When the crisp air of autumn starts to weave through the trees, I often find myself craving something comforting and warm—something that feels like a hug in dessert form. That’s how I discovered the delightful combination of flavors in my Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding. At first glance, the fusion of tangy sourdough, sweet Granny Smith apples, and the unexpected umami of miso might seem unusual, but trust me when I say it’s a revelation for the taste buds.
Picture this: warm, tender apples nestled in a creamy custard, with the comforting texture of toasted bread that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends alike. Best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraiche, it brings a touch of cozy elegance to any table. Ready to dive into this deliciously unique treat? Let’s get started!
Why is Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding special?
Uniqueness in every bite: This recipe combines the unexpected flavors of sourdough and miso, creating a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding.
Comforting warmth: Perfect for chilly nights, the rich custard wraps around the tart apples, offering pure coziness in dessert form.
Visual appeal: Its golden, caramelized top paired with tender fruit makes it a showstopper on any table.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve this at gatherings, and you’ll leave your guests raving about this unique treat long after it’s gone!
Elevate your dessert game by pairing this pudding with a scoop of ice cream or crème fraiche for a delightful finish.
Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding Ingredients
• To create your cozy dessert experience, gather these delightful ingredients!
For the Pudding
- Sourdough Boule – The base adds tang and texture; any bread can work for different flavors.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Granny Smith Apples – Provides the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness; feel free to swap with any firm apple variety.
- Sugar – Sweetens the pudding; coconut sugar can be used for a healthier alternative.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of caramel flavor; replace with granulated sugar or maple syrup if needed.
- Miso – Introduces umami and depth; opt for white miso for a milder taste.
- Five Spice Powder – Elevates flavor complexity; cinnamon or nutmeg can be used as substitutes.
- Ground Cinnamon – Offers warmth; you can omit it if preferred.
- Apple Cider or Juice – Infuses moisture and flavor; pear juice is a great alternative.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens up the dish; in a pinch, vinegar can work as a substitute.
- Eggs – Provides structure; consider using flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
- Whole Milk – Adds creaminess; almond or oat milk can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
- Heavy Cream – Delivers a rich custard; additional whole milk or a non-dairy cream can be used instead.
- Vanilla Bean Paste/Extract – Imparts a sweet aroma; extract is a fine substitute if the paste isn’t on hand.
- Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness; table salt can be used but adjust the quantity.
- Powdered Sugar – For finishing touches; can be omitted if desired.
Now you have everything you need for your Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding! Prepare to indulge in this heartwarming treat that will surely become a family favorite.
How to Make Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking space. Spread the cubed sourdough on a sheet pan, toasting it for 10-15 minutes until it’s golden brown and fragrant.
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Melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, remove half of the butter and set it aside for later.
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Sauté the apple chunks in the skillet with ¼ cup each of sugar and light brown sugar, along with the miso, five spice powder, and ground cinnamon. Cook this mixture for 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are softened and caramelized.
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Incorporate apple cider and lemon juice into the apple mixture, cooking until thickened, about 1 minute. This will enhance the flavor and moisture!
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Whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, remaining sugars, kosher salt, and vanilla in a large bowl. Stir in the toasted bread and warm apple mixture until evenly combined.
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Butter an 8×11 baking dish with some of your reserved melted butter, and then pour in the bread-apple mixture. Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes—this helps the bread absorb the custard.
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Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top of the pudding. Bake it in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until the custard is set and the top is beautifully golden. Cover it with foil if it starts browning too quickly.
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Cool the pudding for about 10 minutes before slicing. Dust it with powdered sugar, then serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraiche.
Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce for a sweet finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Puddings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the pudding up to 24 hours in advance by combining all the ingredients and storing it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain freshness and prevent any browning. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let it sit for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to take the chill off, then drizzle the reserved melted butter on top and bake as instructed. This make-ahead tip not only simplifies your meal planning but ensures you achieve the same comforting warmth and delicious flavor, making your gatherings effortlessly delightful!
Storage Tips for Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding
- Fridge: Store leftover Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pudding by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Serving Fresh: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the warmth of reheated pudding still brings comfort on chilly nights!
What to Serve with Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding?
When it comes to creating the perfect meal experience, pairing your dessert with complementary flavors can elevate it to new heights.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The silky smoothness of vanilla ice cream balances the warm, spiced flavors of the pudding, adding a delightful creaminess.
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Crème Fraiche: This tangy counterpoint enhances the sweetness of the bread pudding, offering a light, refreshing contrast that makes each bite memorable.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the pudding adds rich sweetness and a touch of elegance, turning a cozy dessert into a showstopper.
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Hot Apple Cider: A steaming mug of spiced apple cider echoes the apple notes in the pudding while providing warmth and comfort, perfect for chilly nights.
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Roasted Nuts: Serving a mix of roasted walnuts or pecans on the side adds a satisfying crunch, balancing the soft texture of the pudding with a nutty flavor.
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Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: This drink pairs perfectly with the spices in the pudding, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia—a truly comforting combination.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the flavors of fall! The coffee’s warm spices complement the pudding while providing a cozy caffeine boost to round out your dessert experience.
Let your taste buds explore these delightful pairings!
Expert Tips for Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding
- Rest Time Importance: Allow the pudding to rest after pouring the mixture into the baking dish. This crucial step helps the bread absorb the custard effectively.
- Choosing the Right Bread: Using a stale or well-toasted sourdough will yield better texture. Avoid overly soft bread that may disintegrate during baking.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Look for a golden brown top and a firm custard set before removing from the oven. Use foil if it browns too quickly to ensure even cooking.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Taste your custard mixture before baking; feel free to add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter pudding, especially if using tart apples.
- Make it Extra Cozy: Enhance your Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding by serving it warm topped with a scoop of ice cream or honey-drizzled crème fraiche for added indulgence.
Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding Variations
Now, let your creativity soar with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
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Different Apples: Swap in Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The mix of tart and sweet adds a delightful surprise!
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Flavorful Bread: Use panettone or brioche instead of sourdough for an extra rich and buttery taste. The slight sweetness of the bread can make this pudding truly irresistible.
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Dried Fruit Boost: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to add chewy texture and bursts of flavor. The dried fruits become soft and succulent as they soak up the custard!
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and added nutritional benefits. This simple addition enhances the texture beautifully!
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Vegan Delight: To make it vegan, swap eggs for flax eggs and replace milk and cream with almond or coconut milk. You’ll unite flavor and compassion in every bite!
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Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cardamom or ginger to give your pudding an aromatic twist. A pinch can transform the warm, cozy essence into something extraordinary!
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some dark chocolate chunks or cocoa nibs for a decadent chocolatey touch. Chocolate and apples are a match made in dessert heaven!
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Caramel Drizzle: Top with a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce right before serving for an indulgently sweet finish. The warm pudding pairs heavenly with gooey caramel.
Embrace these variations, and don’t hesitate to play around! After all, the heart of this Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding is all about comfort and creativity.
Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe apples for this recipe?
When choosing apples, look for firm varieties like Granny Smith with no bruises or dark spots. Fresh apples should have a crisp texture and a pleasant aroma. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, Honeycrisp apples are a great alternative as they hold up well during cooking too.
How do I store leftover Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it is completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which can affect the texture.
Can I freeze Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled pudding tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This method keeps it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my bread pudding is too soggy?
If your pudding turns out too soggy, it might be due to using overly soft bread or not allowing it to rest long enough after mixing. For future reference, ensure that you use stale or well-toasted sourdough and allow it to absorb the custard for at least 10-15 minutes before baking. If it still becomes too moist, check your oven temperature and baking time to ensure it’s set correctly.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
This recipe includes eggs and dairy, which can be allergens. For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream. Additionally, you can replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water equals one egg) for a vegan alternative. Always make sure to double-check ingredient labels for any packaged items to ensure they are allergen-free.
Can my pets eat Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding?
It’s best to keep this recipe away from your pets. Ingredients like sugar and cinnamon can be harmful to animals in larger quantities. If you want to share a special treat with your furry friends, consider giving them a small piece of plain, unsweetened bread instead—always consult your vet about what’s safe!
Sourdough Apple Miso Bread Pudding for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking space. Spread the cubed sourdough on a sheet pan, toasting it for 10-15 minutes until it’s golden brown and fragrant.
- Melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, remove half of the butter and set it aside for later.
- Sauté the apple chunks in the skillet with ¼ cup each of sugar and light brown sugar, along with the miso, five spice powder, and ground cinnamon. Cook this mixture for 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are softened and caramelized.
- Incorporate apple cider and lemon juice into the apple mixture, cooking until thickened, about 1 minute.
- Whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, remaining sugars, kosher salt, and vanilla in a large bowl. Stir in the toasted bread and warm apple mixture until evenly combined.
- Butter an 8x11 baking dish with some of your reserved melted butter, and then pour in the bread-apple mixture. Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top of the pudding. Bake it in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until the custard is set and the top is beautifully golden.
- Cool the pudding for about 10 minutes before slicing. Dust it with powdered sugar, then serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraiche.