Introduction:

Bread pudding is a classic dessert with roots in frugality, transforming leftover or stale bread into a rich, comforting treat. This old-fashioned bread pudding recipe is a nostalgic favorite that combines the simple flavors of eggs, milk, and sugar, elevated with a luscious vanilla sauce. It’s an excellent way to avoid wasting stale bread while creating a delicious dessert for the family. You’ll love the contrast of the slightly crisp top with the soft, custard-like center, finished with a warm and velvety vanilla sauce. Let’s dive into how you can make this timeless dessert at home!

Ingredients:

For the Bread Pudding:

• 8 slices stale bread, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred for richness)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended)
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional for added warmth)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup raisins (optional, but they add a great touch)

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons butter

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches) with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This helps prevent the pudding from sticking to the sides.

Step 2: Prepare the bread

Cut the stale bread slices into cubes (around 1-inch pieces). If your bread isn’t stale yet, you can toast the cubes slightly in the oven for 10 minutes to dry them out. Place the bread cubes into the greased baking dish.

Step 3: Make the custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg (if using), melted butter, and salt. Ensure the mixture is well combined to distribute the flavors evenly.

Step 4: Combine bread and custard

Pour the prepared custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Gently press the bread cubes down with the back of a spoon or spatula so they soak up the custard. Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes to fully absorb.

Step 5: Add raisins (optional)

If you’re using raisins, sprinkle them over the soaked bread mixture. Gently fold them into the pudding so they are evenly distributed. Raisins will plump up during baking and add delightful bursts of sweetness.

Step 6: 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 knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly crispy while the inside remains soft and custardy.

Step 7: Make the vanilla sauce

While the pudding bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to thicken (about 5-7 minutes). Once thickened, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. The sauce should be smooth and velvety. Set aside.

Step 8: Serve

Once the bread pudding is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Serve warm, drizzled generously with the vanilla sauce. For an extra indulgent touch, you can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Cooking Note:

• The custard mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. This allows the flavors to deepen before combining with the bread.
• If you like a slightly crispier texture, you can broil the top of the bread pudding for 2-3 minutes after it has baked to perfection. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

Serving Suggestions:

• Bread pudding is best served warm with the rich vanilla sauce poured over the top.
• For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some powdered sugar or cinnamon on top just before serving.
• It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a dusting of fresh nutmeg.

Tips:

1. Stale bread is key: The drier the bread, the better it will soak up the custard. If you don’t have stale bread, cut fresh bread into cubes and bake in the oven for 10 minutes to dry them out.
2. Variations: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
3. Bread types: You can use any bread for this recipe, including French bread, brioche, challah, or even leftover dinner rolls. Each will impart a different texture and taste.
4. Sauce substitutes: If you’re short on time, you can skip the homemade vanilla sauce and use store-bought custard or even a caramel sauce.
5. Make it your own: To add a bit more sophistication, try adding a splash of rum or bourbon to the vanilla sauce.

Prep Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 45-50 minutes

Total Time:

• 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 8g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g

Conclusion:

This Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a timeless dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious. It’s perfect for family gatherings or as a sweet treat at the end of a cozy meal. With its soft, custard-like interior and slightly crispy top, paired with a rich, creamy vanilla sauce, this dessert is pure comfort on a plate. The next time you have leftover bread, don’t throw it away—transform it into something extraordinary!

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