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Classic Bread Pudding with Homemade Vanilla Sauce

A decadent slice of bread pudding topped with rich vanilla sauce, served on a white plate.

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A rich, custardy bread pudding recipe reminiscent of old-fashioned desserts, served warm with a simple vanilla sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups stale bread cubes (French or white bread work well)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • For the Vanilla Sauce: 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the raisins and pecans over the bread, if using.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt until combined.
  4. Slowly whisk in the 3 cups of milk until the mixture is smooth.
  5. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down to help it absorb the liquid. Let it soak for 15 minutes.
  6. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
  7. While the pudding bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
  8. Remove the butter from the heat. Whisk in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the sauce is smooth.
  9. Serve the warm bread pudding with the homemade vanilla sauce poured over the top.

Notes

  • Use bread that is at least one day old for the best texture; very fresh bread can become too mushy.
  • You can make this recipe ahead of time; cover and refrigerate the soaked pudding for up to 4 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute 1/2 cup of the milk with heavy cream.

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