If you are searching for the ultimate comfort dessert, look no further than this delightful Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe. It combines simple, humble ingredients transformed into a warm, custardy, and satisfying treat that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. The soft, sweet bread soaked in a fragrant cinnamon-vanilla custard and baked until perfectly golden is elevated further by the silky, buttery vanilla sauce drizzled on top. This recipe is a perfect excuse to dig into a timeless classic with a luscious finish that anyone can master and enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe is straightforward because it relies on fundamental ingredients that you likely have in your kitchen. Each component plays a key role in developing the dessert’s rich flavor, creamy texture, and inviting aroma.
- 6 slices stale bread: Using day-old bread ensures the pudding soaks up the custard perfectly without becoming mushy.
- 3 tbsp. butter (divided): Adds richness and a golden finish, with some melting over the bread and some browning for the sauce.
- 4 eggs (beaten): Acts as the binding agent creating that custard texture throughout the pudding.
- 2 cups milk: Balances creaminess and moisture for a tender, luscious base.
- 3/4 cup white sugar: Sweetens the custard gently without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings fragrant warmth essential to both pudding and sauce.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Offers subtle spice that complements the vanilla and bread beautifully.
- 1 tbsp brown sugar: Provides a caramel note in the vanilla sauce with its molasses depth.
How to Make Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Bread
First, preheat your oven to 350°F to get it ready for baking. Take an 8-inch baking dish and generously butter the bottom and sides with 1 tablespoon of butter. This not only prevents sticking but adds a subtle buttery flavor that enhances the crust. Next, break the stale bread into chunks or cubes and spread them evenly in the buttered dish. Then melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it over the bread, ensuring each piece is lightly coated to create a golden finish during baking.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs, milk, white sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until smooth and fragrant. This custard mixture is the heart of the pudding, soaking into each bread piece and delivering that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Pour the custard evenly over the prepared bread in the dish, pressing lightly so all pieces absorb the liquid.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know the pudding is ready when the top looks set and springs back lightly when touched. The edges should be golden brown while the inside remains soft and custardy. This slow bake allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a warm and inviting dessert.
Step 4: Prepare the Vanilla Sauce
While your bread pudding bakes, you can make the luscious vanilla sauce that will take this dessert to the next level. In a saucepan over high heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and then reduce to medium heat to let the butter brown slightly. This step infuses the sauce with a nutty essence. Next, stir in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Remove from heat, let it rest for a couple of minutes to thicken just a bit, then stir again before drizzling it hot over your freshly baked bread pudding. The sauce pools into every bite, adding a glossy, sweet finish that makes this recipe unforgettable.
How to Serve Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe, consider sprinkling a dusting of powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon right before serving. Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a pop of color and freshness that balances the sweetness. For a touch of luxury, whip up some lightly sweetened cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream—the cold creaminess complements the warm pudding deliciously.
Side Dishes
While this dessert can stand on its own, pairing it with a simple cup of hot coffee or tea can create a cozy, satisfying snack or after-dinner treat. If you want to serve it at a brunch, fresh fruit salad or roasted nuts create a delightful contrast in textures and flavors against the pudding’s softness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve your bread pudding in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Drizzle the vanilla sauce artistically over the top or swirl it in just before serving for a stunning presentation. You can also sprinkle toasted pecans or chopped pistachios on top for an added crunch—making your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe not only delicious but also eye-catching.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from your Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe (though we doubt there will be much!), cover the pudding tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, retaining its moist texture and flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked bread pudding by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. When frozen, it will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. It’s a great way to keep this treat ready for spontaneous indulgence.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, thaw the bread pudding overnight in the fridge. Then reheat it gently in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the texture. Reheat the vanilla sauce briefly on the stovetop or microwave and pour warmed sauce over the pudding for that just-baked experience all over again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
While fresh bread can be used, stale or day-old bread is preferred for this Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe because it absorbs the custard mixture better without becoming overly soggy, resulting in a perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this dessert dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter. This way, you can still enjoy the cozy flavors without dairy.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the bread pudding?
Definitely! You can fold in raisins, nuts, chopped apples, or even chocolate chips to customize the pudding. Just keep in mind that the classic cinnamon and vanilla flavors create the perfect foundation that you don’t want to overpower.
How long does the Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe take to prepare and bake?
The overall process takes roughly 50 minutes including about 5 minutes for prep and 45 minutes for baking. The sauce takes an additional 5 minutes to prepare while it bakes.
Can I prepare the vanilla sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the vanilla sauce ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Warm it gently before serving to restore its silky texture and aroma.
Final Thoughts
This Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe is one of those timeless desserts that brings a sense of nostalgia and pure joy every time you make it. It’s wonderfully simple to prepare yet beautifully indulgent—perfect for cozy nights in or special family gatherings. Give yourself the treat of this warm, cinnamon-kissed pudding topped with luscious vanilla sauce, and watch how it becomes an instant favorite in your dessert rotation!
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Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Bread Pudding recipe transforms stale bread into a warm, comforting dessert soaked in a rich custard flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, then baked to golden perfection. The optional vanilla sauce adds a luscious buttery sweetness, making it an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Bread Pudding
- 6 slices stale bread (about 4–5 cups broken into pieces or cubes)
- 3 tbsp butter, divided (1 tbsp + 2 tbsp)
- 4 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups milk
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Optional Vanilla Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter (salted or unsalted)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 8-inch baking dish and grease it evenly with 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Arrange bread: Break the stale bread into pieces or cubes and place them evenly in the buttered baking dish. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the bread pieces, ensuring they are well coated.
- Mix custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, white sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour custard over bread: Evenly pour the custard mixture over the bread pieces in the baking dish, making sure all bread is soaked.
- Bake the pudding: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the bread pudding is set and springs back lightly when touched.
- Prepare vanilla sauce (optional): While the pudding is baking or after it’s done, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over high heat. Once melted, reduce the heat to medium and cook until the butter is lightly browned and fragrant.
- Add sugar and vanilla to sauce: Stir in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the browned butter. Remove the pan from heat and let the sauce rest for 1 to 2 minutes, then stir again to combine.
- Serve: Pour the warm vanilla sauce over individual servings of the bread pudding just before serving for added richness and flavor.
Notes
- Using stale bread works best as it soaks up the custard without falling apart.
- Feel free to add raisins, nuts, or dried fruit for additional texture and flavor.
- The optional vanilla sauce can be refrigerated and gently reheated if prepared in advance.
- Ensure not to over-bake to avoid drying out the pudding; it should be moist and slightly springy to the touch.
