If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, you absolutely have to try this Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe. It’s a comforting classic that transforms simple stale bread into a luscious, custardy delight topped with a silky vanilla sauce. Every bite is a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and spiced flavors that will make you feel as if you’re indulging in a treasured homemade treat. Whether it’s a weekday dessert or a special brunch finale, this recipe brings a nostalgic sweetness that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity. Using just a handful of pantry staples, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture, sweetness, and flavor that make this dish unforgettable.
- 4 cups stale bread, cubed: Using stale bread allows it to soak up the custard perfectly without becoming mushy.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and richness to the custard base.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the flavors with just the right amount of sweetness.
- 4 large eggs: Essential for binding the custard and giving it structure.
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with a warm, aromatic sweetness.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Provides a gentle spice that complements the vanilla.
- A pinch of salt: Enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Used in the sauce, adds a rich, silky texture.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the vanilla sauce smoothly without graininess.
- 1/2 cup milk or cream: Makes the sauce creamy and luscious.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds extra depth and vanilla aroma to the sauce.
How to Make Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, generously grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and to help the pudding bake evenly with a beautiful crust.
Step 2: Arrange the Bread
Place the cubed stale bread evenly into the greased baking dish. Stale bread is preferable because it soaks up the custard without falling apart, resulting in a perfect texture.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and fully combined. This custard mixture is the heart of the recipe, imparting flavor and creaminess to the pudding.
Step 4: Combine and Soak
Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, making sure every piece is well coated. Let the bread soak in the custard for about 10 minutes so it absorbs all that rich, spiced milk mixture, which ensures a wonderfully tender interior.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden brown top with the custard set firmly but still soft in the center. The aroma while it bakes is utterly irresistible.
Step 6: Make the Vanilla Sauce
While the pudding bakes, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in powdered sugar and milk (or cream) until smooth and luscious. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the sauce’s creamy vanilla flavor. This sauce will be the luxurious finishing touch.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once baked, serve the bread pudding warm with a generous drizzle of the freshly made vanilla sauce. The heat from the pudding slightly melts the sauce, creating a sticky, sweet coating that everyone swoons over.
How to Serve Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg or a light dusting of cinnamon on top for an extra fragrant touch. Chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch, contrasting the soft custard beautifully. Fresh berries or a few mint leaves can brighten up each serving visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This custard bread pudding makes a terrific dessert paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to amplify the creamy indulgence. For brunch, try it alongside a sharp cheddar cheese plate or fresh fruit salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in ramekins for an elegant presentation, or layer bread pudding with berries and sauce in a glass trifle dish for a family-style wow moment. For a festive touch, top with caramelized sugar shards or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld in the fridge, making it even more delicious when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked bread pudding without the vanilla sauce for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to maintain freshness. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover custard bread pudding gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through, which helps retain its texture. Microwave reheating works too but do so in short bursts to avoid drying out. Warm the vanilla sauce separately and pour over just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
While fresh bread can be used, it tends to absorb too much custard and become overly soggy. Stale or day-old bread is better for maintaining structure and absorbing just enough custard for a perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute whole milk with a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk, and use a vegan butter alternative for the sauce. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will still be delightful.
Can I add fruit or nuts to the bread pudding?
Absolutely! Adding raisins, chopped apples, dried cranberries, or toasted nuts can elevate the pudding with added texture and flavor. Just toss them into the bread cubes before pouring the custard.
How long does it take to bake this bread pudding?
The bread pudding bakes in about 45 minutes at 350°F (175°C), which is enough time to fully set the custard and develop a golden crust on top.
Can I prepare the custard mixture ahead of time?
You can prepare the custard mixture a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. However, soak the bread cubes in the custard right before baking to avoid sogginess.
Final Thoughts
This Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe has all the makings of a true crowd-pleaser—simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and utterly delicious results. I encourage you to make it your next dessert or brunch treat. Once you experience that warm, custardy sweetness topped with luscious vanilla sauce, it’s sure to become a comforting favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
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Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a comforting and classic dessert featuring cubes of stale bread soaked in a rich, spiced custard and baked until golden and set. Served warm with a luscious homemade vanilla sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy treat or a satisfying finish to any meal.
Ingredients
Bread Pudding
- 4 cups stale bread, cubed
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Vanilla Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking of the pudding.
- Add Bread to Dish: Place the cubed stale bread evenly in the greased baking dish, forming the base for the pudding.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak Bread in Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all bread is well soaked. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the custard fully.
- Bake the Pudding: Bake the soaked bread mixture in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Prepare Vanilla Sauce: While the pudding bakes, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in powdered sugar and milk or cream until the sauce is smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve: Once baked, serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled generously with the homemade vanilla sauce.
Notes
- Use stale bread for best texture; fresh bread may make the pudding too soggy.
- Whole milk is recommended for a richer pudding, but you can substitute with 2% milk if preferred.
- Letting the bread soak sufficiently allows the custard to penetrate and ensures a creamy texture.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Adding raisins, nuts, or dried fruits can add texture and flavor.
