Description

Bread pudding is a beloved classic dessert that has stood the test of time. Rooted in the tradition of making the most out of day-old bread, this humble yet delicious dish transforms simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece. The rich custard seeps into the bread, creating a soft, creamy texture, while the edges crisp to a delightful golden brown. When topped with a smooth vanilla sauce, it becomes a dessert that warms both the heart and the soul. This recipe for Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce brings all the nostalgia of this traditional treat to your kitchen, allowing you to savor the rich flavors and textures that have made it a family favorite for generations.

Ingredients

• For the Bread Pudding:
• 4 cups of day-old bread, cubed (French or Italian bread works best)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• For the Vanilla Sauce:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening)

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8x8-inch baking dish.
2. Place cubed bread in a large bowl and set aside.
3. Warm milk in a saucepan over medium heat until just shy of boiling, then remove from heat.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Slowly pour the warmed milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
6. Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and fold in raisins if desired. Let sit for 10 minutes.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
8. While baking, make the vanilla sauce by heating heavy cream and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly.
9. Once simmering, add butter and vanilla extract. Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl and add to the sauce, stirring until thickened.
10. Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly.
11. After the bread pudding cools for a few minutes, drizzle the warm vanilla sauce over servings.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the vanilla sauce. The subtle warmth of the alcohol complements the sweetness of the bread pudding beautifully, making it perfect for a special occasion. Alternatively, you can also add a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the pudding for added texture and richness.

Old-fashioned bread pudding is a true testament to the magic that can be made with simple, everyday ingredients. This dessert not only tastes incredible but also brings with it a sense of nostalgia that makes every bite feel like home. The creamy custard, the tender bread, and the luxurious vanilla sauce come together to create a dessert that’s both hearty and elegant. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert after a family dinner or making it for a special holiday occasion, this bread pudding is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste by using up stale bread. With just a few basic ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.