Print

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

Close-up of a moist slice of bread pudding generously covered in creamy caramel sauce.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this classic bread pudding using leftover bread. It features a rich custard base and comes with a simple, warm vanilla sauce for a comforting dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups stale bread cubes (French or white bread works well)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
  • For the Vanilla Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. Place the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle raisins over the bread.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth.
  4. Whisk in the milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined. This is your custard base.
  5. Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
  6. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
  7. While the pudding bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  8. Remove the butter from the heat. Whisk in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add milk one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  9. Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a generous drizzle of the homemade vanilla sauce.

Notes

  • Use bread that is at least one day old for the best texture; fresh bread can become too mushy.
  • You can substitute the vanilla sauce with a simple caramel sauce or a bourbon sauce for a different flavor profile.
  • This recipe is a great no waste dessert for using up stale loaves.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://miameal.com/best-bread-pudding-recipe-old-fashioned/