Apple Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce
This Apple Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce is a comforting dessert, perfect for showcasing your freshly picked orchard apples. The tender apples and rich custard, bathed in a decadent bourbon sauce, will be a memorable hit. It's an ideal choice for a cozy evening or a special gathering.
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9x13 inch baking dish. Set aside.
- 2
In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes, apple pieces, melted butter, 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it absorbs the liquid.
- 4
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the bread pudding is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. While the pudding bakes, prepare the bourbon sauce.
- 5
For the Bourbon Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- 6
Remove the saucepan from the heat, then carefully stir in the bourbon and vanilla extract. The sauce may thicken slightly as it cools. Serve the warm bread pudding with a generous drizzle of the warm bourbon sauce.
Baker's tips
For the best texture, ensure your bread is truly day-old or slightly stale; this helps it absorb the custard without becoming soggy. If you do not have bourbon, you can substitute it with an equal amount of apple juice for an alcohol-free version. This dessert is also delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best apples for Apple Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce?+
For apple bread pudding with bourbon sauce, use a firm baking apple that holds its shape once cooked, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Granny Smith, Jonagold, or a mix of two varieties gives the best flavor balance between sweet and tart.
Can I make Apple Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce ahead of time?+
Yes. Most baked apple desserts keep well for 2 days at room temperature covered loosely, or up to 5 days refrigerated. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes to restore the crisp texture.
Can I freeze Apple Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce?+
Most apple bakes freeze well for up to 3 months. Cool completely, wrap tightly in foil and freezer-safe bags, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Do I need to peel the apples?+
Peeling gives a smoother texture and is traditional for pies and butters. For rustic crisps, crumbles, and sauces the skin adds fiber, color, and flavor, leave it on if you prefer.
Where can I pick my own apples for this recipe?+
Fresh-picked apples make a real difference in baking. Use our directory to find a U-Pick orchard near you and check our ripening calendar to see which varieties are ready this week.
Explore next
Find U-Pick apples near you →
Fresh-picked apples make baking better. See orchards close to home.
Best baking apple varieties →
Compare Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Granny Smith, and more.
When apples are ready to pick →
Month-by-month ripening across every US region.
More apple recipes →
Browse pies, crisps, cider, butter, breads, and more.
More apple recipes
Fresh Pressed Apple Juice
Experience the pure, crisp taste of autumn with homemade fresh pressed apple juice. Using apples you picked yourself makes this drink even more special. It's a delightful and refreshing way to enjoy the season's bounty.
Baked Apples Stuffed with Pecans and Cranberries
This baked apple recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the crisp, sweet apples you just picked from the orchard. Filled with crunchy pecans and tart cranberries, these warm, spiced apples are a delightful treat. It's an easy dessert that truly highlights the fresh flavor of U-Pick apples.
Cinnamon Apple Crisp with Oat Crumble
This classic apple crisp is the perfect way to showcase juicy, fresh-picked apples. With a warm cinnamon apple filling and a buttery oat crumble topping, it's a comforting dessert for any occasion. It's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.