Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce: A Timeless Delight

Discover the comforting embrace of Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, a delightful dessert that blends the heartwarming flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with the creamy richness of a homemade vanilla sauce. Perfect for those who crave the nostalgia of classic comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bread pudding recipe is not only a taste of nostalgia but also a perfect way to bring joy to any gathering. The custardy texture combined with a hint of spice makes it an unforgettable dessert. Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and profound flavor.

The ease of preparation coupled with its delicious outcome makes it an all-time favorite. The ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it a convenient choice when you want to whip up something special on a whim.

With its delightful vanilla sauce, this bread pudding brings a luxurious touch to any meal, making it both a show-stopper and a comfort food classic. You’ll love the way it fills the house with warmth and a delicious aroma.

Context/Background

Bread pudding has its roots in the kitchens of medieval Europeans, who sought to make the most of stale bread. Over the centuries, it has evolved, with each region adding its unique twist. In America, bread pudding became a beloved dish in the southern states, with recipes often passed down through generations.

Grandma’s version is particularly special, incorporating the timeless combination of spices and a luscious vanilla sauce known for enhancing the rich, eggy custard. This dish is a testament to the creative resilience of using simple, leftover ingredients to craft something extraordinary.

Recipe Details

Serves: 8

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 8 cups of day-old bread, cubed
• 4 cups of milk
• 1 cup of sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup of butter, melted
• For the Vanilla Sauce:
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of butter
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, soak the bread cubes in milk for about 10 minutes.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Stir in the raisins if using.
4. Pour this mixture over the soaked bread and gently stir to combine. Pour everything into the prepared baking dish.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the top and bake for 45 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
6. For the vanilla sauce, combine sugar, butter, and cream in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the butter is melted, and the sugar is dissolved. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. Serve the bread pudding warm, with the vanilla sauce drizzled over the top.

Tips for Perfect Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

• Use day-old bread for best results, as it absorbs the custard mixture more effectively.
• Feel free to swap the raisins with your favorite dried fruit or nuts for added texture.
• Adjust the sweetness of the vanilla sauce according to your preference by adding more or less sugar.
• Serve the pudding warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an even more decadent dessert experience. It also pairs wonderfully with a fresh cup of coffee or tea.

Storage and Leftovers

This bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven until heated through. The vanilla sauce can be stored separately in an airtight container and reheated on the stove or microwave before serving.

Final Thoughts

Embrace the flavors of nostalgia with Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce. Its comforting and rich taste is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Share it with family and friends, and create lasting memories over a timeless dish.

Recipe Notes

• For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of bourbon or whiskey to the custard mixture.
• This recipe works well with any type of bread, so feel free to use what you have on hand.
• Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy finish.