Apple Walnut Bread Pudding

Apple Walnut Bread Pudding Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Apple Walnut Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting textures of bread pudding with the classic flavors of apple and walnut. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a sweet treat that's not too heavy, making it an ideal choice for any season. Whether you're looking for a cozy dessert to warm up a chilly evening or a refreshing sweet to enjoy on a warm day, this bread pudding is sure to satisfy.

History

The concept of bread pudding dates back centuries, with variations found in many cultures around the world. It was traditionally a way to use up stale bread, transforming it into a delicious dish by combining it with ingredients like milk, eggs, and sugar. The addition of apples and walnuts to bread pudding is a more modern twist, adding texture and depth to the classic dessert. This particular recipe, with its use of low-fat milk and egg substitute, is a contemporary take on the traditional dish, offering a lighter version without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients

4 slices of firm-textured white bread
2 tsp of melted margarine
2 medium apples, chopped
0.25 cup of chopped walnuts
2 cups of cold 2-percent low-fat milk
0.5 cup of thawed frozen egg substitute
1 prepared box of sugar-free vanilla pudding and pie filling

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Lightly brush the bread slices with margarine and cut them into 0.5 inch cubes.
Place the bread cubes on a cookie sheet.
Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a shallow 1.5 qt (1.42 liter) baking dish.
Add the apples and walnuts to the baking dish and toss lightly.
In a large mixing bowl, pour the milk, egg substitute, and vanilla.
Beat the mixture with a wire whisk until well blended.
Add the pudding mix and 0.5 tsp of cinnamon to the bowl and whisk until well blended.
Pour the mixture over the bread and apple mixture in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 tsp of cinnamon over the top.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

For a different twist, try using pears instead of apples or pecans in place of walnuts. Adding a handful of raisins or dried cranberries can also introduce a new layer of sweetness and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use a firm-textured white bread that will hold up well when soaked in the milk mixture. Allowing the bread to toast slightly in the oven before adding the other ingredients helps to prevent it from becoming too soggy. When chopping the apples, aim for uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Lastly, be sure to let the pudding stand for 10 minutes after baking; this resting period allows it to set properly and makes serving easier.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bread pudding warm for the best texture and flavor. A dollop of low-fat vanilla yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can complement the warm spices and rich flavors, adding a creamy element to the dish.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the initial toasting of the bread, which helps to prevent sogginess. Whisking the milk mixture thoroughly ensures a smooth, even custard that binds the ingredients together beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer not to use egg substitute, you can replace it with 2 large eggs. For a dairy-free version, almond milk or coconut milk can be used in place of low-fat milk.

Make Ahead Tips

This bread pudding can be assembled up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This allows the bread to fully absorb the milk mixture, resulting in a richer flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve individual portions of the bread pudding in small ramekins or dessert bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few walnut pieces for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A sweet dessert wine or a cup of strong coffee makes an excellent accompaniment to this bread pudding, enhancing its warm, comforting flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Apple Walnut Bread Pudding contains approximately 250 calories, making it a relatively light dessert option that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This Apple Walnut Bread Pudding is relatively moderate in carbohydrates, with the main sources being the bread, apples, and pie filling. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable dessert option for those monitoring their carb intake.

Fats

Thanks to the use of low-fat milk and a minimal amount of margarine, the fat content in this recipe is kept to a minimum. Each serving contains about 5 grams of fat, with a portion of this coming from the healthy fats found in walnuts.

Proteins

The inclusion of low-fat milk and egg substitute provides a good source of protein in this dessert. Each serving offers around 8 grams of protein, contributing to the dish's overall nutritional balance.

Vitamins and minerals

Apples and walnuts add a variety of vitamins and minerals to this bread pudding. Apples are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, while walnuts provide essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus. The use of low-fat milk also contributes calcium and vitamin D.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens such as nuts (walnuts) and dairy (milk). Those with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution or consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, this Apple Walnut Bread Pudding offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious dessert choice that doesn't sacrifice flavor for health.

Summary

This Apple Walnut Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and nutrition. Whether you're serving it as a cozy winter treat or a light summer dessert, it's sure to be a hit with family and friends. With its easy preparation and versatile serving options, this bread pudding is a must-try for any home cook.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were changing colors and the air was filled with the scent of apples and cinnamon. I was visiting my dear friend Mary, who was known for her delicious baked goods. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted with the most mouth-watering aroma. Mary was busy taking a golden brown loaf out of the oven, and I couldn't help but ask her what she was making.

"It's my famous Apple Walnut Bread Pudding," she said with a smile. "Would you like to try some?"

I eagerly accepted her offer and took a bite of the warm, comforting dessert. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before - the soft, moist bread soaked in a sweet custard, with chunks of juicy apples and crunchy walnuts mixed in. It was pure perfection.

"I need to have this recipe," I declared, my eyes wide with excitement.

Mary laughed and handed me a handwritten card with the recipe scribbled on it. She explained that she had learned how to make it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. As I read through the instructions, I knew that this would become a staple in my own kitchen.

When I got home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work. As I mixed together the bread, apples, walnuts, and custard, the memories of that day in Mary's kitchen flooded back to me. I could almost hear her laughter and smell the delicious scent of the baking bread pudding.

When the pudding was finally ready, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite brought me right back to that moment in Mary's kitchen, and I felt a warm sense of nostalgia wash over me. It was as if I had inherited a piece of her family's history, passed down through the generations.

From that day on, Apple Walnut Bread Pudding became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, holidays, and whenever I needed a comforting treat. Each time I made it, I felt a connection to Mary and her grandmother, as if their spirits were guiding me through the recipe.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this delicious dessert. I even entered it into a baking competition once, where it won first prize. I like to think that Mary's grandmother would have been proud.

As I grew older, my love for cooking and baking only deepened. I collected recipes from all over - from cookbooks, magazines, and even friends and neighbors. But no matter how many new recipes I tried, Apple Walnut Bread Pudding remained my favorite.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting scents of cinnamon and vanilla, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and traditions that this recipe has brought into my life. It's more than just a dessert - it's a connection to the past, a reminder of the love and warmth that food can bring.

And so, as I take another bite of the warm, delicious bread pudding, I can't help but smile. I know that Mary's grandmother is looking down on me, proud of the legacy that she has left behind. And I am grateful for the joy and comfort that this simple, yet delicious, recipe has brought me over the years.