There’s something undeniably satisfying about transforming yesterday’s bread into a decadent dessert, especially when that bread is sourdough. As the golden crusts of sourdough cubes toast in the oven, the sweet scent of cinnamon and warm apples fills the kitchen, instantly turning it into a cozy haven. When I first experimented with this Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding, I didn’t expect the delightful combination of tangy sourdough and umami-rich miso to create such a comforting, custardy treat.
This recipe blends familiar flavors with an unexpected twist, making it a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Ideal for gatherings or a soothing treat after a long day, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—enjoying delicious food and making memories. So, let’s dive in and discover how to whip up this scrumptious pudding that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding irresistible?
Comforting warm flavors: The blend of sourdough, buttery apples, and aromatic spices creates a homey aroma that’s perfect for any evening.
Unique twist: Adding miso introduces a layer of umami that elevates this dessert above the usual offerings.
Make-ahead delight: Prep it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and giving you more time to relax with your guests.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or bread variations, making each batch a new adventure in your kitchen.
Indulge in this comforting treat, and for more delightful twists on classics, check out our creative dessert recipes.
Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding
- Sourdough Boule – Provides structure and tangy flavor; use any crusty bread if unavailable.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the dish; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Granny Smith Apples – Offers tartness and texture; other apples can be substituted, but Granny Smith’s firmness is ideal.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness; substitute with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
- Light Brown Sugar – Deepens sweetness; use dark brown sugar for a richer flavor profile.
- Miso – Adds umami depth and complexity; use white or yellow miso for a milder flavor.
- Five Spice Powder – Provides warmth and holiday aroma; adjust to taste or use apple pie spice.
- Ground Cinnamon – Complements the apples beautifully; feel free to increase for a spicier kick.
- Apple Cider – Adds moisture and a pop of apple flavor; substitute with another fruit juice in a pinch.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors and balances sweetness; vinegar can be used if necessary.
- Eggs – Acts as a binding agent for the custard; for vegan alternatives, consider a flax or chia egg substitute.
- Whole Milk – Contributes to creaminess; can be replaced with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Heavy Cream – Enhances richness; use a combination of coconut milk and cream for a lighter option.
- Vanilla Bean Paste – Elevates flavor complexity; almond extract works as an alternative for a different twist.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; use table salt in a smaller quantity if needed.
For Serving
- Powdered Sugar – For dusting, adds sweetness and visual appeal; completely optional.
- Vanilla Ice Cream or Crème Fraiche – Serve alongside for extra creaminess; whipped coconut cream makes a great dairy-free substitute.
Dive into the comforting deliciousness of Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding, and don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients!
How to Make Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to create a custardy texture while allowing for a beautifully golden top.
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Toast the sourdough cubes on a sheet pan for 10-15 minutes until they’re lightly golden and slightly crisped. This step will enhance their flavor and absorption!
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Melt half of the unsalted butter in a skillet. Then, add the diced Granny Smith apples, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, miso, five spice powder, and cinnamon. Sauté until softened, about 10-15 minutes.
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Pour in the apple cider and lemon juice, stirring until the mixture reduces and thickens, which should take about 1 minute. This will intensify those sweet, tangy flavors!
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Whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, remaining sugars, kosher salt, and vanilla in a large bowl until well combined, creating a creamy custard base.
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Fold the toasted bread cubes and sautéed apple mixture into the creamy custard until they are evenly coated. This will ensure each bite is bursting with flavor.
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Butter an 8×11-inch baking dish and pour the mixture inside. Allow it to absorb for 10-15 minutes. This resting time helps the bread soak up all those delicious flavors.
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Drizzle the reserved melted butter over the top and bake for 45-50 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. You want a slight jiggle in the center!
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Cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraiche for an extra treat.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a fragrant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding
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Use Stale Bread: Stale sourdough absorbs the custard better, resulting in a perfectly textured pudding. Fresh bread can become soggy!
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Let it Rest: Allow the pudding to rest for 10-15 minutes before baking. This time helps the bread soak up the custard, enhancing the flavor.
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Watch for Browning: Keep an eye on the pudding while baking. If the top begins to brown too quickly, lightly cover it with foil to prevent burning.
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Get Creative: Don’t be afraid to swap ingredients! Different fruits or breads can provide new flavor profiles to your Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding.
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Don’t Skip the Toppings: Serving with vanilla ice cream or crème fraiche adds an indulgent touch that complements the warm, custardy dessert beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a few minutes before serving.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the assembled pudding before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
Reheating: For best results, reheat baked pudding in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through. This preserves its custardy texture.
Make-ahead: This Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. Enjoy stress-free entertaining!
Make Ahead Options
This Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can assemble the entire pudding up to 24 hours in advance. To prep ahead, simply complete steps 1 through 7, then cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the bread from becoming too soggy. When you’re ready to serve, just drizzle with melted butter, bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set, and enjoy a comforting, delicious dessert that tastes freshly made with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding?
Complete your cozy dessert experience with these mouthwatering pairings that complement the rich flavors of the pudding.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing adds a creamy, cold contrast to the warm bread pudding and enhances its sweetness.
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Crème Fraiche: This slightly tangy creaminess balances the sweetness perfectly, while adding a touch of elegance to your dessert presentation.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzled on top, it provides a luscious sweetness that deepens the indulgent experience, making each bite feel like a hug.
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Chai-Spiced Tea: The warm spices in this soothing beverage complement the savory notes of the apple miso blend beautifully, making for a heartwarming pairing.
Pair your Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding with a warm cup of chai tea. Sip it slowly as you savor each bite, creating moments of joy and comfort at your table.
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Roasted Nuts: A mix of lightly salted walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top introduces a delightful crunch, enhancing the rich texture of the pudding.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A simple sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before serving can elevate each bite; the aroma will transport you to a cozy café atmosphere.
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Fresh Berries: Lightly tart raspberries or blueberries add a burst of freshness, cutting through the richness and offering a vibrant pop of color on the plate.
Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding Variations
Feel like getting creative with your dessert? These delightful twists will enhance your Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding experience!
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Fruit Swap: Try using ripe pears or juicy peaches for a fresh flavor twist. Their natural sweetness beautifully complements the overall dish.
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Chocolate Surprise: Add dark chocolate chunks for a rich, decadent layer of flavor. The gooey chocolate will melt into the pudding, offering a delicious melding of tastes.
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Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a toasty flavor. This textural element elevates each bite and adds a lovely warm note.
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Miso Adventure: Experiment with different miso types; red miso will give a bolder flavor. You’ll discover surprising depths of savory goodness.
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Spice It Up: Boost the spices by incorporating nutmeg or ginger for a spicier aroma. These additions will warm your heart and soul.
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Coconut Vibe: For a tropical twist, replace half the cream with coconut milk. This adds a creamy, dreamy layer of richness that’s simply irresistible.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap whole milk and heavy cream for almond milk and full-fat coconut cream to make it entirely plant-based without losing that comforting flavor.
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Savory Mix: Consider adding crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of cheese for a sweet-savory combination that intrigues and delights your taste buds. It’s an unexpected treat that will have everyone asking for your secret.
Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of sourdough should I use for the pudding?
You can use any type of sourdough boule for this recipe. I recommend using slightly stale bread, as it absorbs the custard better. However, if you don’t have sourdough on hand, any robust crusty bread will work as a substitute.
How do I store leftover Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding?
After enjoying your delicious bread pudding, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven for a few minutes.
Can I freeze Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the pudding but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed for a fresh, warm dessert.
What should I do if my bread pudding is too dry?
If you find that your pudding is on the drier side, it may need more custard or absorption time next time. To rescue this batch, try adding a splash of milk or heavy cream over individual portions before reheating. This will help restore moisture and enhance the creamy texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding is rich in dairy. For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with a combination of almond milk and coconut cream, and use coconut oil instead of butter. Additionally, if preparing for someone with egg allergies, you can replace the eggs with either a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5-10 minutes to gel).
Can I make the pudding ahead of time?
Definitely! This dish is perfect for make-ahead cooking. You can assemble the Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Allow the flavors to meld overnight, then bake it fresh before serving to wow your guests!
Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding for Cozy Comfort Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Toast the sourdough cubes on a sheet pan for 10-15 minutes until golden.
- Melt half of the unsalted butter in a skillet. Add diced apples, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, miso, five spice powder, and cinnamon. Sauté for 10-15 minutes.
- Pour in the apple cider and lemon juice, stirring until reduced and thickened, about 1 minute.
- Whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, remaining sugars, kosher salt, and vanilla in a large bowl until well combined.
- Fold the toasted bread cubes and sautéed apple mixture into the custard until evenly coated.
- Butter an 8x11-inch baking dish and pour the mixture in. Allow to absorb for 10-15 minutes.
- Drizzle reserved melted butter over the top and bake for 45-50 minutes until custard is set and top is golden.
- Cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with ice cream or crème fraiche.