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Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

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Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a classic, comforting dessert featuring warm, custard-soaked bread baked to golden perfection and topped with a creamy, sweet vanilla sauce. This simple, old-fashioned recipe is perfect for cozy nights or holiday gatherings!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bread Pudding:

  • 6 cups (350g) day-old bread, cubed (French bread, brioche, or challah)
  • 4 cups (960ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (80g) raisins (optional)

For the Vanilla Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Prepare the Bread Pudding:

    • Place the cubed bread in the greased baking dish.
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
    • Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down to ensure it soaks up the custard.
    • Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb.
  • Add the Raisins (Optional):

    • Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the bread mixture if using, pressing them in slightly.
  • Bake:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
  • Make the Vanilla Sauce:

    • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Add the sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk constantly until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • Serve:

    • Spoon the warm bread pudding into bowls and drizzle with the vanilla sauce. Serve warm!

Notes

  • Make it richer: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
  • Add fruit: Mix in chopped apples, berries, or dried cranberries for added flavor.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave and serve with extra vanilla sauce.