Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Introduction:
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a nostalgic dessert that combines the comforting flavors of warm, spiced bread pudding with a luscious vanilla sauce. Made with simple pantry staples, this dessert transforms leftover bread into a rich and indulgent treat. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions when you want to serve something classic and heartwarming.

Ingredients:

For the Bread Pudding:

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (French, brioche, or any sturdy white bread)
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similarly sized oven-safe dish.

1. Prepare the Bread Pudding:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
• Add the cubed bread to the mixture, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
• If using, fold in the raisins.
• Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, then add the soaked bread mixture on top, spreading it out evenly.

1. Bake the Bread Pudding:

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

1. Make the Vanilla Sauce:

• While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted and the sugars are dissolved.
• Gradually stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

1. Serve:

• Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Spoon warm vanilla sauce over each serving of bread pudding.
• Serve warm, and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
• If you prefer a firmer texture, reduce the amount of milk slightly or add another egg.
• For added flavor, you can sprinkle the top of the bread pudding with additional cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

Recommendation:
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also delicious served with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This dessert is best enjoyed warm, but it can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a tasty treat the next day.

Relish the comforting and timeless flavors of Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, a dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal!