A Cozy Family Treat: Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of bread pudding, especially when drizzled with rich vanilla sauce. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, transforming leftover bread into a delightful dessert that everyone looks forward to. The combination of custardy bread, the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the luscious vanilla sauce makes for a perfect finish to any meal. My family adores it, and I love how easy it is to prepare—it’s a classic dessert that never fails to impress!

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding:

• 8 slices stale bread, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for greasing the dish)

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with the melted butter.
2. Prepare the Bread: Cube the stale bread and place it in the greased baking dish. If using, sprinkle raisins between the layers of bread.
3. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Pour the mixture over the cubed bread, ensuring all the bread is soaked. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to fully absorb the custard.
4. Bake the Pudding: Bake the bread pudding in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set. Test by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
5. Prepare the Vanilla Sauce: While the bread pudding is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in both the granulated and brown sugars, cooking until the sugar dissolves. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Serve: Once the bread pudding is done, let it cool slightly. Serve warm with the vanilla sauce drizzled over the top.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm, drizzled with vanilla sauce.
• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Add fresh fruit like berries or bananas for a fresh touch.
• Offer additional sauce on the side for guests to add as desired.

Additional Tips

1. Use Stale Bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard better, so don’t hesitate to use leftovers.
2. Customize the Add-ins: Experiment with different mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or other dried fruits.
3. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the custard before pouring it over the bread; you can adjust the sugar to your liking.
4. Let it Soak: Allowing the bread to soak longer in the custard mixture can enhance the flavor and texture.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the bread pudding in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
• Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding: Substitute some of the bread with cubed apples and increase the cinnamon.
• Banana Bread Pudding: Use banana bread instead of regular bread for a fruity flavor.
• Maple Pecan Bread Pudding: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup and add chopped pecans.
• Savory Bread Pudding: Skip the sugar and vanilla, and add cheese, herbs, and sautéed vegetables for a savory dish.

Serving Suggestions

• With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream elevates the dessert.
• Fruit Compote: Serve with a warm fruit compote for a fruity contrast.
• Coffee or Tea: Pair with a warm beverage for a cozy dessert experience.
• Whipped Cream: Top with freshly whipped cream for added richness.
• Cheese Plate: For a unique pairing, offer a cheese plate alongside the dessert.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked bread pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?

• Yes, but it may not absorb the custard as well. Let it sit out to dry for a bit before using.

1. What kind of bread works best?

• Brioche, challah, or French bread are excellent choices due to their texture and flavor.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.

1. Is this dessert gluten-free?

• You can use gluten-free bread to make it gluten-free.

1. Can I substitute the heavy cream in the sauce?

• You can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.

1. How do I know when the pudding is done?

• It should be golden on top and set in the middle. A knife inserted should come out clean.

1. Can I add more spices?

• Absolutely! Feel free to add more cinnamon or other spices like ginger or allspice.

1. What if I don’t have brown sugar?

• You can use more granulated sugar, but the flavor will be slightly different.

1. How long does this dessert keep?

• It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and frozen for up to 2 months.

1. Can I use a different sauce?
   • Yes, you can experiment with different sauces like caramel or chocolate.

Conclusion

Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a nostalgic dessert that combines simple ingredients to create something truly delightful. Whether enjoyed after a family dinner or served at a gathering, this dish brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless variations, making it a perfect canvas for your creativity. So gather your ingredients, and indulge in a slice of this comforting classic!

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