Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a comforting dessert perfect for using up day-old bread. It’s rich, creamy, and gently baked to create a soft, custardy texture that pairs beautifully with a smooth vanilla sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread, cut into cubes
- 2 cups milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Step 2: Place the bread cubes in a greased baking dish and pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to soak all the pieces.
- Step 3: Let the bread soak in the custard for about 10 minutes so it absorbs the liquid fully.
- Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving with warm vanilla sauce.
Tips & Variations
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better custard absorption and texture.
- For added flavor, sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture.
- Try adding raisins or chopped nuts for a delightful texture contrast.
- Use whole milk or cream for a richer custard.
Storage
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The pudding may thicken upon cooling, so you can add a splash of milk when reheating to loosen it slightly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use any type of bread for this pudding?
Yes, most breads work well, but sturdier breads like French bread, brioche, or challah hold up best to soaking and baking without becoming too mushy.
How do I make the vanilla sauce?
Vanilla sauce can be made by warming milk or cream with sugar and vanilla extract, then thickening it slightly with a bit of cornstarch or egg yolk. It’s best served warm alongside the pudding.
PrintCustard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe
This Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a warm and comforting dessert that combines soft, custardy baked bread with a rich vanilla sauce. It’s an easy-to-make classic that transforms simple ingredients like bread, milk, eggs, and sugar into a luscious treat perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Bread Pudding
- 6 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla Sauce
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak bread: Place the cubed bread in a greased baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the custard.
- Bake the bread pudding: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread pudding for 45-50 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted should come out clean.
- Prepare vanilla sauce: While the pudding bakes, in a small saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Serve: Let the bread pudding cool slightly. Serve warm slices topped with the rich vanilla sauce.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best texture as it absorbs custard better.
- For a richer pudding, substitute some of the milk with cream.
- Optional add-ins include raisins, cinnamon, or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Vanilla sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- Ensure the pudding is baked just until set to avoid dryness.
Keywords: custard bread pudding, vanilla sauce, baked dessert, comfort food, easy dessert
