Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a delightful, comforting dessert that combines the rich flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. The process of creating this dessert involves several steps, including preparing the bread pudding and the vanilla sauce, and baking the dish to perfection.
Ingredients
For Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups stale bread: Torn into small pieces, this forms the base of the pudding.
- 2 cups milk: Helps to moisten and soften the bread.
- 3 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the pudding.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Gives a rich flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm spice note.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with its warm, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional): Adds a sweet, fruity element.
For Vanilla Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Forms the base of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a delicate vanilla flavor.
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare Bread Pudding:
- Soak Bread: Combine torn bread pieces and milk in a large mixing bowl. Let it soak for about 10 minutes.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Combine Wet and Soaked Bread: Pour the wet ingredients over the soaked bread. Mix well. Fold in raisins or currants if using.
Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Prepare Vanilla Sauce:
- Cook Sauce Ingredients: In a saucepan, melt butter, stir in sugar and heavy cream. Cook until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Serve:
- Let the bread pudding cool slightly after baking.
- Cut into squares and serve warm, drizzled with the homemade vanilla sauce.
Enjoy the Comforting Dessert:
- Indulge in this warm, comforting dessert, perfect for any occasion.
- Customize with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for added delight.
Enjoy your homemade Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce!