at just one serving. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to share this delightful treat with loved ones.