Name: Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-482400H35M19S
Total time: PT-482400H35M19S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups cubed day-old bread; 2 cups milk; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); 1 cup milk; 1/3 cup sugar; 1 egg yolk; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly soft and custardy bread pudding with golden edges.
A nostalgic dessert that’s easy to make with simple pantry staples.
The homemade vanilla sauce elevates it to pure decadence.
A fantastic way to use up day-old bread and reduce waste.
Versatile: Enjoy warm, chilled, or with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bread Pudding

6 cups cubed day-old bread
2 cups milk
3 large eggs
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Vanilla Sauce

1 cup milk
1/3 cup sugar
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Place the cubed bread into the prepared dish.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth. Pour the mixture over the bread, ensuring each piece is soaked.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.

Vanilla Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until it begins to steam.
In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cornstarch. Whisk this mixture into the warm milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolk. Slowly add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to temper the yolk, then whisk the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
Stir in the vanilla extract and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with vanilla sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Add Fruit: Mix in raisins, dried cranberries, or diced apples for extra texture.
Chocolate Twist: Substitute cinnamon and nutmeg with cocoa powder, or sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or slivered almonds for crunch.
Bourbon Sauce: Replace vanilla extract in the sauce with a splash of bourbon for an adult twist.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, flax eggs, and vegan butter.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover bread pudding and sauce in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze the bread pudding (without sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating: Warm bread pudding in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or microwave individual portions. Gently reheat the vanilla sauce on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin.

FAQs

What type of bread works best for bread pudding?

Day-old bread with a sturdy texture, such as French bread, brioche, or challah, is ideal.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, almond, oat, or soy milk are great substitutes for dairy milk.

How do I prevent soggy bread pudding?

Make sure the bread absorbs the custard fully and bake until the center is set.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bread pudding a few hours ahead and bake just before serving. The sauce can also be made in advance and reheated.

Is vanilla sauce necessary?

While it’s not essential, the sauce adds a creamy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the bread pudding.

Can I make a gluten-free version?

Yes, use gluten-free bread, ensuring it’s a type that holds its shape when soaked.

What spices can I use instead of cinnamon and nutmeg?

Try cardamom, allspice, or pumpkin spice for a unique flavor twist.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish and increase baking time slightly.

Why temper the egg yolk for the sauce?

Tempering prevents the yolk from curdling, ensuring a smooth sauce.

How do I know when the bread pudding is done?

The top should be golden, and the pudding should jiggle slightly but not be runny in the center.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is the definition of comfort food done right. With its warm, custardy texture and rich vanilla topping, this dessert feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with variations, this is a dish you’ll turn to time and time again. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this timeless delight!