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Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Updated on 4 min read

Quick Description

This classic, old-fashioned bread pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Made with cubed white bread, raisins, and a buttery, rich vanilla sauce, it’s an irresistible treat that’ll transport you straight to Grandma’s kitchen. Simple ingredients, lots of love, and the perfect balance of sweetness make this bread pudding a timeless favorite.

Servings & Timing

  • Serves: 8
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
  • Total Time: ~1 hour

Ingredients List

  • 4 cups (8 slices) cubed white bread
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Vanilla Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 1/4 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cubed white bread and raisins. Set aside.
  2. Make the Custard:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of milk, 1/2 cup sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Pour this custard mixture over the cubed bread and raisins, pressing the bread down gently to soak up the liquid. Let it sit for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the mixture.
  3. Add Butter & Bake:
    Dot the top of the bread mixture with the 1/4 cup of butter (cut into small pieces). Bake the bread pudding in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Make the Vanilla Sauce:
    While the bread pudding is baking, make the vanilla sauce. In a saucepan, combine the 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, and 1 1/4 cups milk. Stir over medium heat until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil, about 5–7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Serve:
    Once the bread pudding is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with the homemade vanilla sauce poured over the top. Enjoy!

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbs: 42g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 22g

Benefits

  • Comforting & Classic: This bread pudding recipe is a classic comfort food that brings back memories of family dinners.
  • Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, it’s the perfect way to use up stale bread.
  • Rich & Decadent: The vanilla sauce adds a rich, creamy layer that makes this bread pudding irresistible.

Additional Notes

  • Customizable: You can substitute the raisins with dried cranberries, chopped apples, or any dried fruit you prefer.
  • For a Lighter Version: Use skim or almond milk and reduce the sugar in both the pudding and vanilla sauce.

Dietary Info

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread if needed
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and a dairy-free vanilla sauce substitute.

Brief Introduction

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a comforting, sweet treat that’s been passed down through generations. With its warm, soft bread and the rich, creamy vanilla sauce, it’s a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for any occasion, this simple yet satisfying recipe will never go out of style!

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

  1. Prepare bread and raisins in a baking dish.
  2. Mix custard with milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, then pour over the bread.
  3. Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Make the vanilla sauce and pour over the pudding.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • White Bread: Use any type of bread you have on hand, though white bread works best for the soft, custardy texture. If you’re using a denser bread like whole wheat, you may want to soak it for a little longer.
  • Raisins: You can use any dried fruit in place of raisins, such as dried apricots, cranberries, or even chopped dates.
  • Butter: Feel free to substitute with dairy-free butter for a vegan version of this dish.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Spicy Bread Pudding: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth and spice.
  • Top with Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
  • Add a Glaze: Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the pudding for an added touch of sweetness.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: This bread pudding freezes well. Freeze individual portions in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

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