Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert made with day-old bread soaked in a rich custard, flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. Topped with a creamy, sweet vanilla sauce, this dish brings back memories of cozy kitchens and family gatherings. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

I love making this bread pudding because it reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would make this delicious treat with leftover bread. The warm custard-soaked bread, combined with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla, creates a rich, comforting dessert. The vanilla sauce poured over the top adds just the right amount of sweetness, making it irresistible. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread while creating something that feels indulgent and satisfying.

This bread pudding pairs perfectly with a side of Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe or Pumpkin Banana Loaf Recipe for a dessert spread that’s comforting and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe

• Comforting and Nostalgic: This is the ultimate old-fashioned comfort dessert, filled with warm spices and creamy textures.
• Great for Using Leftover Bread: A perfect way to avoid waste by turning stale bread into a delicious dessert.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With basic ingredients like bread, eggs, milk, and sugar, you can create something truly special.
• Easy to Make: It’s a simple, classic recipe that doesn’t require much effort but delivers incredible flavor.

Main Ingredients for Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

1. Day-Old Bread – Stale bread works best for this recipe, as it absorbs the custard mixture more effectively.
2. Eggs and Milk – These form the base of the custard, giving the bread pudding its creamy texture.
3. Sugar and Vanilla Extract – These add sweetness and depth of flavor to both the custard and the vanilla sauce.
4. Cinnamon and Nutmeg – Warm spices that enhance the flavor of the bread pudding.
5. Raisins (Optional) – Adds a touch of sweetness and texture to the pudding.
6. Vanilla Sauce – A creamy, sweet sauce that perfectly complements the spiced bread pudding.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding Recipe

Here’s how to make this warm and comforting bread pudding step by step:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
   • Tip: Using a larger dish ensures that the bread pudding bakes evenly and gets a nice, golden crust.
2. Prepare the Bread: Cut or tear 6-7 cups of day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in the prepared baking dish. If the bread is not dry enough, you can toast it lightly in the oven for 10 minutes.
   • Pro Tip: Use a mix of bread types like French bread or brioche for extra flavor and texture.
3. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg until well combined.
   • Tip: For a richer flavor, you can substitute part of the milk with half-and-half or use more heavy cream.
4. Combine the Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to evenly coat all of the bread. Press the bread down gently to help it absorb the custard. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to soak.
   • Variation: If you like raisins in your bread pudding, stir in 1/2 cup of raisins at this stage.
5. Bake the Bread Pudding: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set but still slightly soft in the center.
   • Pro Tip: If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
6. Make the Vanilla Sauce: While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
   • Tip: For an extra creamy sauce, you can substitute some of the milk with cream or evaporated milk.
7. Serve: Once the bread pudding is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle the warm vanilla sauce over each portion and enjoy!
   • Serving Idea: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent treat.

Extra Tips and Variations

• Add Nuts: For extra texture, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking.
• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a chocolatey twist.
• How to Store: Leftover bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven.
• How to Freeze: You can freeze the bread pudding before or after baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Health Benefits of Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

This bread pudding is a treat, but it also offers some nutritional benefits thanks to the eggs and milk, which provide protein and calcium. If you’re looking to lighten the recipe, you can use low-fat milk or reduce the sugar. Adding nuts or using whole wheat bread can also boost the fiber content.

• High in Protein: Eggs and milk provide protein, which helps with muscle repair and energy.
• Rich in Calcium: The dairy in this recipe offers calcium, essential for bone health.
• Customizable for Healthier Options: You can lighten the recipe by using lower-fat milk or reducing the sugar for a less indulgent version.