Imagine the sweet aroma of warm cinnamon and vanilla filling your kitchen, the rich, creamy texture of custard-soaked bread, and the delightful drizzle of velvety vanilla sauce melting into every bite. That’s the magic of Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce a timeless dessert that brings comfort with every spoonful.
Bread pudding has been a staple in home kitchens for generations. What started as a clever way to use up stale bread has turned into a beloved treat found in bakeries and restaurants across the world. This easy, budget-friendly dessert is a favorite for family gatherings, cozy nights, or whenever you need a little taste of nostalgia.
If you love classic desserts like rice pudding or cobbler, you’ll adore this Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce. It’s simple, delicious, and requires only a handful of ingredients. Plus, it’s highly customizable add raisins, nuts, or even chocolate chips to make it your own!
So, whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into the details of this comforting and irresistibly creamy treat!
Table of Contents
What is Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce?
Ever wondered why it’s called “bread pudding”? Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like a dessert made by soaking bread in a sweet custard mixture and baking it to perfection. But don’t let the simplicity fool you! This dish is packed with rich flavors and an incredible texture that’s both soft and slightly crispy on top.
Some say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and bread pudding is proof of that! Historically, this dish was created as a frugal way to use leftover bread, but over time, it became a beloved classic. The addition of homemade vanilla sauce elevates it from a humble dessert to an indulgent treat.
If you’ve never tried it before, now’s the time! Let’s make this old-fashioned delight right in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
1. It’s a Comforting, Nostalgic Dessert
The warm, creamy texture and sweet cinnamon-vanilla flavors make this the ultimate comfort food. It’s like a hug in dessert form!
2. Budget-Friendly and Easy to Make
Got leftover bread? Perfect! This recipe turns simple pantry staples into something extraordinary. No fancy ingredients or techniques required just mix, bake, and enjoy.
3. Delicious Customization Options
From raisins and pecans to chocolate chips and caramel drizzle, there are endless ways to make this recipe your own. Pair it with whipped cream or fresh fruit for an extra special touch.
If you love French toast, you’ll definitely enjoy this dish it’s like a baked, extra-luxurious version! Now, let’s get to baking.
Banana bread is a moist, flavorful treat made with ripe bananas, perfect for a cozy homemade bake. Check out this delicious Banana Bread Recipe!
How to Make Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Quick Overview
Making bread pudding is incredibly easy! You’ll need basic ingredients like bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and spices. The secret to a great bread pudding is allowing the bread to fully soak up the custard mixture before baking. Once golden brown and slightly crispy on top, it’s ready to be topped with a rich, creamy vanilla sauce.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Key Ingredients for Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
For the Bread Pudding:
- 4 cups day-old bread, cut into cubes (French bread or brioche works best)
- 2 cups milk (whole milk for creaminess)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Vanilla Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Spread the bread cubes in the dish evenly. If using raisins or nuts, sprinkle them over the bread.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour the mixture over the bread, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread absorbs the liquid. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Bake
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 4: Make the Vanilla Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together cream, sugar, and butter until it begins to simmer.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Pour the warm vanilla sauce over the freshly baked bread pudding and enjoy every spoonful!
Spicy, cheesy, and completely dairy-free, this Vegan Jalapeño Cheese Artisan Bread is a flavorful twist on classic artisan bread.
What to Serve Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce With
This dessert is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level with these pairings:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream – The warm pudding with cold ice cream is an unbeatable combination!
- Fresh berries – Adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy texture.
- Whipped cream – A light, fluffy topping that enhances every bite.
- Caramel or chocolate drizzle – Because why not?
Top Tips for Perfecting Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
✔ Use day-old bread – Stale bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in a rich and creamy texture.
✔ Don’t skip the soaking step – Allowing the bread to sit in the custard mixture ensures a moist pudding.
✔ Experiment with flavors – Try adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the vanilla sauce for extra depth!
✔ Make it dairy-free – Swap whole milk for almond or coconut milk, and use dairy-free butter.
Storing and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Warm at 300°F for 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm the vanilla sauce separately and pour over before serving.
FAQ: All About Bread Pudding
1. What are the ingredients for bread pudding?
Bread pudding is made with simple pantry staples. The basic ingredients include:
- Bread (day-old French bread, brioche, or any sturdy bread)
- Milk or cream
- Eggs
- Sugar (granulated or brown sugar)
- Butter
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon and nutmeg (for flavor)
- Optional add-ins: Raisins, chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit
2. What do you eat pudding with?
Bread pudding is delicious on its own but even better with these toppings:
- Vanilla sauce (a classic pairing!)
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
- Caramel or chocolate drizzle
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
3. Is Yorkshire pudding the same as bread pudding?
No, they are completely different! Yorkshire pudding is a savory, airy dish made from batter (similar to popovers), while bread pudding is a sweet, custard-based dessert made from soaked bread.
4. Should bread pudding be refrigerated overnight before baking?
Refrigerating overnight is optional but can enhance the flavor. Letting the bread soak in the custard mixture overnight results in a richer texture. However, if you’re short on time, soaking for 10–15 minutes before baking works just fine.
5. How do you make boxed vanilla pudding taste homemade?
Enhance boxed vanilla pudding with these tricks:
- Use whole milk or half-and-half instead of water for a richer texture.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a homemade touch.
- Mix in a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Whisk in melted butter or heavy cream for extra creaminess.
- Fold in whipped cream for a fluffier consistency.
6. Why is my bread pudding still wet inside?
If your bread pudding is too wet in the center, here’s why:
✔ Undercooked: Bake longer until the center is set. A knife inserted should come out clean.
✔ Too much liquid: Use the right bread-to-custard ratio. Sturdier bread works best.
✔ Bread not fully soaked: Let the bread absorb the custard mixture evenly before baking.
✔ Oven temperature too low: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for proper cooking.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly, and utterly delicious dessert, this Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a must-try! Whether you’re making it for family, a holiday gathering, or just because, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! And if you love classic comfort foods, don’t forget to check out our other easy homemade dessert recipes. Happy baking! 🍽️💕