Description
If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a classic recipe you need to try. Combining tender, custard-soaked bread with a luscious vanilla sauce, this dessert is the epitome of comfort food. Perfect for special occasions or as a cozy weeknight treat, this recipe brings the charm of grandma’s kitchen straight to your table.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Bread Pudding
- 4 cups (8 slices) cubed white bread
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs, slightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Ingredients for Vanilla Sauce
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla
Instructions
How to Make Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and raisins. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over medium heat until the butter melts (4 to 7 minutes). Pour this warm mixture over the bread and let it stand for 10 minutes to soak. Add the slightly beaten eggs, sugar, vanilla, and ground nutmeg to the soaked bread mixture, stirring well. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set.
How to Make the Vanilla Sauce
To make the vanilla sauce, combine the butter, sugar, brown sugar, and heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and comes to a full boil (about 5 to 8 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Warm and Fresh: For the best experience, serve the bread pudding warm. The soft, custardy texture pairs perfectly with the rich vanilla sauce.
- Toppings: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the dessert. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon can add an elegant touch.
- Portion Sizes: Serve in individual dessert bowls or ramekins for a more sophisticated presentation.
- Pairings: Pair this dessert with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a complete and satisfying treat.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the vanilla sauce in a separate container to preserve its texture and flavor.
- Freezing: Bread pudding freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the bread pudding in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes. For the vanilla sauce, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to avoid separation.
- Avoid Overheating: Be cautious not to overheat the sauce, as it can lose its smooth consistency.
