Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce: A Cozy Classic Dessert
Introduction
Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a timeless dessert that brings back cozy, nostalgic flavors. Made with simple ingredients like day-old bread, a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, and a rich vanilla sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Each warm bite of bread pudding, drizzled with creamy vanilla sauce, makes for a comforting and delicious treat.
Why Make This Recipe
A Classic, Comforting Dessert: Bread pudding is beloved for its warm, custard-like texture and comforting flavors, especially when topped with vanilla sauce.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dessert is a crowd-pleaser and ideal for family gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion.
Quick and Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is easy for all skill levels, giving you a delicious homemade dessert without much fuss.
How to Make Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (white or brioche)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ cup raisins or currants (optional)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Vanilla Sauce:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-4 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Directions
1. Prepare the Bread Pudding:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed bread and drizzle with the melted butter, tossing to coat evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins (if using).
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Press down gently to ensure all bread pieces are soaked. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
- Tip: Letting the bread sit in the custard mixture helps to achieve a soft, custardy texture.
2. Bake the Bread Pudding:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Prepare the Vanilla Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, and gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a pourable sauce consistency.
- Tip: Adjust the milk quantity based on how thick or thin you’d like the sauce.
4. Serve:
- Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm, drizzled generously with vanilla sauce.
- Tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh berries for added visual appeal.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Serve this bread pudding warm, topped with a drizzle of vanilla sauce. For added elegance, garnish with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even a glass of milk.
How to Store Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the vanilla sauce separate for best results.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave for a quick, cozy dessert. Reheat the vanilla sauce on the stovetop or microwave, stirring until smooth.
Tips to Make Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
- Use Stale Bread: Day-old bread works best for soaking up the custard. If your bread is fresh, toast it briefly to dry it out.
- Add Raisins for Extra Flavor: While optional, raisins or currants add a sweet burst of flavor to each bite.
- Don’t Skip the Sauce: The vanilla sauce adds a rich, creamy layer that complements the pudding perfectly.
Variations
- Fruit and Nut Mix: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, along with dried fruits like cranberries or apricots.
- Chocolate Twist: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the bread before pouring the custard mixture for a chocolatey variation.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Use cinnamon bread or add a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweeter, spiced flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Yes! While white or brioche bread works best, you can also use challah, French bread, or any sturdy bread that can soak up the custard.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Substitute dairy-free milk and cream for the custard, and use a vegan butter alternative in the vanilla sauce.
Q: Can I freeze bread pudding?
A: Yes, freeze individual portions in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a classic dessert that combines warm, cozy flavors with a creamy, delicious sauce. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread and create something truly comforting and delightful. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in, this bread pudding is a treat everyone will love. Enjoy every warm, flavorful bite
Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Ingredients
- For the Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread white or brioche
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ cup raisins or currants optional
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- For the Vanilla Sauce:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-4 tbsp milk adjust for desired consistency
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Pudding:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed bread and drizzle with the melted butter, tossing to coat evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins (if using).
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Press down gently to ensure all bread pieces are soaked. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
- Tip: Letting the bread sit in the custard mixture helps to achieve a soft, custardy texture.
- Bake the Bread Pudding:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Vanilla Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, and gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a pourable sauce consistency.
- Tip: Adjust the milk quantity based on how thick or thin you’d like the sauce.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm, drizzled generously with vanilla sauce.
- Tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh berries for added visual appeal.
First time making Bread Pudding and it was easy and good!!!
That’s awesome! 🎉 So glad to hear it was a hit on your first try! Bread pudding is such a comforting treat, right?