Name: Fireball Apple Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 10 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14 ounces brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes; 3 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup Fireball cinnamon whiskey; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 4 tablespoons salted butter, cut into 1 tablespoon pats; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 4 large eggs, well beaten; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup salted butter; 1/4 cup Fireball cinnamon whiskey

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 15 reviews

If you love cozy, comforting desserts with a little spicy kick, the Fireball Apple Bread Pudding Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This delightfully rich and warm bread pudding blends the sweetness of juicy Granny Smith apples, the buttery softness of brioche bread, and a spirited splash of Fireball cinnamon whiskey that awakens every bite with a memorable zing. It’s a luscious treat that strikes the perfect balance between homey and festive, making it a wonderful centerpiece for both casual family dinners and special gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be dreaming about it all year long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows all the ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface, ready for a recipe. At the top center, there is a white bowl filled with golden-brown brioche bread cubes. To the right of the bowl, there are small white bowls containing salted butter, cinnamon powder, heavy cream, and brown sugar arranged from top to bottom. Below them are separate white dishes holding sugar and vanilla extract. Near the center, a white bowl holds four white eggs. On the left side, there is a large bottle of Fireball cinnamon whisky standing upright. At the bottom left, a clear glass measuring cup is filled with whole milk. On the bottom right, two bright green Granny Smith apples rest side by side. The ingredients are spaced evenly with clear labels above or next to each item, all placed on the white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the secret to nailing this recipe every single time. Each component plays a vital role: the bread absorbs the custard’s rich flavors, the Fireball whiskey adds that signature cinnamon warmth, and the apples bring just the right amount of tartness to brighten the dish.

14 ounces brioche bread: Soft and buttery, perfect for soaking up the custard mixture without falling apart.
3 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps create that luscious custard base.
1/2 cup Fireball cinnamon whiskey: Infuses the pudding with delicious cinnamon spice and warmth.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances flavors and contributes to the sweetness of the custard.
1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed): Adds a subtle depth and molasses note.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Enhances the apple and whiskey flavors with extra spice.
4 tablespoons salted butter (cut into 1 tbsp pats): Provides richness and silky texture.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complements the other flavors beautifully.
3 cups Granny Smith apples (peeled and cored): Tart and crisp apples bring fresh brightness.
4 large eggs (well beaten): Key to setting the custard and binding the pudding.
1 cup granulated sugar: Used for the decadent sauce that tops the bread pudding.
1/3 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and silky smooth.
1/2 cup salted butter: Adds a luxurious mouthfeel to the sauce.
1/4 cup Fireball cinnamon whiskey: Finishes the sauce with a spicy, boozy kick.

How to Make Fireball Apple Bread Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

The night before you plan to bake, cut the brioche into one-inch cubes and arrange them on a sheet tray. Placing them in a cold oven overnight helps to dry the bread out perfectly so it absorbs the custard just right without becoming soggy. This easy step sets the foundation for the ultimate texture.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

Begin by warming the milk, Fireball cinnamon whiskey, sugars, and cinnamon together in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugars dissolve, about five minutes. Then, add the butter, stirring until melted before removing from the heat. Vanilla extract goes in last, infusing the custard with gentle floral notes that harmonize beautifully with the Fireball’s spice.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Transfer the dried bread cubes into a large bowl and pour the warm milk mixture over them. Stir gently to coat all the cubes, then let this soak at room temperature for 30 minutes. This resting time allows the bread to soak up all those wonderful flavors, creating a custardy base with every bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9-inch by 13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 5: Add Apples and Eggs

Dice your peeled Granny Smith apples and fold them into the bowl along with the well-beaten eggs. This adds a delightful tart freshness and helps the pudding set. Combine everything thoroughly, ensuring the eggs and apples are evenly distributed throughout the soaked bread.

Step 6: Bake the Pudding

Pour the bread pudding mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges start to pull away from the sides. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, signaling that your pudding is perfectly cooked. Allow it to cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Prepare the Fireball Sauce

While the pudding rests, it’s time to prepare the sweet and spicy sauce. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and butter over medium heat. Stir consistently until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves, about five minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup of Fireball whiskey. This sauce is the perfect finishing touch, bringing a luscious, boozy glaze to the dish.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the warm bread pudding into 15 generous squares and drizzle each with a spoonful of that irresistible Fireball sauce. This final step turns a simple dessert into a showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Serve Fireball Apple Bread Pudding Recipe

The image shows a rectangular white baking dish filled with a baked bread pudding that has a golden brown crust on top. The pudding is made of multiple layers of soft, browned bread pieces mixed with chunks of pale yellow apples evenly spread throughout. The top layer is slightly crispy and browned with visible pockets of soft bread and apple pieces. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream adds a lovely contrast to the spicy warmth of the Fireball Apple Bread Pudding Recipe. For crunch, toss on some toasted pecans or walnuts that enhance the texture and nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve the bread pudding alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small bowl of cinnamon-spiced crème fraîche. Both complement the pudding’s flavors beautifully and offer cooling relief from its warm, fiery character.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, bake the bread pudding in individual ramekins and drizzle the sauce at the table. Alternatively, top with caramelized apple slices arranged like petals for an elegant touch that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining its moist, custardy texture.

Freezing

This Fireball Apple Bread Pudding Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place them in freezer-safe bags. Frozen bread pudding stays fresh for up to 2 months, making it a convenient dessert to prepare in advance.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the pudding from becoming too soggy; the oven helps retain that perfect contrast of custardy inside and lightly crisp top.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its buttery texture, challah or a sturdy white bread can work well. Just avoid breads that are too dense or whole grain, as they won’t soak up the custard as evenly.

Is Fireball cinnamon whiskey necessary?

Fireball lends a unique spicy cinnamon flavor that really defines this recipe. If you can’t find it, a cinnamon-flavored liqueur or a teaspoon of ground cinnamon added separately can be substituted, though the signature fiery warmth may be less pronounced.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can swap the whole milk and heavy cream for your favorite plant-based alternatives, and replace butter with dairy-free margarine. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

How tart should the apples be?

Using tart apples like Granny Smith helps balance the sweetness of the pudding and Fireball sauce perfectly. Sweet apples may cause the dish to taste overly sugary.

Can I prepare this recipe faster if I don’t have overnight time?

While drying the bread overnight yields the best texture, you can speed up the process by toasting the cubes in a 300-degree oven for 15–20 minutes until dry and slightly crisp.

Final Thoughts

This Fireball Apple Bread Pudding Recipe is a heartwarming dessert that will become a new staple whenever you want something extra special. With its incredible blend of cozy spices, rich custard, and that bold Fireball punch, it’s a surefire winner for family dinners or holiday celebrations. I can’t wait for you to taste it and make it your own favorite indulgence.