Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is the ultimate comfort dessert—soft, custardy bread baked until golden and finished with a rich, buttery vanilla sauce. This timeless recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a warm, cozy dessert that looks rustic, indulgent, and inviting straight from the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic, old-school comfort dessert with nostalgic flavor
• Uses simple ingredients you likely already have
• Moist, custardy texture with lightly crisp edges
• Rich homemade vanilla sauce takes it over the top
• Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or cozy nights in

Ingredients

Pudding

• 1 (1-pound) loaf (4 cups) French bread, cubed 1½ inches
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup Land O Lakes® Butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large Land O Lakes® Eggs, slightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Vanilla Sauce

• 1/2 cup Land O Lakes® Butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup Land O Lakes® Heavy Whipping Cream
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Base

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or similar baking dish.
3. Place the cubed French bread evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the bread cubes.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

5. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and 1/4 cup butter.
6. Heat until the butter is completely melted and the milk is warm (do not boil).
7. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
8. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and nutmeg.
9. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.

Step 3: Assemble the Pudding

10. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and raisins.
11. Press the bread gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.
12. Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard fully.

Step 4: Bake

13. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
14. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Step 5: Make the Vanilla Sauce

15. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and heavy whipping cream.
16. Cook, stirring constantly, until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve.
17. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring continuously, until slightly thickened.
18. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 6: Serve

19. Spoon warm bread pudding onto plates.
20. Drizzle generously with warm vanilla sauce before serving.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Day-old bread works best for maximum custardy texture
• Toast fresh bread lightly if it’s very soft
• Serve sauce warm for the best consistency
• Add extra raisins on top for visual appeal

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
• Add a dusting of powdered sugar for presentation
• Garnish with mint or cinnamon for contrast

Storage / Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store covered up to 4 days
• Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave
• Sauce: Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the pudding and prepare the sauce separately. Reheat before serving.

Can I omit raisins?
Yes, though they add classic flavor and texture.

Why is my pudding dry?
It may have been overbaked or not enough soaking time before baking.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a timeless dessert that delivers warmth, comfort, and rich flavor in every bite. With its custardy interior and buttery vanilla sauce, this recipe is perfect for sharing and guaranteed to bring back fond memories.

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