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Every time I make this Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, I am instantly transported back to those cozy Sunday afternoons at my grandmother’s house. The sweet, warm aroma of baked bread mingling with rich vanilla filling the air created an atmosphere of love and comfort. I can still picture my grandmother expertly combining the simple ingredients, her hands working precisely, and the gentle laughter of my family echoing around the table. It felt like magic watching it transform into a beautiful dessert that we would devour with such joy.
As I gather my own family around the kitchen, I can’t help but share this recipe that has become a cherished part of our gatherings. I want you to experience that same warmth and comfort in your home, and I promise that once you try it, you’ll feel that nostalgic joy, too. So let’s dive into this delicious potion of sweetness together!
How to Make Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cubed stale bread | 4 cups |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Large eggs | 3 |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Raisins (optional) | 1/2 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (for the sauce) |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup (for the sauce) |
| Milk (for the sauce) | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp (for the sauce) |
Personal note: I love sneaking in a handful of fresh fruit like blueberries; it adds a delightful burst of flavor that my family adores!
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, this is key for achieving that perfectly baked pudding. It sets the stage for the magic to happen!
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Take those 4 cups of cubed stale bread and toss them into a large bowl. If you have some leftover bread slices, this is the perfect time to use them up! The staler, the better; it soaks up all the goodness.
Step 3: Make the Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of milk, 3 large eggs, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and 1 tsp of ground cinnamon. You want it to be creamy and smooth—just like a warm hug!
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Step 4: Combine Everything
Once your mixture is smooth, pour it over the bread cubes in the large bowl, gently pressing the bread down so it soaks up all that luscious liquid. If you’re adding raisins, now’s the time! They give a wonderful chewy bite that complements the creamy pudding.
Step 5: Pour Into a Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with some butter. Then, pour your bread pudding mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Be sure to admire the simple beauty of it; you’re creating something incredible!
Step 6: Bake It Up
Pop your baking dish into that preheated oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is set and golden brown. The smell wafting through your house will have you counting the minutes until you can take a bite!
Step 7: Make the Vanilla Sauce
While your pudding is baking, you can prepare the heavenly vanilla sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1/4 cup of milk, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract until it’s smooth and silky.
Step 8: Let it Cool
Once the pudding comes out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This waiting time is the hardest part, but trust me—it’s worth it!
Step 9: Serve with Drizzle
When ready to serve, drizzle that luscious vanilla sauce over individual portions of bread pudding. You can be generous here; it’s a treat after all!
Step 10: Enjoy!
Now, gather your loved ones, dig into the warm, comforting bread pudding, and savor the flavors that bring back such beloved memories. You’re going to love this!
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Why I Love Making This Dish
What makes this Old Fashioned Bread Pudding truly special is how it feels like home. It’s the kind of dish that gathers everyone around the table, igniting laughter and stories amidst bites of gooey sweetness. It’s as if each spoonful holds a piece of my beloved grandmother’s heart, and sharing it with my family makes the memory more special.
What You’ll Need
You don’t need anything fancy to whip this up. A large mixing bowl, a whisk, and a simple baking dish will do the trick. You might also want a good wooden spatula for stirring if you’re like me and prefer a homely feel to your kitchenwares.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use stale bread. Fresh bread won’t soak like stale bread, and you want every cube to be fully infused with that eggy goodness.
- Let it sit. If you have time, let the bread mixture sit for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the bread absorb even more of that delicious liquid.
- Don’t skip the sauce! The creamy vanilla sauce adds that luxurious touch that takes the pudding from good to unforgettable!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
Pair this delightful bread pudding with a dollop of whipped cream or even some vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch! If you want a little crunch, some toasted nuts sprinkled on top could really elevate the dish.
Leftovers
Oh, the leftovers! If you’re lucky enough to have some, store them in an airtight container in the fridge—though I doubt they’ll last long! To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Imagine the joy everyone will feel to discover this sweet treat waiting for them in the fridge!
FAQ Section
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before, cover the dish, and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
Can I add other fruits?
Definitely! I’ve added bananas and even peaches before. Just make sure they’re well-drained or cut into small pieces to maintain the right texture.
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What if I don’t have raisins?
No worries! You can omit them or replace them with chopped nuts or even chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce has become a cherished favorite in my household. Each time I prepare it, I am filled with joy thinking about the smiles on my family’s faces. I’m so excited for you to try it! I know you’ll love how simple yet rewarding it is to make this dish. When your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time, you’ll be delighted knowing you’ve created something magical in your own kitchen. Let me know how it turns out; I can’t wait to hear your stories!