If you have a craving for a warm, comforting dessert that feels like a big hug from the inside, this Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic treat combines soft, custardy bread soaked in a perfectly spiced custard, baked until golden and tender, then topped with a luscious, silky vanilla sauce that elevates every bite. Easy to prepare but utterly satisfying, it’s the kind of dessert that brings family and friends together around the table, creating memories and sweet moments with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that unforgettable cozy feeling, from the rich custard soak to the fragrant spices and the creamy vanilla sauce.
- 6 cups day-old bread cubes (such as French or brioche): Using slightly stale bread ensures the custard soaks in perfectly without turning soggy.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness to the custard base.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps create that dreamy custard texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Boosts the richness, making the pudding luxuriously smooth.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spices and cream.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings warm, aromatic spice notes that feel like a cozy hug.
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds depth and a hint of nuttiness to the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness with its fragrant, comforting aroma.
- ½ cup raisins (optional): A sweet surprise that plumps up during baking for bursts of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Drizzled on top to promote a golden, slightly crisp crust.
And for the vanilla sauce, the simple yet essential ingredients include:
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the sauce perfectly without overpowering.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Creates a silky richness in the sauce texture.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to just the right consistency.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the sauce smooth and creamy.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Gives the sauce its signature, comforting vanilla flavor.
How to Make Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This steady, moderate temperature ensures your bread pudding cooks evenly, developing a gorgeous golden crust while staying soft and custardy inside. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously, so none of the heavenly pudding sticks and your serve comes out flawlessly.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth. This mixture is the heart of the pudding—the spice and sweetness will soak into each bread cube, turning ordinary bread into a luscious custard dream.
Step 3: Coat the Bread Cubes
Gently stir in the day-old bread cubes, making sure each piece is coated in the custard mixture. Let this sit for 10 to 15 minutes so the bread has time to soak up that creamy custard, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. If you love little pockets of sweetness, fold in the raisins now—they plump up beautifully during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Bread Pudding
Pour the custard-soaked bread mixture into your prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly on top—this little touch adds a golden, slightly crisp finish that’s pure magic. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the pudding is set in the center and wonderfully golden on top. You’ll know it’s ready when a knife inserted comes out clean.
Step 5: Make the Vanilla Sauce
While the pudding bakes, make your vanilla sauce to complete this cozy dessert. Whisk together the sugar and flour in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The result? A silky, sweet sauce that perfectly complements the warm, spiced bread pudding.
How to Serve Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your warm bread pudding generously drizzled with the homemade vanilla sauce for that traditional, soul-soothing combination. For extra flair and texture, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans, a dusting of cinnamon, or even fresh berries on top. These little details make every serving feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This bread pudding stands beautifully on its own as a dessert, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some freshly whipped cream takes it to the next level. If you want a fresh contrast, a simple fruit salad or lightly macerated berries provide a bright, refreshing companion to the rich pudding.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely gathering, serve individual portions in ramekins with the vanilla sauce poured tableside—it’s a charming and elegant touch. You can also top the pudding with a sprig of mint or edible flowers to brighten the plate. No matter how you present it, this Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe will dazzle your guests and warm their hearts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day treat. Keep the vanilla sauce separate if storing to maintain its perfect texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover bread pudding for up to 2 months. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or use freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The vanilla sauce freezes well separately in a small container, ready to be warmed gently.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or until warmed through. For a crisper top, pop it in a preheated 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Warm the vanilla sauce on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until silky again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While French or brioche bread work best for their texture and richness, you can use challah, sourdough, or even a sturdy white bread. Just avoid super soft or pre-sliced sandwich bread, which may become too mushy.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or gelatin. Just be sure to use unsalted butter and cream from vegetarian sources if needed.
Can I make the vanilla sauce in advance?
Definitely! The vanilla sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving, stirring occasionally to restore its smooth consistency.
What can I add to make this dessert more indulgent?
For an extra special touch, stir in chopped pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips before baking. You might also swap the raisins for dried cherries or cranberries for a twist in flavor and texture.
How do I know when the bread pudding is fully cooked?
The pudding is done when it’s golden brown on top and set in the center. If you insert a knife or toothpick into the middle, it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs—not wet batter.
Final Thoughts
This Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe is a treasured delight that brings warmth and joy to any mealtime, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps yield a deeply satisfying dessert that tastes like love in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this comforting classic with your own loved ones!
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Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm, comforting American dessert featuring custard-soaked bread baked to golden perfection and served with a luscious homemade vanilla sauce. Perfect for family gatherings and cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Bread Pudding
- 6 cups day-old bread cubes (such as French or brioche)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Vanilla Sauce
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Soak Bread: Add the day-old bread cubes to the custard mixture and gently stir to coat all pieces evenly. Allow the mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard thoroughly.
- Add Raisins: If desired, stir in the raisins to the soaked bread mixture for added texture and sweetness.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the custard-soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes until the pudding is golden brown on top and set in the center.
- Make Vanilla Sauce: While the pudding bakes, combine sugar and all-purpose flour in a saucepan. Add butter and whole milk, then cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, approximately 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract for aroma and flavor.
- Serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly after baking. Serve warm with a generous drizzle of the freshly made vanilla sauce.
Notes
- For a richer and creamier texture, substitute half-and-half in place of both the milk and cream.
- Enhance flavor and texture by adding chopped pecans or chocolate chips to the bread mixture before baking.
