Name: Old fashioned bread pudding with vanilla sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups of day-old bread, cut into cubes (French or Italian bread works well; brioche can add a richer flavor); 4 large eggs, preferably free-range for better flavor; 2 cups of whole milk, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a creamier texture; 1 cup of granulated sugar, which can be adjusted based on your sweetness preference; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, using pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor; 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, or more if you prefer a spicier taste; 1/4 teaspoon of salt, to balance the sweetness; 1 cup of raisins (optional, but they add a delightful chewiness and natural sweetness); 1 cup of powdered sugar, sifted to prevent lumps (for the sauce); 1/2 cup of heavy cream (which can be replaced with milk for a lighter sauce); 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for the sauce)

Old fashioned bread pudding is a beloved dessert that holds a special place in the hearts of many, evoking memories of family gatherings and comforting home-cooked meals. This classic dessert has roots that can be traced back centuries, with its origins thought to be in Europe, where it was a way to repurpose stale bread and minimize food waste. Today, it remains a favorite in homes across the globe, often enjoyed for its warm, custardy texture and the delightful flavor of spices and sweet additions like raisins. The comforting aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is an experience in itself, drawing friends and family together. Whether you’re looking to recreate a nostalgic dish or introduce this traditional comfort food to a new generation, this easy bread pudding recipe delivers satisfying results with every bite.

Ingredients

To create a delicious old fashioned bread pudding, gather the following ingredients: You can learn more about this topic.

Bread Pudding Ingredients:
- 6 cups of day-old bread, cut into cubes (French or Italian bread works well; brioche can add a richer flavor)
- 4 large eggs, preferably free-range for better flavor
- 2 cups of whole milk, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a creamier texture
- 1 cup of granulated sugar, which can be adjusted based on your sweetness preference
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, using pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, or more if you prefer a spicier taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt, to balance the sweetness
- 1 cup of raisins (optional, but they add a delightful chewiness and natural sweetness)
For the Creamy Vanilla Sauce:
- 1 cup of powdered sugar, sifted to prevent lumps
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream, which can be replaced with milk for a lighter sauce
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, to echo the flavor in the pudding

Note: For best results, use high-quality bread for your pudding. Day-old bread is ideal as it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming overly soggy. If you prefer, you can substitute the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor. Check out our related guide for more tips. Remember to consider the type of bread you choose; for instance, sourdough can introduce a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pudding.

Steps / Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to allow it to reach the perfect baking temperature, ensuring even cooking throughout.
Prepare the bread: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with raisins if using. Set aside while you prepare the custard mixture, allowing the bread to firm up slightly.
Mix the custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, with no lumps visible and a nice frothy texture.
Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces of bread are well soaked. Gently press the bread down with a spatula to help it absorb the liquid, making sure to get the custard into every nook and cranny.
Let it sit: Allow the mixture to rest for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring a creamy texture in your old fashioned bread pudding, as it gives the bread a chance to fully absorb the custard.
Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, then pour the soaked bread mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
Bake: Place the 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 puffed, and the center will be set but still slightly jiggly.
Make the vanilla sauce: While the bread pudding is baking, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream if necessary, making it pourable but still thick enough to cling to the pudding.
Serve: Once the bread pudding has cooled slightly, cut into squares and drizzle with the creamy vanilla sauce for an irresistible finish. You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra touch.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your old fashioned bread pudding turns out perfectly:

Storage: Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore moisture if needed.
Make-ahead option: You can assemble the bread pudding the night before and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake; this also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Avoiding sogginess: Ensure your bread is stale, as fresh bread may result in a soggy pudding. You can also toast the bread cubes lightly before soaking them in the custard, which gives a nice texture contrast.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices like nutmeg or allspice to customize your bread pudding. You can even incorporate citrus zest for a fresh twist.

Conclusion

This old fashioned bread pudding with creamy vanilla sauce is not just a treat; it’s a heartfelt journey into comfort food nostalgia. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delightful dessert that’s bound to impress family and friends. Each bite encapsulates warmth and sweetness, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether served warm at the end of a meal or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, this dish encapsulates the joy of traditional baking. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking—you won’t regret it!