Name: Decadent Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 6 cups stale bread (cubed); 4 large eggs; 2 cups milk (whole or skim); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (double if desired); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste); ½ cup raisins or currants (optional); 1 cup powdered sugar; ½ cup heavy cream (or milk for lighter version); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (to match bread pudding flavor)

As I rummaged through my pantry the other day, I stumbled upon some stale bread waiting to be transformed into something delectable. Enter my Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, a recipe that not only breathes new life into forgotten ingredients but also fills your home with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and vanilla. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be prepped in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress. With its rich, creamy texture and the option to include plump raisins or currants, this decadent dessert is sure to bring out the warmth in any gathering. Curious about how to create a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why is this bread pudding irresistible?

Comforting flavors come together in this Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug. Versatile enough to adapt to your taste, toss in your favorite dried fruits or nuts for a unique twist! Quick to prepare, this scrumptious dessert only takes 15 minutes of hands-on time, making it a perfect choice for busy nights. Crowd-pleaser appeal means this recipe is sure to be a hit at gatherings, leaving your guests raving about your culinary skills. For extra indulgence, try drizzling some vanilla sauce over the top; it's the finishing touch that takes it over the edge!

Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Ingredients

• ✨ All you need to make this comforting dessert!

For the Pudding

6 cups stale bread – perfect for soaking up the creamy mixture and adding great texture.
4 large eggs – bind everything together, ensuring a luscious consistency.
2 cups milk – adds creaminess; you can use whole or skim as preferred.
1 cup heavy cream – enhances richness, creating a decadent texture you'll love.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract – infuses delightful flavor; double it if you're a vanilla lover!
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – provides that cozy spice that pairs beautifully with vanilla.
½ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
½ cup sugar – sweetens the pudding; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
½ cup raisins or currants (optional) – adds a pop of sweetness and chewiness; feel free to skip them if you prefer a plain pudding!

For the Vanilla Sauce

1 cup powdered sugar – gives the sauce its sweetness and smooth texture.
½ cup heavy cream – ensures your sauce is rich and velvety; can use milk for a lighter version.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – echo the flavors in the bread pudding for a harmonious finish!

This Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is an inviting dessert that's perfect for any occasion, so let's get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce will bake evenly and develop that lovely golden top as it cooks. While the oven heats up, you can prepare your ingredients, making the process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread
In a large mixing bowl, combine 6 cups of cubed stale bread with ½ cup of raisins or currants if you're using them. Gently toss the bread and optional fruits together until evenly distributed. This step allows the bread to soak up the flavors later, enhancing the texture of your delightful bread pudding.

Step 3: Mix the Custard
In another bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ cup of sugar. Continue whisking until everything is well combined and slightly frothy. This custard mixture will create the rich filling for your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce.

Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the egg mixture over the cubed bread, ensuring every piece is soaked well. Use a spatula to gently stir the mixture for an even distribution of the custard. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes, letting the bread absorb all those tasty flavors, which is key to a perfectly moist pudding.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
After the soaking time, pour the bread mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking. The greased dish will help the pudding come out easily after baking, preserving its beautiful shape when you serve it to family and friends.

Step 6: Bake the Pudding
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and when the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean, your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is ready! It should have a slightly puffed appearance and a golden-brown color on top.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling helps it set further, making it easier to cut into beautiful, warm squares. For an extra touch, serve with a drizzle of homemade vanilla sauce, elevating your dessert experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the cubed stale bread and raisins with the custard mixture, then cover and refrigerate it overnight to soak up all those delicious flavors. This method enhances the pudding's moisture and taste. When you're ready to bake, simply transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and pop it into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes. For optimal quality, avoid freezing the pudding before baking, as it may alter the texture. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delightful and comforting dessert ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings!

How to Store and Freeze Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Fridge: Store any leftover Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it's completely cooled before sealing to retain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze the bread pudding if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 2 months; just remember to label it!

Reheating: Thaw the frozen bread pudding in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Serving Suggestions: For the best experience, reheat and drizzle with additional vanilla sauce right before serving to enhance its deliciousness!

Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists on your classic bread pudding, making it uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk for a lighter version.
For an extra creamy finish, add a splash of coconut cream. It brings a touch of tropical flavor that's simply delightful.
Nutty: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy contrast to the soft pudding.
Nuts not only elevate the texture but also introduce a warm, toasty flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla.
Spiced: Amp up the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon.
These warm spices enhance the comforting notes in your bread pudding, inviting rich aromas into your kitchen.
Fruity: Swap raisins or currants for fresh or frozen berries for a burst of flavor and color.
Think plump blueberries or tart raspberries; they offer a juicy surprise in every bite!
Chocolate Lover's: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Chocolate melts blissfully into the pudding, elevating it to a whole new level of indulgence!
Bourbon: Stir in a few tablespoons of bourbon or rum for an adult kick.
The alcohol enhances the vanilla and cinnamon, creating an extraordinary dessert experience that’s perfect for gatherings.
Savory: Experiment by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach and cheese for a brunch-style bread pudding.
This savory version offers a hearty option and is equally comforting for breakfast or brunch as it is for dessert.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce throughout the mixture before baking for an irresistible sticky sweetness.
Enjoy the delightful gooey pockets of caramel melting into your bread pudding, creating a luscious and comforting treat.

What to Serve with Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Crafting a memorable meal is all about harmony, bringing together flavors and textures that dance on your palate.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds a delightful contrast to the warm bread pudding, melting slightly and enhancing its rich flavors.
Fresh Berries Medley: Bright strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries can cut through the sweetness, offering a refreshing balance that cleanses the palate.
Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, introducing depth and earthiness that pairs beautifully with the pudding.
Spiced Apple Compote: Sweet, caramelized apples with a hint of cinnamon mirror the flavors in the pudding, creating a comforting combination.
Hot Chocolate or Coffee: A warm beverage, like a rich hot chocolate or freshly brewed coffee, complements dessert, making it a cozy treat for colder days.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream provides a smooth, creamy addition that highlights the indulgence of the bread pudding.

These pairing ideas will elevate your dining experience, ensuring the Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce shines as the star of your meal!

Tips for the Best Bread Pudding

Soak Time Matters: Allow the bread to soak for at least 15 minutes. This ensures the flavors of the custard penetrate every cube, making your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce moist and flavorful.

Use Stale Bread: Fresh bread can lead to a mushy texture. Opt for stale bread to achieve that perfect balance of softness and structure that holds up beautifully during baking.

Don’t Overmix: When combining the custard and bread, mix gently. Overmixing can break down the bread too much, resulting in a less desirable texture.

Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time. Insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean when done. This prevents over or underbaking your delectable dessert.

Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits or even chocolate chips. Just remember, if you add too many, it may affect the overall texture of your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce.

Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for bread pudding?
Absolutely! For the best results with your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, I recommend using stale bread like French or brioche. The texture of stale bread holds up well in the custard, absorbing flavors without getting too mushy.

How should I store leftover bread pudding?
To keep your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce fresh, simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It'll last for up to 3 days, but make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing the container to maintain all that delicious moisture!

Can I freeze bread pudding?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. This will keep it fresh for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I do if my bread pudding seems soggy?
If your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce turns out too soggy, it might be due to over-soaking the bread. Make sure to adhere to the 15-minute soaking time I recommend. If you find yourself with a soggy pudding, try baking it a little longer, checking for doneness by inserting a knife into the center.

Is this recipe safe for people with egg allergies?
While this recipe needs eggs for structure, you can make a vegan version by substituting the 4 large eggs with 1 cup of silken tofu blended until smooth. This will mimic the custard-like texture needed for your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce while being safe for egg allergy sufferers or those following a vegan diet.

Can I add nuts or other fruits to the bread pudding?
Very! Feel free to customize your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or other dried fruits like apricots or figs. Just be mindful not to overfill; too many add-ins can change the pudding's texture. Enjoy experimenting!