Best Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe is one of my all-time favorite dessert recipes. This delicious dish combines the comforting texture of baked bread with the creamy richness of vanilla sauce. When I first discovered this recipe, it opened a new world of possibilities in my kitchen, and I can confidently say it has become a favorite for my family and friends alike.
The unique blend of spices, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia makes this bread pudding a must-try. It’s not only easy to make, but it also offers a warm and inviting aroma that fills your home. Over the years, I’ve honed this recipe into the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients for Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe
For the Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups of stale bread, cubed (French or challah works well)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup of raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, for greasing
For the Vanilla Sauce:
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
How to Make Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe
The first step is gathering your bread. I always prefer to use stale bread, as it soaks up the custard mixture beautifully. If you don’t have stale bread, simply leave fresh bread out for a few hours to dry out. Cut the bread into cubes and place them in a large bowl.
Making the Custard Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix this mixture well until it’s fully combined. The mixture needs to be smooth for the best texture. Pour this custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring the bread absorbs all the liquid.
Soaking the Bread
Allow the bread to soak for at least 30 minutes. This will help the bread absorb the flavors and moisture, resulting in a rich and creamy bread pudding. You can even soak it longer if you prefer, up to a few hours in the refrigerator.
Prepping the Baking Dish
While the bread is soaking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. This will prevent the pudding from sticking and help achieve a beautiful golden top.
Adding the Raisins or Chocolate Chips
If you chose to add raisins or chocolate chips, now is the time. Gently fold them into the soaked bread mixture for added sweetness and texture. This step adds a delightful surprise in every bite.
Baking the Bread Pudding
Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes to an hour. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Preparing the Vanilla Sauce
While the bread pudding is baking, it’s time to prepare the delicious vanilla sauce. In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, milk, vanilla and salt. Stir over medium heat until the mixture thickens. This usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes.
Serving Your Bread Pudding
Once the bread pudding is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. Each portion can be drizzled with the warm vanilla sauce. The combination of warm bread pudding and the creamy sauce creates a comforting and heavenly dessert experience.
Storing Leftovers
If by some chance you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave, drizzling a bit of extra vanilla sauce on top before serving.
Variations of Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe
One of the best things about bread pudding is its versatility. This base recipe can be adapted to fit different tastes:
- Fruit Bread Pudding: Add apples, pears, or berries to the mixture for a fruity twist.
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy element.
- Chocolate Delight: Use chocolate bread or add cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
Enjoy Your Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe
Best Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe is truly a delightful treat that takes me back to simpler moments in life. It offers warmth, sweetness, and a comforting flavor that everyone will enjoy. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
I encourage you to try making this bread pudding yourself. Its simplicity and deliciousness will impress your family and friends, making it a go-to dessert in your home. Happy baking!