Spiced Apple Gingerbread Bread Pudding
Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Spiced Apple Gingerbread Bread Pudding, a delightful dessert that combines the warming spices of gingerbread with sweet, succulent apples and plump currants. This rich and creamy bread pudding makes for a perfect ending to any meal, or a cozy treat enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet weekend brunch, this dish is not only satisfying but also showcases the wonderful flavors of the season. Serve it warm, drizzled with a rich caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
N/A
Servings
133
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Gingerbread
1/2 loaf (Diced into small cubes (see recipe for Gingerbread))
McIntosh Apple
1 (Peeled and diced)
Currants
1/2 cup (None)
Milk
2 cups (Scalded)
Cream
1/2 cup (Scalded)
Vanilla Bean
1/2 (Split lengthwise and seeds scraped)
Whole Eggs
3 (None)
Egg Yolks
2 (None)
Sugar
1/2 cup (None)
Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Salt
1 dash (None)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting the gingerbread into small cubes and placing them in a generously buttered 8x8x2-inch baking dish.
2
Evenly layer the peeled and diced McIntosh apple and currants on top of the gingerbread cubes.
3
In a saucepan, scald the milk, cream, and vanilla bean over medium heat, stirring occasionally until just under a boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
4
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole eggs, egg yolks, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined and slightly frothy.
5
Gradually temper the egg mixture by slowly adding the warm milk mixture, whisking continuously to prevent scrambling the eggs. Once combined, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any solids.
6
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the gingerbread, apple, and currants in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread pieces to ensure they are fully immersed in the liquid.
7
Allow the mixture to sit for 30 minutes, or ideally refrigerate it overnight for a richer flavor.
8
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a water bath by placing a larger pan filled with hot water in the oven whenever you’re ready to bake.
9
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the water bath. Bake for approximately 1 ½ hours or until the pudding is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown beautifully.
10
Once done, let the bread pudding cool slightly before cutting it into squares. Serve warm with caramel sauce or whipped cream.
Nutrition Information
7
Fat
17
Carbs
2
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Apple Gingerbread Bread Pudding?
Spiced Apple Gingerbread Bread Pudding is a comforting dessert that combines cubed gingerbread, McIntosh apples, and currants with a creamy custard base made from milk, eggs, and warm spices.
What kind of apples are used in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for one McIntosh apple, which is peeled and diced before being layered with the gingerbread.
How do I prepare the gingerbread for the pudding?
You should use half a loaf of gingerbread and cut it into small cubes before placing them in the buttered baking dish.
What are the key spices used in this dish?
The custard is seasoned with cinnamon and a fresh vanilla bean, complementing the existing spices found in the gingerbread loaf.
How long should the bread pudding bake?
The bread pudding should bake for approximately 1.5 hours at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Should I cover the dish during baking?
Yes, cover the baking dish with foil initially, then remove it for the last 20 minutes of baking to let the top brown.
What is the purpose of the water bath?
A water bath, or bain-marie, ensures the custard cooks gently and evenly without curdling or drying out.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, for a richer flavor, you can assemble the pudding and let it refrigerate overnight before baking.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe is prepared in an 8x8x2-inch baking dish and is typically cut into squares for serving.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 133 calories per serving based on the provided nutritional data.
What are the recommended toppings?
This dessert is best served warm with a drizzle of rich caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.
Why do I need to scald the milk and cream?
Scalding the milk and cream helps infuse the vanilla bean flavor and ensures a smoother custard texture when combined with the eggs.
How do I know when the pudding is done?
The pudding is done when it is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
What type of milk and cream should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of milk and 1/2 cup of cream to create the rich liquid base.
Do I need to strain the custard mixture?
Yes, after tempering the eggs with the warm milk, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any solids for a silkier texture.
Can I use something other than currants?
While currants add a specific tartness, you could substitute them with raisins or dried cranberries if preferred.
How many eggs are in the custard?
The custard requires 3 whole eggs and 2 additional egg yolks for extra richness.
What is the fat content of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 7 grams of fat.
How much sugar is added to the custard?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of sugar, which is whisked together with the eggs and spices.
Why do I need to press down on the bread pieces?
Pressing down ensures the gingerbread cubes are fully immersed in the custard, allowing them to soak up the liquid evenly.
What is tempering the eggs?
Tempering is the process of slowly adding the warm milk to the egg mixture while whisking to raise the egg temperature without scrambling them.
Is this a seasonal dessert?
Yes, with ingredients like gingerbread and apples, it is particularly popular as a fall or holiday dessert.
Can this be served for brunch?
Absolutely, its sweet and comforting nature makes it a perfect addition to a cozy weekend brunch.
How much protein is in a serving?
Each serving provides about 2 grams of protein.
What size baking dish is needed?
Use a generously buttered 8x8x2-inch baking dish for this recipe.
How much cinnamon is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to be whisked into the egg mixture.
Should the milk be boiling when added to eggs?
No, the milk should be scalded until just under a boil and then allowed to cool slightly before tempering into the eggs.
Can I use vanilla extract instead of a vanilla bean?
While the recipe specifies a vanilla bean for depth of flavor, you could substitute it with 1-2 teaspoons of high-quality vanilla extract.
How long should the mixture sit before baking?
Allow the mixture to sit for at least 30 minutes to ensure the bread is fully hydrated.
Does this recipe contain salt?
Yes, a dash of salt is added to the custard to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.