Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 egg yolk (to thicken the sauce)

How to Make Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Pudding

To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your stale bread and cut it into cubes—this is a great way to use up leftover bread that might otherwise go to waste. You’ll need about 6 cups of bread cubes, which will absorb the custard mixture, creating the heart of the bread pudding.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine whole milk, heavy cream, and eggs. Whisk until smooth. Add in sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.

If you’re using raisins or any other dried fruit, sprinkle them over the bread cubes in a baking dish. You can also mix them into the custard for an even distribution. Butter the baking dish to prevent the pudding from sticking.

Step 2: Assemble the Pudding

Now, pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Gently press the bread down to ensure it soaks up the liquid. If you have time, let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes so the bread fully absorbs the custard. This will give you a rich, creamy texture when it bakes.

Step 3: Bake the Bread Pudding

Once the bread has soaked up the custard, place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. You can test doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean when the pudding is fully baked.

While the pudding is baking, the house will start to smell amazing, filling your kitchen with the comforting scent of cinnamon and vanilla.

Step 4: Prepare the Vanilla Sauce

While the bread pudding is baking, you can make the vanilla sauce to accompany it. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream. Stir the mixture constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.

In a separate small bowl, beat the egg yolk. Once the butter mixture is hot but not boiling, gradually whisk in the egg yolk to avoid scrambling. Continue to cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Serve the Bread Pudding

Once the bread pudding has finished baking, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and plate, then pour a generous amount of the vanilla sauce over the top. You can also serve the sauce on the side for those who prefer to drizzle it themselves.

Why This Recipe is a Classic:

1. Comforting and Hearty: Bread pudding is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, satisfying, and reminds us of the warmth of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.
2. Easy to Make: Despite its reputation as a fancy dessert, bread pudding is incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a low-maintenance yet delicious treat.
3. Affordable Ingredients: Bread pudding is an affordable dessert that requires minimal ingredients, making it a great choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or when you’re craving something sweet without breaking the bank.
4. Versatile: This recipe is customizable. Add nuts, fruits, or even a dash of rum or bourbon to give it a unique twist. You can also adjust the sweetness based on your taste.

Tips for Success:

• Stale Bread is Best: Bread pudding works best with bread that is a little stale or dried out. This helps the bread absorb the custard and achieve that soft, custardy interior.
• Let it Sit: If you have time, let the bread soak in the custard for at least 15 minutes before baking. This ensures every bite is rich and creamy.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bread pudding while it’s baking. Overbaking can result in a dry pudding, so make sure it’s golden brown but still soft in the center.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a dessert that has stood the test of time, and for good reason. It’s comforting, easy to make, and full of nostalgic flavors. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover bread or just craving a classic dessert, this bread pudding is the perfect choice. The creamy vanilla sauce takes it over the top, making it a memorable treat that everyone will enjoy.

So next time you’re in the mood for a sweet, homemade treat, try this recipe and experience the magic of a family favorite that’s been loved for generations.