This is the kind of dessert that brings back memories of cozy kitchens, Sunday suppers, and that unmistakable smell of cinnamon and vanilla in the air. With golden, custardy bread and a rich vanilla sauce drizzled on top, this timeless treat is a hug in a bowl.
📝 Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
- 5 cups day-old bread, cubed (French bread or challah is perfect!)
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
For the Vanilla Sauce:
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
👨🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3️⃣ Add the bread cubes and raisins, then gently stir to coat. Let sit 10–15 minutes so the bread soaks up the custard.
4️⃣ Pour mixture into the baking dish, drizzle with melted butter, and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until golden and set.
5️⃣ While it bakes, make the vanilla sauce:
• In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and cornstarch.
• Cook over medium heat until slightly thickened.
• Stir in butter and vanilla, then remove from heat.
6️⃣ Serve warm bread pudding with a generous spoonful of vanilla sauce over the top. 💛
💡 Tips from Grandma’s Kitchen
- Stale bread works best — it holds shape and soaks up custard like a dream.
- Add chopped pecans or apples for a twist.
- For extra decadence, add a splash of bourbon to the sauce!
- Pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Classic, nostalgic flavor
✔️ Simple pantry staples
✔️ The vanilla sauce steals the show
✔️ The perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays or cozy weekends
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