Old-Fashioned Baked Apple Pudding Recipe | Simple Apple Dessert with Fresh Apples | Quick Apple Desserts & Best Apple Treats
Apple pudding is a classic baked dessert made with tender apples and a buttery, crumbly topping. It is easy to prepare, uses basic pantry ingredients, and comes together without complicated steps. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a simple apple dessert that delivers warm flavor and comforting texture in every bite.

Whether served warm straight from the oven or cooled and sliced, this apple pudding is a dependable option for family gatherings, casual dinners, or anytime fresh apples need to be used up. It is a timeless dessert that feels familiar, comforting, and easy to make at home.
Ingredients
Apple Pudding Layer
- 5 to 6 cups tart apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (instead of all purpose flour)
- 1/2 cup white sugar or raw sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder
Topping
- 3/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prep the pan
Set your oven to 350°F and allow it to fully preheat. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking pan using butter or cooking spray. Set the pan aside so it is ready once the apples are mixed.
Step 2: Peel and dice the apples
Wash the apples well, then peel them completely. Remove the cores and cut the apples into small, even cubes. Keeping the pieces similar in size helps the apples cook evenly while baking.
Step 3: Coat the apples

Place the diced apples into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the cornstarch, cinnamon powder and sugar over the apples. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated. The mixture should look slightly dry but well covered.
Step 4: Add apples to the baking dish

Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared baking pan. Spread the apples out into an even layer so they bake evenly and soften at the same time.
Step 5: Mix the dry topping ingredients
In a medium bowl, add the all purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir until all the dry ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 6: Add the butter to the topping

Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. Using a fork, pastry cutter, or clean hands, blend the butter into the mixture until it becomes crumbly. The topping should hold together when squeezed but still break apart easily.
Step 7: Spread the topping over the apples

Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the apples in the baking dish. Make sure the apples are fully covered for the best texture and flavor once baked.
Step 8: Bake the apple pudding

Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 9: Cool slightly before serving
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the apple pudding to cool for about 10 minutes. This helps the filling thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.
Step 10: Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature. This apple pudding is delicious on its own or paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
FAQs About Baked Apple Pudding
Can I use any type of apple for this pudding?
Yes! I usually go for sweet-tart apples like Fuji or Gala because they cook down nicely and give that perfect flavor. But honestly, any apple works. Just taste your mix before adding sugar, since some apples are sweeter than others.
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Totally! You can make it a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just store it in the fridge and warm it up a bit before serving if you like it warm.
How long does this pudding last?
In the fridge, it keeps well for about 2-3 days.
Can I add toppings?
Absolutely! A sprinkle of cinnamon, a little drizzle of caramel, or even some whipped cream makes it extra special.
Baked Apple Pudding Recipe Card

Baked Apple Pudding
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking pan. Peel and dice the apples into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, toss the apples with cornstarch and sugar until evenly coated. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the topping looks crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples, covering them completely.
- Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden and the apples are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Tips
- For softer apples: Cover the baking dish loosely with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then uncover and finish baking.
- Even baking: Cut the apples into similar-sized pieces so they soften at the same time.
- Extra crisp topping: If you like a crunchier top, bake for an extra 5 minutes or place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- Prevent overflow: Place the baking dish on a baking sheet in case the apples release extra juice while baking.
- Best pan size: A 9×13 pan works best to keep the layers even and cook the apples thoroughly.
Variations
- Add warm spices: Mix 1 teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg into the apple layer for extra flavor.
- Use different apples: Tart apples work best, but a mix of tart and sweet apples adds great balance.
- Nutty topping: Stir 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the topping for added texture.
- Sweeter version: Increase the sugar in the apple layer by 2–3 tablespoons if using very tart apples.
This apple pudding is an easy, reliable dessert that highlights the natural flavor of baked apples with a crisp, buttery topping. It comes together with minimal prep and simple ingredients, making it a great option for both everyday desserts and casual gatherings. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this recipe delivers consistent results and classic apple flavor every time.
