Name: Caramel Apple Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14 oz brioche loaf (about 5 cups, cubed); 4 oz Skyr (Icelandic Provisions Extra Creamy Vanilla Bean Skyr plus more for topping); 1/3 cup condensed milk; 2 eggs; 1 3/4 cup half and half; 1 tsp vanilla bean paste; Cinnamon (to taste); 1 apple (cubed); 1/3 cup walnuts (chopped); Zest of 2 oranges (divided); Pinch of salt; 1 3/4 cup brown sugar (divided); 3/4 cup apple juice (fresh squeezed preferred); Zest of 1 orange; Dash of cinnamon; 2 tbsp butter; Dash of ginger

Introduction

This Caramel Apple Bread Pudding is a comforting dessert that beautifully combines soft brioche, tender apples, and a rich caramel sauce. With creamy Skyr adding a unique twist, it’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a special treat. Enjoy the warm spices and nutty crunch for a delightful autumn-inspired dish.

A square slice of layered dessert sits on a white plate decorated with blue and red flowers and green leaves on the edges; the dessert has a golden-brown crust base visible underneath a thick rich caramel layer with a glossy texture, topped with a dollop of white whipped cream that is smooth and fluffy, sprinkled with small chopped nuts and drizzled with a light caramel sauce. A silver fork rests on the right side of the plate. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with parts of a dark bottle and a blue bowl with similar dessert visible at the top of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

14 oz brioche loaf (about 5 cups, cubed)

4 oz Skyr (Icelandic Provisions Extra Creamy Vanilla Bean Skyr plus more for topping)

1/3 cup condensed milk

2 eggs

1 3/4 cup half and half

1 tsp vanilla bean paste

Cinnamon (to taste)

1 apple (cubed)

1/3 cup walnuts (chopped)

2 oranges (zest)

1 3/4 cup brown sugar

3/4 cup apple juice (fresh squeezed recommended)

2 tbsp butter

Ginger (just a dash)

Salt (just a pinch)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla bean Skyr, condensed milk, zest of 1 orange, a generous dash of cinnamon, eggs, 1 cup brown sugar, a pinch of salt, and half and half until smooth.

Step 2: Add the cubed brioche to the wet mixture and let it soak for 15–20 minutes, adding a bit more half and half if the bread looks dry.

Step 3: Gently fold in the cubed apple and chopped walnuts into the soaked bread mixture.

Step 4: In a saucepan, combine the remaining brown sugar, apple juice, zest of the second orange, cinnamon, and a dash of ginger. Simmer over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter until smooth.

Step 5: Transfer the bread pudding mixture to a baking dish and drizzle the warm caramel sauce evenly on top.

Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and set.

Step 7: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve topped with extra Skyr and a drizzle of the apple caramel sauce for added creaminess and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old brioche for better soaking and texture.

Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.

Add a splash of bourbon or apple brandy to the caramel for an adult twist.

For extra tartness, use Granny Smith apples.

Make ahead and refrigerate the soaked mixture overnight for deeper flavor before baking.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread instead of brioche?

Yes, challah or any soft white bread works well. Avoid dense breads as they won’t soak up the custard evenly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute half and half and butter with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and vegan butter. Use a dairy-free yogurt in place of Skyr for a similar texture.