Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a timeless dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, comforting classic. Cubes of day-old bread are soaked in a sweet custard, baked to golden perfection, and drizzled with a warm, creamy vanilla sauce. It’s a cozy, nostalgic treat that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or anytime you crave something indulgent yet homey.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses pantry staples and leftover bread
• Warm, spiced, custard-like interior with a golden top
• Creamy vanilla sauce takes it to the next level
• Great for making ahead and reheating
• Easy to customize with add-ins like fruit or chocolate
• Perfect for serving a crowd
• Classic comfort dessert that never goes out of style
• Satisfying and budget-friendly
• Delicious served warm or cold
• Great with whipped cream or ice cream

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bread Pudding:

• Day-old bread (French, brioche, challah, or sandwich bread)
• Eggs
• Whole milk or half-and-half
• Sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg (optional)
• Salt
• Butter (melted)
• Raisins or other dried fruit (optional)

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• Butter
• Heavy cream or whole milk
• Sugar
• Egg yolk
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

Bread Pudding:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cut the bread into cubes and place in the prepared dish. Add raisins if using.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour the custard mixture over the bread. Press down gently to soak all the bread. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
6. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set. Let cool slightly before serving.

Vanilla Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in sugar and cream.
2. Whisk in the egg yolk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened—do not boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt.
4. Serve warm over slices of bread pudding.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add chocolate chips, nuts, or caramel pieces to the pudding
• Use cinnamon-raisin bread or croissants for extra richness
• Swap raisins for dried cranberries, apples, or peaches
• Add bourbon or rum to the vanilla sauce for an adult twist
• Make it dairy-free with almond milk and plant-based butter
• Use brown sugar for a deeper flavor

storage/reheating

Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Vanilla sauce can be stored separately and gently reheated on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezing is possible, but best without the sauce—thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What type of bread works best?

Sturdy, slightly stale breads like French bread, brioche, or challah work well because they absorb custard without getting mushy.

Can I use fresh bread?

Yes, but toast it in the oven first to dry it out for better texture.

How do I know when the pudding is done?

The top should be golden and the center set—insert a knife to check for doneness.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it the night before and refrigerate. Bake fresh the next day.

Is the vanilla sauce necessary?

It’s optional but highly recommended—it adds a luxurious, creamy finish.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk and butter for both the pudding and sauce.

Can I make a smaller batch?

Yes, halve the recipe and use an 8×8-inch baking dish.

Can I freeze bread pudding?

Yes, freeze before or after baking. Thaw and reheat in the oven for best results.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the sauce?

You can substitute whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.

Can I serve it cold?

Yes, it’s delicious chilled or at room temperature, though most prefer it warm.

Conclusion

Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a cozy, classic dessert that turns humble ingredients into something truly special. Whether served at a holiday meal, family dinner, or just as a treat on a chilly evening, this timeless recipe delivers comfort, warmth, and irresistible flavor in every bite. With its soft, custardy center and sweet vanilla drizzle, it’s a dessert everyone will remember.

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