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Discover a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of spiced apples and crunchy pecans with the comforting texture of bread pudding. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings, this recipe pairs beautifully with a selection of dessert wines to elevate your tasting experience.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of cubed day-old bread (such as brioche or challah)
- 3 large apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter for greasing
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter and set aside. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sliced apples, chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Pour the wet mixture over the bread mixture, gently pressing down to ensure all the bread absorbs the liquid. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soak.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Wine Pairings
Pair this warm bread pudding with a variety of dessert wines to enhance its flavors:
- Sauternes: Its honeyed sweetness complements the spiced apples beautifully.
- Muscat: Offers floral and fruity notes that enhance the pecans and cinnamon.
- Port: A rich, full-bodied option that pairs well with the hearty texture of the pudding.
Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with a little extra caramel sauce if desired, alongside your choice of dessert wine for an elegant finish to any meal.