Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Introduction

Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a comforting dessert that transforms simple, leftover bread into a rich, indulgent treat. Enhanced with sweet raisins and topped with a creamy vanilla sauce, this dessert combines warmth and nostalgia in every bite. It’s a favorite for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or when you need a satisfying sweet treat. The velvety sauce drizzled over the soft, custardy bread pudding creates an irresistible combination perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding:

• 4 cups stale bread, cubed (brioche, challah, or any soft bread)
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread Pudding:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
   • In a large bowl, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk thoroughly.
   • Add the bread cubes and raisins to the mixture. Gently toss to coat all pieces, allowing the bread to soak for 10 minutes.
   • Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
2. Bake:
   • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pudding is golden brown and set.
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
3. Make the Vanilla Sauce:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir until the butter melts and sugar dissolves.
   • Add vanilla extract and optional cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously until smooth.
4. Serve:
   • Drizzle the warm vanilla sauce over individual servings of bread pudding.

Conclusion

Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a timeless dessert that turns humble ingredients into something spectacular. The warm, custardy pudding combined with the silky vanilla sauce melts in your mouth, offering both comfort and elegance. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special celebration, this dish is a wonderful way to honor traditional flavors while indulging in a touch of sweetness. Serve it warm, and watch it become an instant favorite at the table. 🍞✨🍮