Best Apple And Dried Cherry Custard Bread Pudding Recipes

Bread pudding is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. The basic recipe requires only a few ingredients, including stale bread, milk, and eggs. However, there are many variations of this dessert, including apple and dried cherry custard bread pudding.

Ingredients

To make apple and dried cherry custard bread pudding, you will need the following ingredients:

• 6 cups of stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups of milk
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1/2 cup of dried cherries
• 2 apples, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)

Instructions

To make apple and dried cherry custard bread pudding, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Grease a 9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Add the bread cubes to the bowl and fold them into the custard mixture until they are well-coated.
5. Add the dried cherries and diced apples to the bowl and stir until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spoon.
7. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the pudding.
8. Bake the pudding in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
9. Remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Top the pudding with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Variations

If you want to mix things up a bit, there are many variations of this recipe that you can try. For example, you could try adding different types of fruit, such as peaches or plums. You could also experiment with different spices, like ginger or cardamom. Additionally, you could try using different types of bread, like brioche or sourdough, to give the pudding a unique flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Apple and dried cherry custard bread pudding is a delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet apples and tangy dried cherries with rich custard and warm spices creates a flavor that will please any palate. Whether you serve it on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream, this pudding is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

When it comes to dessert, few things are as comforting and satisfying as a good old-fashioned bread pudding. But why settle for plain bread when you can jazz it up with apples and dried cherries? This delicious twist on a classic is sure to satisfy everyone's sweet tooth. Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind when making an apple and dried cherry custard bread pudding recipe.

Ingredients

The ingredients you choose can make a huge difference in the final product. When selecting bread, opt for a sturdy, dense loaf, such as brioche or challah. These types of bread hold up well when soaked in the custard mixture, resulting in a hearty and flavorful bread pudding. You'll also want to choose fresh, crisp apples that hold their shape when cooked, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. And when it comes to dried cherries, it's worth splurging on high-quality, tart cherries to really elevate the flavor of the dish.

Custard Mixture

The custard mixture is the heart of any bread pudding recipe, and this apple and dried cherry custard bread pudding is no exception. To make the custard, you'll need to mix together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and flavorings. For this recipe, you'll want to use a higher ratio of eggs to liquid than you would for a traditional custard sauce, as you want the bread pudding to have a firmer texture. Be sure to whisk the custard mixture thoroughly to ensure that it's well-combined and silky smooth.

Flavorings

To give your apple and dried cherry custard bread pudding a deliciously cozy and comforting flavor, consider adding warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract for a sweet and aromatic touch. Just be sure to not go overboard with the flavors; remember, the goal is to enhance the flavor of the apples and dried cherries, not overpower them.

Bread Soaking

One of the most important steps in making bread pudding is soaking the bread in the custard mixture. While it's tempting to quickly soak the bread and move on, be sure to take your time when soaking the bread. Let the bread sit in the custard mixture for at least an hour (or even overnight in the fridge) to ensure that the bread is fully saturated and evenly coated. This will help prevent any dry pockets or uncooked areas in the final dish.

Add-ins

While apples and dried cherries are the stars of this bread pudding recipe, you can also add other ingredients to really make it your own. Consider adding toasted nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy contrast, or even a bit of brandy or bourbon for an extra boozy kick. Just be sure to not overdo it with the add-ins; you don't want to overload the pudding with too many flavors and textures.

Baking

When it comes to baking your apple and dried cherry custard bread pudding, be sure to use a deep baking dish to allow for even cooking and to prevent any overflow or spillage. You'll also want to cover the dish with foil for the first half of the baking time to prevent the top from drying out or burning. And, as tempting as it may be, be patient when baking. The bread pudding will need to bake at a low and slow temperature to allow the custard to fully set and the flavors to meld together.

Serving

Once your apple and dried cherry custard bread pudding is fully baked and cooled, you can serve it either warm or chilled. If you opt to serve it warm, consider topping it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. And if you're feeling extra fancy, you can even drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the top for an added touch of decadence.

Storage

If you have any leftovers (unlikely!), be sure to store your apple and dried cherry custard bread pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.