Apple, Cheddar & Bacon Bread Pudding

My Go-To Comfort Food: Apple, Cheddar & Bacon Bread Pudding

As a busy working mom, time is a precious commodity. Finding recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare is essential, and this Apple, Cheddar & Bacon Bread Pudding has become a staple in my kitchen. I discovered a similar dish at a friend’s bridal shower years ago, and it instantly became a favorite. The combination of sweet apples, salty bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese is simply irresistible. The best part? It's incredibly versatile and easily adaptable to my busy schedule.

What makes this bread pudding so special is its effortless elegance. It's perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a sophisticated brunch, or even a comforting weekend treat. The creamy custard base perfectly complements the crunchy bacon and tender apples, creating a delightful textural contrast. I often serve it alongside a simple green salad to add some freshness to the meal. The preparation is straightforward, requiring minimal chopping and mixing. The most time-consuming part is allowing it to chill overnight, which is perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. I've experimented with different types of apples, cheeses, and even added a sprinkle of pecans for extra crunch. Feel free to get creative and personalize it to your liking! Sometimes I use leftover sourdough bread, adding a delicious tang to the overall flavor profile. You can also adjust the amount of bacon depending on your preference, making it a perfect dish to customize to your tastes.

Beyond its ease of preparation and delicious taste, this bread pudding also offers a fantastic opportunity to get the whole family involved. My children love to help with the layering process, carefully arranging the bread, bacon, apples, and cheese. It’s a wonderful way to bond over creating something delicious together, transforming a simple weeknight meal into a memorable family experience. The aroma wafting from the oven as it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

This Apple, Cheddar & Bacon Bread Pudding has become more than just a recipe; it's a symbol of comfort, family, and deliciousness. It's a dish that brings warmth to any occasion and never fails to impress, whether it's a casual get-together or a special celebration. It's a testament to the fact that the most satisfying meals often come from the simplest ingredients and a bit of love. So, try it yourself and experience the magic!

Ingredients I used:

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup maple syrup
• 5 large eggs
• 2 medium apples, peeled and chopped
• 6 cups cubed day-old French bread
• 1 pound bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
• 1-1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2-1/4 cups 2% milk

Step-by-step

• In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add apples; cook and stir 2-3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Reduce heat to medium-low; stir in brown sugar. Cook, uncovered, 8-10 minutes or until apples are tender, stirring occasionally. Cool completely.
• In a greased 8-in. square baking dish, layer half of each of the following: bread, bacon, apples and cheese. Repeat layers.
• In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cinnamon and salt; pour over top. Refrigerate, covered, several hours or overnight.
• Preheat oven to 350degrees. Remove bread pudding from refrigerator; uncover and let stand while oven heats. Bake 45-55 minutes or until puffed and golden, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let stand 15 minutes before serving.
• In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave syrup and walnuts until warmed, stirring once. Serve with bread pudding.
• Freeze option: After assembling, cover and freeze bread pudding. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350degrees. Bake and serve bread pudding with syrup as directed.