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Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Warm Vanilla Sauce

A thick, golden slice of raisin bread pudding generously topped with flowing vanilla custard sauce.

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Make this classic bread pudding using stale bread for a warm, comforting dessert with a soft custard center and golden crust. Serve it topped with homemade vanilla sauce for a truly satisfying treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups stale bread cubes (French bread or brioche work well)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
  • For the Vanilla Sauce: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle raisins evenly over the bread.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This creates your homemade custard dessert base.
  4. Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid. Let the mixture sit for 15 to 20 minutes to soak completely.
  5. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the pudding is set in the center and the top is golden brown.
  6. While the pudding bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  7. Remove the bread pudding from the oven. Let it cool slightly before serving warm, drizzled generously with the warm vanilla sauce.

Notes

  • Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture; fresh bread can become too mushy.
  • For a New Orleans style twist, add 1/4 cup of bourbon to the custard mixture and use a bourbon sauce instead of vanilla sauce.
  • This recipe is a great way to use leftover bread and makes excellent comfort food dessert.

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