Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

There’s nothing like the comforting flavors of Grandma’s kitchen, and this Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce delivers just that. With its soft, sweet bread base and a luscious vanilla sauce drizzled on top, this nostalgic dessert is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any time you crave a little comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A warm, nostalgic dessert that reminds you of childhood treats.
• Uses simple pantry staples, making it budget-friendly and convenient.
• The vanilla sauce adds an indulgent, velvety finish to every bite.
• A versatile dish that can be customized with add-ins like nuts or chocolate.
• Perfect for using up day-old bread, reducing food waste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bread Pudding:

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread
• 3 cups milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup raisins

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

Make the Bread Pudding:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Bread Base: Arrange the cubed bread evenly in the greased dish.
3. Heat the Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted. Pour this mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are evenly soaked.
4. Make the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon. Pour the custard over the bread and milk mixture. Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the top.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Make the Vanilla Sauce:

1. While the bread pudding bakes, combine the sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Serve:

Drizzle the warm vanilla sauce over the bread pudding before serving. Enjoy it warm for the best taste and texture.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Add Nuts: Toss in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Fruit Options: Substitute or add dried cranberries, cherries, or diced apples for variety.
• Chocolate Twist: Mix in ½ cup chocolate chips for a decadent upgrade.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for extra warmth.
• Caramel Sauce: Swap the vanilla sauce for caramel if you prefer a richer topping.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions of bread pudding (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.

FAQs

1. What type of bread works best for bread pudding?

Day-old bread with a sturdy texture, like French bread, brioche, or challah, works best. Avoid overly soft bread.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bread pudding and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh before serving.

3. Can I skip the raisins?

Of course! You can leave them out or replace them with other dried fruits or chocolate chips.

4. Can I use low-fat milk?

Yes, but whole milk or cream will result in a richer texture.

5. How do I prevent the bread pudding from being soggy?

Ensure you bake it long enough for the custard to set and avoid over-soaking the bread.

6. Can I use a different sauce?

Absolutely! Caramel, butterscotch, or even a whiskey sauce are great alternatives.

7. Is this dessert gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.

8. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, adjust the sugar in the custard and sauce to suit your taste.

9. Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, almond or oat milk can be substituted for a dairy-free version. Use vegan butter and coconut cream for the sauce.

10. Should the sauce be served warm or cold?

The vanilla sauce is best served warm to complement the bread pudding.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a dessert that warms the heart and soul. Its combination of tender bread, sweet custard, and rich vanilla sauce makes it an unforgettable treat. Perfect for gatherings or as a comforting indulgence, this classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

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