Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
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A Timeless Treat from Grandma’s Kitchen
There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of bread pudding, especially when it’s made from a cherished family recipe. This Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the air was filled with the enticing aromas of baked goods and love. Whether you’re enjoying it as a dessert or a sweet brunch item, this versatile dish is perfect for inviting family and friends to gather around the table. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories and traditions that come with it.
What Makes This Recipe Special
You might wonder, why choose this old-fashioned bread pudding among other dessert options? Here are a few compelling reasons:
Budget-Friendly: With simple, affordable ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dessert that doesn’t break the bank.
Comfort Food Done Right: This recipe evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort, making it an ideal choice for cozy evenings or family gatherings.
Easy to Make: With just a bit of prep and patience while it bakes, this pudding requires minimal skills, perfect for novice cooks or busy weeknights.
Kid-Approved: The sweetness of the bread pudding and vanilla sauce, combined with the chewiness of raisins, makes this a hit with children and adults alike.
"This dish took me right back to my childhood! The vanilla sauce was the perfect touch!" – A satisfied home cook.
The Cooking Process Explained
Preparing Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is a delightful journey into the world of comforting desserts. You’ll start with a handful of simple ingredients, then follow an easy step-by-step guide to create a dish that will warm your heart.
What You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking process, gather these essential ingredients:
- Cubed white bread: 4 cups (8 slices)
- Raisins: 1/2 cup
- Milk: 2 cups
- Butter: 1/4 cup (plus 1/2 cup for the sauce)
- Sugar: 1/2 cup (plus 1/2 cup for the sauce)
- Eggs: 2 (slightly beaten)
- Vanilla: 1 tablespoon (plus 1 tablespoon for the sauce)
- Ground nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon
- Firmly packed brown sugar: 1/2 cup
- Heavy whipping cream: 1/2 cup
Feel free to swap the raisins for dried cherries or cranberries for a fun twist!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed white bread and raisins.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk and 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat until the butter melts (this should take about 4 to 7 minutes).
- Pour the warm milk mixture over the bread and raisins, allowing it to mingle for 10 minutes.
- Gently stir in the sugar, slightly beaten eggs, vanilla, and ground nutmeg until everything is well-combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- For the vanilla sauce, combine the remaining butter, sugar, brown sugar, and heavy whipping cream in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until thickened (about 5 to 8 minutes). Finally, stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla, and remove from heat.
- Serve the warm bread pudding with the luscious vanilla sauce drizzled on top.
How to Plate and Pair
For an inviting presentation, serve grandma’s bread pudding warm in individual bowls, drizzled generously with the vanilla sauce. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for extra decadence.
If you want to elevate the experience, consider pairing it with:
- A side of fresh berries to add a refreshing touch.
- A cup of spiced chai or coffee for a cozy drink pairing.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you are fortunate enough to have leftovers (which I doubt!), here’s how to store them properly:
Refrigeration: Store leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for individual servings or in the oven at 350 degrees F until heated through.
Freezing: You can freeze baked bread pudding for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To make your baking experience even smoother, consider these expert tips:
Stale Bread is Best: Using slightly stale bread helps it absorb the milk mixture better, resulting in a richer, creamier texture.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to enhance the flavor profile.
Don’t Rush the Baking: Ensure the center is fully set before removing it from the oven for the best consistency.
Creative Twists
While Grandma’s recipe is a classic, here are some creative variations you might want to try:
Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delicious chocolatey twist.
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Citrus Zing: Zest some lemon or orange into the mixture for a refreshing contrast.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare?
Prep time is around 15 minutes, and baking takes between 40 to 50 minutes.
Can I substitute other types of bread?
Absolutely! While white bread is traditional, consider brioche or challah for a richer flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage!
Is this recipe easy to scale?
Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients while keeping the cooking times consistent for larger gatherings.
This Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for making memories around the table. Enjoy!
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed white bread and raisins.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk and 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat until the butter melts (about 4 to 7 minutes).
- Pour the warm milk mixture over the bread and raisins, allowing it to mingle for 10 minutes.
- Gently stir in the sugar, slightly beaten eggs, vanilla, and ground nutmeg until well-combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Combine the remaining butter, sugar, brown sugar, and heavy whipping cream in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until thickened (about 5 to 8 minutes).
- Finally, stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla, and remove from heat.
- Serve the warm bread pudding with the vanilla sauce drizzled on top, optionally adding whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
