Prep Time: ~15 minutes | Bake Time: ~45–50 minutes | Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes | Yield: ~8–10 servings
Introduction
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a classic, comforting dessert featuring soft, custardy bread baked with warm spices and rich vanilla sauce poured over every slice. It’s simple, nostalgic, and perfect for fall or anytime you want a cozy homemade dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Warm, soft texture with rich custard flavor
- Classic vanilla sauce adds extra indulgence
- Great for holidays, cozy dinners, or sweet endings
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread Pudding
- Stale or day-old bread (about 8–10 cups cubed)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional add-ins: raisins, chopped nuts, chocolate chips
For the Vanilla Sauce
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cups milk (whole or your choice)
- 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Flavor Profile
This bread pudding delivers soft, custard-soaked bread with warm cinnamon and vanilla throughout. The silky vanilla sauce adds sweetness and richness, making every bite deeply comforting and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Oven & Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place cubed bread evenly in the dish.
2. Mix Custard Base
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt until smooth.
3. Soak the Bread
Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing gently so the bread absorbs the liquid. Let sit 10–15 minutes so the bread becomes thoroughly soaked.
4. Bake the Bread Pudding
Bake in the preheated oven 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set (a knife inserted should come out mostly clean).
5. Make the Vanilla Sauce
While the pudding bakes, prepare the sauce:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch. Gradually add milk, whisking to combine. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Remove from heat and slowly whisk in egg yolks (temper the yolks by adding a little hot milk first to avoid scrambling). Return to low heat and cook 1–2 minutes more until smooth.
Stir in butter, vanilla extract, and salt until melted and incorporated.
6. Serve
Spoon slices of warm bread pudding onto plates and drizzle generously with warm vanilla sauce.
Tips for Best Results
- Use day-old bread: Stale bread absorbs custard better than fresh.
- Don’t skip resting: Letting the bread soak ensures every piece is custardy.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the batter before baking and adjust sugar if desired.
- Add raisins or nuts: Stir in raisins or toasted nuts for extra texture.
How to Serve
Serve warm with extra vanilla sauce, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream. A dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon makes it extra inviting.
Storage & Freshness
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave; add a splash of milk or extra sauce to keep it moist.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is classic comfort dessert — warm, rich, and utterly satisfying, with soft custard bread and luscious vanilla sauce in every bite!
