Cozy Caramel Apple Bread Pudding

Cozy Caramel Apple Bread Pudding

As the cool breeze of autumn sets in, there's nothing quite as comforting as a warm dessert to usher in the season. This Cozy Caramel Apple Bread Pudding combines the delightful flavors of sweet caramel, tart apples, and warm spices to create a dessert that's both comforting and indulgent. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this delectable dessert is sure to please.

Ingredients

• 6 cups of day-old bread, cubed
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1 cup of caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
• 3 cups of milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted

Cooking Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes and chopped apples. If using, add raisins to the mix.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well blended.

4. 

   Pour the milk mixture over the bread and apples, stirring gently to ensure all pieces are coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid.

5. Drizzle 1 cup of caramel sauce over the mixture and gently fold it in.

6. 

   Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and drizzle the melted butter over the top.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.

8. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Nutritious Value and Pairings

This Cozy Caramel Apple Bread Pudding is a delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of apples with the richness of bread and caramel. Apples are a great source of dietary fiber and Vitamin C, while the eggs and milk provide protein and calcium. However, it's important to enjoy this dessert in moderation due to its sugar and butter content.

To complement the richness of the bread pudding, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a refreshing contrast, a light side salad with greens, walnuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette can balance the sweetness. As for drinks, a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a glass of chilled white wine, like a Riesling or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the cozy flavors of this dessert.