Glazed Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

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The Ultimate Guide to Glazed Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

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I. Introduction: A Dish Full of Heart and History

Bread pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a story told through flavor. Originating from humble beginnings, this dish represents the beauty of simplicity, the wisdom of reducing waste, and the love of comfort food. The Glazed Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding elevates this tradition by infusing it with the seasonal warmth of apples, cinnamon spice, and a drizzle of creamy glaze. It’s indulgent, comforting, and nostalgic—often served during holidays, family gatherings, and special occasions.

Whether you’re preparing it on a chilly autumn afternoon or for a Sunday brunch, this pudding captures joy in every warm, custard-soaked bite.

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II. Ingredients: What You’ll Need

For the Bread Pudding:

6 cups day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed

2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and chopped

4 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

¾ cup granulated sugar

2 tsp ground cinnamon

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

1 tbsp vanilla extract

2 tbsp melted butter

Pinch of salt

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1 tbsp bourbon or spiced rum

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp milk or cream
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

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III. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Bread

• Use slightly stale bread for best results—it absorbs the custard better.
• Cube into 1-inch pieces and place into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Chop the Apples

• Peel and chop apples into small cubes.
• Scatter them evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Custard

• In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• Add melted butter and whisk again until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine & Soak

• Pour the custard evenly over the bread and apples.
• Press down gently with a spatula to make sure all the bread soaks up the liquid.
• Let sit for 15–20 minutes for best absorption.

Step 5: Bake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake for 45–50 minutes or until golden on top and the center is set.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

• In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with milk/cream and vanilla.
• Whisk until smooth and pourable.

Step 7: Glaze & Serve

• Let pudding cool for 10–15 minutes.
• Drizzle glaze generously over the top.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.

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IV. Formation: Why It Works

This bread pudding works due to a balance of texture, flavor, and moisture:

• The bread provides structure and richness.
• The custard adds creaminess.
• The apples offer sweetness, tartness, and bite.
• The cinnamon and vanilla deepen the warmth of the flavor.
• The glaze adds sweetness and visual appeal.

Each element supports the other to create a balanced, indulgent dessert.

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V. Historical Background

Bread Pudding Through Time:

• Ancient Origins: Dates back to 11th-12th century Europe when stale bread was soaked and baked to avoid waste.
• British Influence: Popularized as a “poor man’s pudding” in the UK; often seasoned with raisins, spices, or treacle.
• French Variation: Known as “pain perdu” or “lost bread” in France, typically fried and sweetened.
• American Southern Roots: Became a soul food staple in the American South, often with bourbon, pecans, or caramel sauce.

Bread pudding today is a refined dish enjoyed in gourmet restaurants and home kitchens alike.

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VI. Benefits of This Dish

🍎 Nutritional:

• Apples: High in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C.
• Eggs & Milk: Good source of protein, calcium, and B vitamins.
• Cinnamon: Contains anti-inflammatory compounds and may help regulate blood sugar.

🧠 Emotional:

• Comforting, nostalgic, and satisfying.
• Associated with holidays and family traditions.
• Provides a sensory experience that feels indulgent and nurturing.

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VII. Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 1 of 10)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	340–400 kcal
Carbs	42–48 g
Protein	7–9 g
Fat	15–18 g
Saturated Fat	8–10 g
Sugar	28–35 g
Fiber	2–3 g
Sodium	160–190 mg
Calcium	~120 mg

Note: This is an estimate and varies with ingredients used.

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VIII. Who Loves This Dish?

This dessert has many fans:

🎉 Seasonal Lovers:

People who wait for fall to make warm apple dishes.

👵 Grandmas & Family Cooks:

Passed down through generations, loved for its simplicity and tradition.

👩‍🍳 Foodies & Bakers:

Lovers of elevated comfort food often put their own twist on this dish.

👶 Kids:

Sweet, soft, and warm—what’s not to love?

💼 Professionals:

Great make-ahead dessert for busy hosts or potluck contributors.

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IX. Variations

• Caramel Apple Pudding: Add caramel drizzle instead of glaze.
• Bourbon Glaze: Swap milk in glaze with a tablespoon of bourbon.
• Pumpkin Spice Pudding: Add ½ cup pumpkin purée and pumpkin pie spice to the custard.
• Savory Version: Omit sugar and apples, add cheese, sausage, and herbs.

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X. Conclusion

The Glazed Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding is a dish that truly spans time and culture. It’s humble in origin, but elegant in execution. Rich in flavor and deeply nostalgic, this dessert offers more than taste—it offers connection, tradition, and joy. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something unforgettable.