Apple-Cheddar Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Description:
This decadent Apple-Cheddar Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering a wonderful balance of sweet and savory flavors. With the aromatic warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, combined with the rich tang of sharp cheddar cheese, it’s an indulgent treat that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or as an irresistible after-dinner dessert. Follow this easy-to-follow recipe to create a beautifully layered bread pudding that will impress friends and family alike.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Granny Smith apples | 3, peeled, quartered, and cored |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 1/2 tablespoons |
| Light brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated | 4 oz (2 3/4 cups) |
| Large eggs | 4, beaten |
| Whole milk | 2 3/4 cups |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 581.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 23.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 162.9 mg |
| Sodium | 543.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 82.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.4 g |
| Sugars | 52 g |
| Protein | 13.4 g |
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking your pudding.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Toasts
Take the bread slices and spread a thin layer of unsalted butter on one side of each slice (about 1/2 stick of butter in total). In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered sides of the bread. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet with the buttered sides facing up and toast them in the preheated oven. Toast in batches if necessary, for about 15 minutes or until the bread becomes golden and crisp. Once toasted, allow the cinnamon toast to cool on a rack, then cut each slice into quarters to form triangles. Set aside 24 of the triangles for later use.
Step 3: Prepare the Apples
Peel, quarter, and core the Granny Smith apples. Slice the apples lengthwise into thin slices, then toss them gently in a bowl with the lemon juice to prevent browning and add a touch of tartness.
Step 4: Cook the Apples
In a large, heavy skillet, melt the remaining 1/2 stick of butter over moderately high heat. Stir in the light brown sugar and cook until it begins to melt and bubble slightly. Add the apple slices and water to the skillet, stirring to coat the apples in the buttery sugar mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes over moderate heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the apples cook evenly. After 10 minutes, remove the lid and continue to cook the apples for another 5 minutes until they are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated. The apples should be soft but still hold their shape.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
Butter a 9-cup oval gratin dish or a 13x9x2-inch shallow baking dish. Begin layering your bread pudding by arranging a layer of cinnamon toast triangles at the bottom of the prepared dish. Break the triangles as needed to fit.
Step 6: Layer the Apples and Cheese
Spoon half of the cooked apple mixture evenly over the layer of cinnamon toast. Then sprinkle half of the grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup) over the apples. Add another layer of cinnamon toast triangles on top, followed by the remaining apple mixture.
Step 7: Create the Top Layer
For the final layer, arrange the reserved cinnamon toast triangles, sugared side up, in a ring around the edge of the dish, slightly overlapping each piece. This will create a beautiful, rustic border around the pudding.
Step 8: Prepare the Egg Custard Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, milk, and salt. Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the apple-bread layers, ensuring it soaks into the bread and apples. You may need to gently press down on the layers to ensure the custard is evenly distributed.
Step 9: Chill the Pudding
Cover the pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 1 day. Chilling the pudding allows the bread to absorb the custard and meld the flavors together.
Step 10: Bake the Pudding
Once the pudding has chilled, bake it in the middle of the oven for 30 minutes. After this time, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the pudding is set, golden, and bubbling around the edges.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the Apple-Cheddar Bread Pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm as a decadent dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of apples with the savory sharpness of cheddar. For an extra touch, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Tips for Success:
- Bread Selection: Use a sturdy bread like challah or brioche for the best texture. Avoid overly soft bread as it may disintegrate during the soaking process.
- Apple Variety: While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, feel free to experiment with other apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead Option: You can assemble the bread pudding a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just bake it just before serving for a fresh, warm dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
The combination of apples, cinnamon, and cheddar is truly a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the apples, the spice of the cinnamon and nutmeg, and the sharp, creamy flavor of the cheddar cheese all come together in this comforting and satisfying dessert. It’s a great way to elevate your classic bread pudding and surprise your guests with a unique flavor combination they wonβt forget!
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