Name: Apple Cider Donut Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 apple cider donuts, cut into 1-inch pieces; 4 large eggs; 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

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This Apple Cider Donut Bread Pudding captures the cozy flavors of fall in every bite. Made with day-old apple cider donuts, warm spices, and a rich custard base, this dessert is simple to prepare and perfect for sharing. It transforms leftover pastries into a comforting treat with a crisp golden top and a soft, custardy center.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect way to use day-old apple cider donuts without letting them go to waste. The donuts soak up a creamy, spiced custard mixture that bakes into a rich and satisfying dessert.

You’ll love how easy it is to make since the donuts are already prepared. The warm pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon sugar topping create a true fall flavor. It’s ideal for holiday gatherings, weekend brunch, or a cozy dessert after dinner.

The texture is irresistible—crispy and caramelized on top while soft and tender underneath. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 apple cider donuts, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 large eggs
3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the cinnamon sugar topping:
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Directions

If your donuts are fresh, cut them into 1-inch pieces and leave them out on a baking sheet for 24–48 hours to dry slightly. If already day-old, proceed to the next step.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease an 8×10-inch baking dish.
Place the donut pieces evenly into the prepared baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add the heavy whipping cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and baking soda. Whisk thoroughly until fully combined.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the donut pieces. Using clean hands or the back of a spoon, gently press the donuts down to ensure they soak up the liquid.
Let the mixture sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
While baking, mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon.
After 35 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top, and return to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Soaking Time: 15–20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Variations

Add chopped apples between the donut layers for extra texture and fresh apple flavor.

Stir in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.

Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for added sweetness.

Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream if you prefer a slightly lighter texture.

Add a tablespoon of apple cider to the custard mixture for an even stronger apple flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat individual portions, microwave for 30–45 seconds until warmed through.

To reheat a larger portion, cover with foil and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10–15 minutes.

You can freeze the bread pudding tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use regular glazed donuts instead of apple cider donuts?

Yes, but the flavor will be different. Apple cider donuts provide the signature fall taste, while glazed donuts will result in a sweeter, more neutral flavor.

Do the donuts need to be stale?

Slightly stale donuts work best because they absorb the custard without becoming overly soggy. If using fresh donuts, let them dry out first.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh the next day for best results.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or additional whole milk, though the texture may be slightly less rich.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp, and the center should be set but still soft.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute plant-based milk and cream alternatives. Choose full-fat options for best texture.

What size baking dish works best?

An 8×10-inch baking dish works well. A similar-sized dish such as 9×9 inches can also be used.

Can I add fruit to this recipe?

Yes. Chopped apples or pears make excellent additions and enhance the fall flavor.

Should I serve this warm or cold?

It is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you may reduce each sugar amount slightly if you prefer a less sweet dessert, especially if your donuts are already very sweet.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Donut Bread Pudding is a simple yet comforting dessert that celebrates the flavors of fall. With warm spices, a rich custard base, and a crisp cinnamon sugar topping, it turns leftover donuts into something truly special. Whether served at brunch, during the holidays, or as a cozy weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.