This bread pudding uses apple cider donuts where a classic recipe would use bread. The cake-like donuts soak up a custard made with apple cider and cream, and the cinnamon and nutmeg in both the donuts and the custard carry through to the finished dish. It makes 8 servings and takes 1 hour 5 minutes, most of it in the oven.
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Because the donuts are already sweet and spiced, the recipe is short: whisk the custard, pour it over the cubed donuts, and bake. The result is soft and creamy inside with a slightly crisp top, which suits fall dinners, holiday tables and a quiet night with a warm bowl and a spoon.
What Goes Into the Custard and the Dish
The full amounts are in the recipe card at the bottom. This is what each ingredient does.
- Cubed apple cider donuts (6 cups): the base. Their cake-like texture takes up the custard well, and they bring the spice with them.
- Apple cider (2 cups): adds a fruity flavor that plain milk or cream would not.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): makes the custard rich and smooth, and balances the sweetness of the donuts and cider.
- Large eggs (4): bind everything and let the custard set in the oven.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): sweetens the custard and helps the top caramelize and crisp slightly.
- Cinnamon (2 teaspoons) and nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): they reinforce the spice already in the donuts.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) and salt (1/2 teaspoon): vanilla rounds out the flavor, and the salt keeps the pudding from tasting flat or overly sweet.
Getting the Soak and the Bake Right
Choose good donuts. Store-bought donuts work, but homemade apple cider donuts give a richer flavor.
Let the donuts soak. After pouring the custard over the cubes, press down gently so every piece takes up liquid. If you have time, let the dish sit for 10 to 15 minutes before it goes into the oven. This is what keeps the pudding moist.
Watch the top. Ovens vary, so check early. You want a golden top that is set, though the middle may still jiggle slightly. If the surface browns too fast, cover the dish loosely with foil.
Let it cool. A few minutes out of the oven helps the pudding set further and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Ways to Change It
- Fruit: mix chopped apples or pears into the custard, or add dried cranberries or raisins for some chew.
- Heat: a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger in the custard gives a warm, spicy edge.
- Liquor and syrup: bourbon or rum can go into the custard, and a splash of maple syrup adds depth.
- Gluten-free: try gluten-free donuts or bread, and check that any sauces or toppings are gluten-free too.
How to Serve It
Serve it warm. The recipe cuts into 8 pieces. Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream is the simplest topping, since the cold cream contrasts with the spiced pudding. A drizzle of caramel sauce or warm maple syrup adds sweetness and a glossy finish, and a sprinkle of cinnamon goes well on top. Fresh apple slices or chopped nuts make an easy garnish with some texture.
How Long It Takes
Prep takes 15 minutes and baking takes 50 minutes, so the total is 1 hour 5 minutes. Measure everything out before you start and the prep goes quickly.
Nutrition per Serving
One piece has approximately 350 calories, 15 grams of fat (9 grams saturated), 45 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of fiber, 25 grams of sugar, 5 grams of protein and 200 milligrams of sodium. These are estimates.
FAQ
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the pudding a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before it goes into the oven.
How should leftovers be stored?
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can store-bought donuts be used?
Yes. Homemade donuts give a richer flavor, but store-bought ones work.
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Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team
The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us
Apple Cider Donut Bread Pudding
Ingredients
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, whisk together the apple cider, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and nutmeg.
Place the cubed donuts in a greased baking dish.
Pour the egg mixture over the donuts, pressing down to soak them.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
Let cool before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use homemade apple cider donuts.
Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
| Serving Size | 1 piece |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 calories |
| Sugar Content | 25g |
| Sodium Content | 200mg |
| Fat Content | 15g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 9g |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | 3g |
| Trans Fat Content | 0g |
| Carbohydrate Content | 45g |
| Fiber Content | 2g |
| Protein Content | 5g |
| Cholesterol Content | 100mg |