Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

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Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

There’s something timeless and comforting about a warm dish of old-fashioned bread pudding—the kind that fills the kitchen with the aroma of cinnamon, butter, and vanilla. This classic dessert transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something truly special. Soft on the inside, golden on top, and drizzled with a luscious homemade vanilla sauce, this recipe tastes just like Grandma used to make.

Perfect for cozy family dinners, holidays, or whenever you need a touch of nostalgia, this bread pudding with vanilla sauce is a dessert that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding

  • 4 cups cubed white bread (about 8 slices, day-old bread works best)
  • ½ cup raisins
  • 2 cups milk
  • ¼ cup butter
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

For the Vanilla Sauce

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or similar-sized pan with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread and Raisins

Cut or tear the bread into small cubes and place them in the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the top. If you want softer, plumper raisins, soak them in warm water (or rum!) for 10 minutes before adding them.

Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture

In a medium saucepan, heat milk and butter over medium heat just until the butter melts. Do not let it boil.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
Slowly pour in the warm milk mixture while whisking constantly to prevent scrambling the eggs.

Step 4: Combine and Soak

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and raisins.
Gently press down with the back of a spoon so all the bread soaks up the liquid.
Let sit for about 10–15 minutes to allow the custard to absorb fully into the bread.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
A knife inserted in the center should come out clean, and the pudding should have a soft, custard-like texture.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly while you prepare the vanilla sauce.

How to Make the Vanilla Sauce

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.

Step 2: Add Water and Cook

Gradually stir in boiling water and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 3–5 minutes).

Step 3: Finish the Sauce

Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
Whisk until smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Serve

Spoon warm vanilla sauce over each serving of bread pudding.
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Optional: Top with whipped cream, a dusting of cinnamon, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Tips for the Best Bread Pudding

  • Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread soaks up the custard better without becoming mushy.
  • Customize it: Add chopped apples, pecans, or chocolate chips for a twist.
  • Don’t overbake: The center should be soft and creamy, not dry.
  • Make ahead: Prepare up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving.
  • Add extra richness: Substitute part of the milk with half-and-half or cream.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes.
  • Freeze: Bread pudding freezes well! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

  • Drizzle with warm vanilla or caramel sauce.
  • Add fresh berries for a fruity contrast.
  • Serve with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
  • Enjoy cold for breakfast the next day—it’s just as delicious!

A Taste of Tradition

This Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is more than just a recipe—it’s a piece of history, passed down through generations. Every bite is creamy, buttery, and rich with vanilla warmth. The sweet, custardy bread paired with silky vanilla sauce creates that perfect balance of nostalgia and indulgence.

It’s the kind of dessert that makes you slow down, savor, and remember the simple joys of homemade comfort food.

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