Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

There’s something undeniably special about Grandma’s old-fashioned bread pudding with vanilla sauce. The aroma, the warmth, and the decadent taste of each spoonful make it a classic comfort dessert that’s hard to beat. Passed down through generations, this timeless dessert utilizes simple, budget-friendly ingredients, often transforming leftover bread into a culinary delight. If you’re craving a sweet treat that brings back childhood memories, bread pudding with a creamy vanilla sauce is perfect for you.

In this recipe, we’ll explore the steps to create a soft, custard-like bread pudding topped with a silky vanilla sauce that complements every bite. For those looking to elevate their baking skills, learning the Origins of Bread Pudding can provide insight into the dessert’s fascinating history. Not only is it a comforting addition to your dessert collection, but it also serves as a fantastic way to repurpose leftover bread, preventing food waste in a delicious way.

With a combination of rustic ingredients, bread pudding is a nostalgic treat that brings us back to family gatherings and holidays around the dining table. To ensure you achieve the perfect pudding texture, we’ve included step-by-step instructions and tips on enhancing its flavor. If you’re interested in making a sauce that complements bread pudding, consider these tips for vanilla sauce perfection, which ensure a smooth and delicious result.

Ingredients for Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

To prepare this rich and indulgent dessert, gather the following ingredients. These proportions are suitable for serving approximately six people, and the recipe can be easily adjusted based on your preferred servings.

For the Bread Pudding:

• 4 cups of day-old bread, cubed (sourdough, French, or brioche recommended)
• 2 cups of whole milk or any milk alternative
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
• 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• 1 cup of heavy cream or whole milk
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1/4 cup of butter
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Tools Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork for mixing
• 8×8-inch baking dish (or similar size)
• Medium saucepan for vanilla sauce preparation

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease the baking dish with a small amount of butter.
3. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Custard

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and spices until well combined.
2. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring that each piece is coated.
3. Allow the bread to sit for 10–15 minutes, soaking up the custard for a moist and custardy texture.

Step 3: Bake

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the pudding is set, and the top is golden brown.
3. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Crafting the Vanilla Sauce

While the bread pudding bakes, you can prepare the vanilla sauce. This sweet, creamy topping is the perfect partner for bread pudding, adding a layer of flavor and a touch of elegance.

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream, sugar, and butter, stirring frequently until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
2. Once the mixture begins to bubble slightly, reduce the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
3. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and pour over the warm bread pudding before serving.

Serving and Enhancements

Bread pudding is best served warm. Top with a generous drizzle of vanilla sauce, and for added indulgence, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Garnishes like toasted nuts, powdered sugar, or a dash of cinnamon add an extra visual and flavor appeal.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you may want to try related desserts on our site, such as the Kentucky Butter Cake or French Toast Casserole Muffins, which share similar comforting flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

For leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.

Freezing

If you wish to freeze bread pudding, wrap portions in plastic wrap and place them in freezer-safe bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What bread is best for bread pudding?
Old-fashioned bread pudding benefits from dense, slightly stale bread. French bread, brioche, and sourdough absorb custard well, creating a rich texture.

2. Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pudding, store it in the fridge, and bake when needed.

3. How long does bread pudding last?
It lasts for about 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

4. What other toppings work with vanilla sauce?
Caramel, chocolate, or fruit sauces also pair beautifully with bread pudding.