IN THE TEST KITCHEN – Savoury Ambrosia Apple Bread Pudding

There are many recipes that include Ambrosia apples. This year, we are heading into the test kitchen and developing some unique creations. We’ll report on the results of experimentation, and include the recipes.

This one was inspired by a bread pudding that we had over the holidays. Since we had  some leftover focaccia bread on hand, ”Why not try a savoury version?” we thought. 

Ingredients:

• 4 eggs
• 1 c milk
• 1/2 Ambrosia apple
• 3 oz white cheddar
• 6 slices maple bacon 
• 1/2 small onion
• 5” square of focaccia bread
• Rosemary and thyme
• Salt and pepper

Method:

Preheat oven to 350F.

Cut the bacon into small pieces and cook. Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside. Drain the fat from the pan, leaving a little. Add the onion, and cook until translucent. 

Beat the eggs and add the milk. Cut the apples and cheddar into small cubes. Add to the egg mixture with the onions and the bacon. Rip the focaccia into small pieces and add to the mixture with most of the herbs and seasoning (reserve a bit for the top). 

Pour into a greased dish, sprinkle the remaining herbs and seasoning on top, and bake for 45-60 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with sliced Ambrosia apples.

Enjoy!

The final verdict: We really enjoyed this dish; it was delicious, and quite filling. The Ambrosia apples added a nice little crunch, and the bacon and cheddar were a perfect complement.  Although we used some leftover focaccia bread that was on hand, any bread would work, and a crustier maybe even better. We’d definitely try this again.

We’d love to hear about your Ambrosia experiments: be sure to tag us  #Ambrosiaapples…