Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Bread Pudding
Place bread cubes in the dish. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir in raisins (if using). Pour custard over bread, pressing gently to soak. Drizzle with melted butter.
Step 3: Bake the Pudding
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean.
Step 4: Make the Vanilla Sauce
While pudding bakes, make the sauce. In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until simmering. Whisk cornstarch with a little water until smooth; stir into the sauce. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve warm bread pudding topped with vanilla sauce.
Cook’s Notes
- Bread: Day-old bread works best! French bread, brioche, or challah are excellent choices.
- Soaking: For extra flavor, let bread soak in custard for 10-15 minutes before baking.
- Raisins: Feel free to omit or substitute with dried cranberries or chopped nuts.
Variations
Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding
Use 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips instead of raisins.
Bourbon Vanilla Sauce
Add 1 tablespoon bourbon to the vanilla sauce for extra depth.
Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding
Add 1 cup peeled and chopped apples to the bread mixture.
Serving Suggestions
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream & cinnamon
- Fresh berries
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make it Ahead?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate, covered, for up to 12 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to baking time.
Storing Leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Freezing?
Yes! Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
This Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a timeless classic – easy, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!
Did you make this? Share your experience in the comments!
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