Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a classic dessert that brings comfort and warmth with every bite. This rich, custardy dish is made with simple ingredients like bread, eggs, milk, and sugar, then baked to perfection and topped with a luscious homemade vanilla sauce. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover bread and create a delicious, nostalgic treat that’s great for family gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in. The combination of soft, warm pudding and creamy vanilla sauce makes this dessert irresistible.
Ingredients
For Bread Pudding
- 4 cups of stale bread (French bread or brioche, cubed)
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (melted)
For Vanilla Sauce
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preparing the Bread Pudding
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread and raisins (if using). Set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well blended.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are evenly soaked. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Pour the melted butter over the mixture and gently stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the vanilla sauce.
Making the Vanilla Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then add it to the saucepan.
- Continue stirring until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and add butter and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.
- Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving.
Serving
- Slice the warm bread pudding into portions and drizzle generously with vanilla sauce.
- Optionally, garnish with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries.
- Enjoy this comforting dessert warm or chilled.
This Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. The creamy vanilla sauce enhances the richness of the pudding, creating an indulgent treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds.