Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

If you’ve ever tasted a dish that feels like a big, warm hug, then Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is it. There’s something about the way the soft, cinnamon-scented bread soaks up all the creamy, sweet goodness that instantly makes you feel cozy and cared for. This is the kind of dessert that reminds you of those family dinners where the kitchen smelled like love and laughter—and trust me, this recipe is no exception.

Each bite is a little taste of nostalgia, with a rich vanilla sauce that’s so silky and decadent, it practically melts on your tongue. The bread pudding itself is perfectly spiced, not too sweet, but just right. It’s a classic that’s been passed down through generations, and once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a timeless favorite.

Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, enjoying it on a quiet Sunday afternoon, or bringing it to a potluck, this bread pudding is guaranteed to be the star of the show. Let’s dive into this classic comfort food!

Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Nostalgic & Comforting: Every bite of this bread pudding takes you back to simpler times, evoking fond memories of Grandma’s kitchen. It’s pure comfort food at its best.

Perfect for Leftover Bread: If you’ve got stale bread lying around, this recipe is the perfect way to use it up. It’s a waste-free treat that turns old bread into a cozy dessert.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s for a family gathering, a holiday meal, or just because, this dessert is always a hit. Everyone loves it, and you’ll never hear any complaints.

Easy to Make: No complicated steps here. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to pull off this old-fashioned treat—it’s simple, straightforward, and oh-so-satisfying.

Customizable: You can tweak the flavors to your liking—add raisins, nuts, or even a little extra spice if that’s your thing. You can easily make it your own!

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

This bread pudding is made with humble ingredients, but they come together to create something magical. Here’s what you need:

Stale Bread

The key to a great bread pudding! Day-old bread works best, but if you’re in a pinch, fresh bread works too—just let it dry out a bit before using.

Milk

The creamy base that soaks into the bread, making each bite soft and dreamy.

Eggs

They bind everything together, giving the pudding its rich texture and custardy flavor.

Sugar

Just the right amount to sweeten the dish without overwhelming it.

Vanilla Extract

Adds depth and that lovely, comforting vanilla flavor that makes this dessert irresistible.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg

The warm spices that take this bread pudding to the next level, giving it that cozy, homey taste.

Butter

Richness and flavor, plus it adds that golden-brown goodness when baked.

Raisins or Nuts (Optional)

These are totally optional but add a little texture and chew to the pudding, giving it even more depth.

For the Vanilla Sauce:

Milk or Cream

The creamy base for your vanilla sauce, making it smooth and velvety.

Sugar

Sweetens the sauce and complements the bread pudding perfectly.

Butter

For that silky richness that makes the sauce absolutely irresistible.

Vanilla Extract

Because we all know vanilla is the key to making any sauce a little slice of heaven.

Cornstarch

This thickens the sauce, making it smooth and luscious.

Instructions

Let’s get this bread pudding baking! It’s so easy, and the end result is totally worth it.

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure the pudding doesn’t stick.

Prepare the Bread

Tear or cut the stale bread into chunks and place them in a large bowl. You want to have about 4 cups of bread cubes. Let’s give it a good mix and make sure the pieces are evenly distributed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour this mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to coat each piece. Gently press down on the bread with a spoon to help it soak up the liquid.

Add Butter

Cut the butter into small cubes and scatter it over the top of the bread mixture for added richness and flavor.

Bake to Perfection

Pour the bread pudding mixture into your prepared baking dish and bake it in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and the custard has set. You should see a lovely, crispy top with a soft, creamy interior.

Make the Vanilla Sauce

While the bread pudding is baking, it’s time to make the vanilla sauce! In a small saucepan, combine the milk or cream, sugar, and butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir this into the milk mixture. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the bread pudding is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon a generous portion of vanilla sauce over the top, and get ready to enjoy this delightful dessert!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

This dessert is a showstopper all on its own, but here are some ways to serve it up for the ultimate experience:

• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the richness of the pudding.
• With Fresh Fruit: A handful of berries or sliced bananas can add a fresh, tart contrast to the sweetness of the bread pudding.
• With Ice Cream: For an extra indulgence, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Heaven in a bowl!
• As a Breakfast: If you’re feeling adventurous, enjoy this bread pudding as a decadent breakfast treat. A little maple syrup on top is always a good idea.

Additional Tips

• Use the Right Bread: While any bread can work, the best results come from using hearty breads like challah, brioche, or French bread. They soak up the custard beautifully.
• Add Chocolate Chips: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, toss in a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the bread pudding the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Serve Warm: Bread pudding is best served warm, so make sure to reheat leftovers in the oven (to keep that texture) instead of the microwave.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
A1: Yes, but you may want to let the bread dry out a bit first. You can even toast it lightly to help it soak up the custard.

Q2: Can I add other fruits or nuts to the bread pudding?
A2: Absolutely! Raisins, chopped apples, walnuts, or pecans are all fantastic additions.

Q3: Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and bake it the next day.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep it from getting soggy.

Q5: Can I freeze bread pudding?
A5: Yes! Once it’s baked and cooled, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q6: Can I substitute the eggs?
A6: Yes, you can use an egg replacer or flaxseed mixture for a vegan version.

Q7: Can I make the vanilla sauce without cornstarch?
A7: Yes, you can skip the cornstarch, but the sauce will be thinner. To thicken it naturally, you can cook it down for a bit longer.

Q8: Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
A8: Definitely! You can substitute almond milk or coconut milk for the dairy, and use plant-based butter for the sauce.

Q9: How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
A9: The pudding is ready when the top is golden and the custard has set in the middle. You can also insert a knife, and it should come out clean.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a classic for a reason—it’s the kind of dessert that fills your heart with warmth and your belly with happiness. It’s easy to make, comforting to eat, and best enjoyed surrounded by family and friends. Whether it’s a holiday tradition or a simple weeknight treat, this bread pudding will always feel like home. Enjoy!

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