Caramel Apple Bread Pudding in Cast-Iron Skillets: A Rustic Treat

Impress your guests with this rustic and indulgent Caramel Apple Bread Pudding served in individual cast-iron skillets. Featuring caramelized apple slices, golden bread cubes, and a rich caramel drizzle, this dessert is topped with vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for the perfect autumn treat. Here’s how to make this elevated classic.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding:

• 5 cups (300g) day-old bread, cut into cubes (brioche or challah recommended)
• 3 medium apples (e.g., Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 3 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) whole milk
• ¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ tsp sea salt

For Garnish:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Apples

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 2 tbsp butter.
2. Add the sliced apples, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and ½ tsp cinnamon. Cook until the apples are golden and slightly softened. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread Pudding Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease 4 mini cast-iron skillets or one large skillet.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture and toss to coat. Let the bread soak for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Skillets

1. Divide the soaked bread evenly among the cast-iron skillets.
2. Layer the caramelized apple slices on top of the bread.
3. Pour any remaining custard mixture over the skillets for added creaminess.

Step 4: Bake the Bread Pudding

1. Place the skillets on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the custard is set.

Step 5: Make the Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until amber in color.
2. Add heavy cream and butter carefully, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and add sea salt.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the warm bread pudding.
2. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top and finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Use stale bread for better absorption of the custard.
• For an extra decadent touch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
• Serve the dessert directly in the cast-iron skillets for a charming presentation.

This Caramel Apple Bread Pudding in Cast-Iron Skillets is the perfect combination of rustic charm and gourmet flavor. Whether for a cozy dinner party or a holiday gathering, this dessert will be the highlight of your table. Try it today and enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of autumn!