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Apple, Cheddar & Bacon Bread Pudding

Source of Recipe

"Taste of Home: Make It Freeze It" by editors at Taste of Home


Recipe Introduction

"I first had this dish at a bridal brunch many years ago. It was so delicious that I created my own version, and here's the result. Now I make it all the time!"

List of Ingredients

â—¦ 3 tablespoons butter
â—¦ 2 medium apples, peeled and chopped
â—¦ ¼ cup packed brown sugar
â—¦ 6 cups cubed day-old French bread
â—¦ 1 pound bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
â—¦ 1 ½ cups (6 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
â—¦ 5 large eggs
â—¦ 2 ¼ cups milk
â—¦ ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
â—¦ ¼ teaspoon salt

Syrup:
â—¦ 1 cup maple syrup
â—¦ ½ cup chopped walnuts


Recipe

In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add apples; cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Reduce heat to medium-low; stir in brown sugar. Cook, uncovered, 8 to 10 minutes or until apples are tender, stirring occasionally. Cool completely.

In a greased 8-inch square baking dish, layer half of each of the following: bread, bacon, apples and cheese. Repeat the layers. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cinnamon and salt; pour over the top. Refrigerate dish, covered, for several hours or overnight.

Preheat oven to 350° F. Remove bread pudding from refrigerator; uncover and let stand while oven heats. Bake 45 to 55 minutes or until puffed, golden and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand 15 minutes before serving.

In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave syrup and walnuts until warmed, stirring once. Serve with bread pudding.

Makes 9 servings


• Freeze Option:
After assembling, cover and freeze bread pudding. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350° F. Bake and serve bread pudding with syrup as directed.