There’s something truly comforting about Grandma’s old fashioned bread pudding. This classic dessert has been a family favorite for generations, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Made with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection it’s the perfect way to turn day-old bread into a rich and creamy treat.
What sets this recipe apart is the luscious vanilla sauce that drapes over the pudding adding an extra layer of sweetness and flavor. It’s a dessert that’s easy to make yet impressively delicious, perfect for any occasion from holiday gatherings to cozy weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe that’s sure to become a staple in our kitchens.
Ingredients
To create Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, we start with simple, classic ingredients that deliver rich flavors and comforting textures. Below are the carefully measured components for both the bread pudding and the luscious vanilla sauce to ensure perfect results every time.
Ingredients for Bread Pudding
- 6 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (French bread or brioche work best)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins or chopped nuts for added texture
Ingredients for Vanilla Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bread (day-old, cubed) | 6 cups | French bread or brioche |
| Eggs | 4 large | For pudding; yolks separate for sauce |
| Whole milk | 2 cups (pudding), 1.5 cups (sauce) | Use fresh, whole milk for creaminess |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup (pudding), 0.5 cup (sauce) | Adds richness and smooth texture |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup (pudding), 0.5 cup (sauce) | Sweetens pudding and sauce |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp (pudding), 1 tsp (sauce) | Pure vanilla for authentic flavor |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons | Warms the pudding |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds depth |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons (pudding), 1 tablespoon (sauce) | For moisture and richness |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons | Thickens the vanilla sauce |
| Raisins or nuts (optional) | 1/2 cup | Adds texture and sweetness |
This selection of ingredients forms the foundation of our Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding, ensuring every bite is tender, flavorful, and perfectly complemented by the smooth vanilla sauce.
Equipment Needed
To prepare Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce perfectly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Each tool helps us achieve the ideal texture and flavor, ensuring the final dish is both rich and comforting.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Mixing Bowls: We need a medium and a large mixing bowl. One for whisking eggs and liquids, another for combining bread with custard mixture.
- Whisk: A sturdy whisk ensures thorough blending of eggs, sugar, milk, and cream to create a smooth custard base.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements keep our pudding consistent every time.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish works best for even baking and easy serving.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the day-old bread into uniform cubes.
- Saucepan: Essential for gently heating and preparing the vanilla sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Rubber Spatula: Useful for stirring custard, folding ingredients, and scraping every bit into the baking dish.
Optional but Helpful
- Cooling Rack: To let the pudding rest immediately after baking without sogginess.
- Sifter: For dusting cinnamon or powdered sugar on top for presentation.
- Kitchen Timer: To precisely monitor baking and sauce cooking times.
| Equipment | Purpose | Size/Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Mix custard and ingredients | Medium & large |
| Whisk | Blend eggs, sugar, and liquids | Standard kitchen whisk |
| Measuring Cups | Measure liquids and dry ingredients | Standard set (1 cup, ½ cup, etc.) |
| Baking Dish | Bake bread pudding | 9×13-inch glass or ceramic |
| Knife & Cutting Board | Cut bread into cubes | Sharp chef’s knife, medium board |
| Saucepan | Cook vanilla sauce | Medium size, heavy-bottomed |
| Rubber Spatula | Stir and fold ingredients | Flexible silicone |
| Cooling Rack | Cool pudding after baking | Standard wire rack |
| Sifter | Dust spices or powdered sugar | Fine mesh sieve |
| Kitchen Timer | Track baking and cooking times | Digital or manual |
We make sure every piece of equipment is clean and ready before starting, which helps our baking process go smoothly and creates that classic old-fashioned texture and flavor Grandma loved.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To enjoy Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce without the last-minute rush, follow these make-ahead steps to prepare and store the dish properly while preserving its rich, comforting flavor.
Preparing the Bread Pudding Ahead
- Assemble the Bread Pudding: Combine the bread cubes, custard mixture, and any optional additions such as raisins or nuts in your baking dish according to the recipe instructions.
- Cover Securely: Seal the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorb unwanted odors in the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate: Store the assembled pudding in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Baking From Refrigerated
- Remove the pudding from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
- Increase the baking time by 10 to 15 minutes compared to fresh preparation to ensure the center is fully cooked.
- Use a toothpick or knife to check doneness; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Make-Ahead Vanilla Sauce
To complement your bread pudding perfectly, the vanilla sauce can be prepared in advance using these steps:
- Cook the Sauce: Prepare the vanilla sauce following the recipe.
- Cool Completely: Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature.
- Store Properly: Transfer the sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently: Warm the sauce over low heat while stirring before serving. Avoid boiling to maintain silky texture.
Make-Ahead Timeline Summary
| Step | Timing | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assemble bread pudding | Up to 24 hours before baking | Covered in baking dish | Helps flavors meld |
| Refrigerate | Up to 24 hours | Covered airtight | Prevents drying and odor intake |
| Vanilla sauce preparation | Up to 3 days before serving | Airtight container in fridge | Reheat gently before use |
| Baking from fridge | After 24-hour chilling | N/A | Add 10-15 minutes to baking time |
By following these make-ahead instructions, we ensure our Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding retains its moist texture and deep flavor, while the vanilla sauce stays luscious and perfect for drizzling. This approach frees up time on the day of serving and lets the nostalgic flavors develop beautifully.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft our Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce. We guide you through preparing the pudding, baking it to perfection, and making the rich vanilla sauce.
Preparing the Bread Pudding
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and freshly grated nutmeg until fully blended.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down ensuring it soaks up the custard.
- If desired, fold in raisins or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Allow the mixture to sit for 15 minutes at room temperature so the bread absorbs all the custard.
Baking the Bread Pudding
- Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Place the dish in the center rack of the oven.
- Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and place on a cooling rack for 10 minutes to set before serving.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F | – | Grease baking dish |
| Bake pudding | 350°F | 45-50 minutes | Top should be golden brown |
| Cool before serving | Room temp | 10 minutes | Helps pudding set |
Making the Vanilla Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat while stirring constantly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth.
- Slowly temper the egg yolk mixture by adding hot cream mixture gradually while whisking.
- Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and stir in pure vanilla extract.
- Allow the vanilla sauce to cool slightly before drizzling over the warm bread pudding.
“The creamy vanilla sauce is what truly elevates Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding, infusing every bite with luscious flavor.”
By precisely following these instructions, our timeless bread pudding dish will deliver classic flavor and comforting texture every time.
Serving Suggestions
To fully celebrate Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, we recommend serving it warm. This enhances the rich custard-like texture of the pudding and allows the smooth vanilla sauce to melt slightly over each piece, creating an irresistible combination.
How to Serve
- Cut the pudding into squares about 2 inches wide for easy plating and sharing.
- Spoon a generous amount of the warm vanilla sauce over each serving to emphasize the classic flavor.
- For added appeal, we often garnish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. This subtle spice highlights the pudding’s cozy flavors.
- Offer a side of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to provide a cool, creamy contrast.
- For special occasions, serve with a small bowl of fresh berries or a sprinkling of chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for texture and color.
Suggested Beverage Pairings
Pairing the bread pudding with the right beverages further elevates the experience:
| Beverage | Description |
|---|---|
| Hot Coffee or Espresso | Complements the warm spices and creamy texture |
| Spiced Chai Latte | Echoes the cinnamon and nutmeg notes |
| Sweet Dessert Wine (e.g., Moscato) | Enhances the pudding’s caramelized flavors |
| Warm Apple Cider | Adds a fruity and spiced accompaniment |
Storage & Reheating Tips for Serving Later
To serve leftovers with the same fresh taste:
- Store in an airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds or in a 325°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Warm the vanilla sauce separately and drizzle on top just before serving.
By following these serving suggestions, we ensure every bite of this classic dessert delights the senses and continues the tradition of comforting homemade goodness.
Storage and Leftovers
To keep Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce tasting fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Here’s how we manage leftovers and store the dessert safely for later enjoyment.
Refrigeration
Once the bread pudding has cooled to room temperature, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The rich custard base remains creamy, and the flavors continue to meld beautifully during refrigeration.
The vanilla sauce should be stored separately in a sealed container. It will keep well in the fridge for about 5 days.
| Item | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Bread Pudding | Airtight container | 3 to 4 days |
| Vanilla Sauce | Sealed container | 5 days |
Freezing Leftovers
We can freeze bread pudding to extend its shelf life without sacrificing texture or flavor. Wrap the cooled pudding tightly in plastic wrap then a sheet of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
To defrost, place the pudding in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a preheated 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 to 25 minutes, covering loosely with foil to maintain moisture. Warm the vanilla sauce separately on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Reheating Tips
- Oven reheating yields the best texture — crispy edges with a soft creamy center.
- For quick reheating, microwave slices on medium power for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Drizzle warm vanilla sauce generously over the reheated pudding to revive the dessert’s full richness.
Leftover Ideas
If you want to get creative with extra bread pudding:
- Use it as a base for bread pudding French toast by slicing and pan-frying.
- Layer warmed pudding with fresh berries and whipped cream for a layered parfait.
- Serve chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing summer dessert.
“Proper storage preserves the nostalgic flavors and creamy texture of Grandma’s classic bread pudding, ensuring every bite delights just like the first.”
By following these storage and leftovers tips, we maintain the integrity and warmth of our beloved Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce—ready to enjoy again whenever the craving hits.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is more than just a dessert—it’s a warm embrace from the past that brings comfort to any table. With its simple ingredients and timeless preparation, it offers a delicious way to turn everyday bread into a memorable treat.
By mastering this recipe and its make-ahead tips, we can enjoy a classic dessert that fits perfectly into busy schedules and special occasions alike. Whether served warm with a dusting of spice or paired with your favorite beverage, this pudding promises to become a cherished favorite in our kitchens for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding special?
Grandma’s bread pudding is special because it uses simple, classic ingredients and transforms day-old bread into a rich, creamy dessert. The addition of a luscious vanilla sauce makes it comforting and perfect for any occasion.
What ingredients are needed for the bread pudding?
The recipe includes day-old bread, eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional raisins or nuts. The vanilla sauce uses basic pantry staples like milk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
What kitchen tools do I need to prepare this recipe?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a baking dish, knife, cutting board, saucepan, and a rubber spatula. Optional items like a cooling rack and kitchen timer can help but aren’t required.
Can I prepare the bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pudding up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. The vanilla sauce can also be made ahead. This helps reduce stress on the day of serving while allowing flavors to develop.
How do I bake Grandma’s bread pudding?
Preheat your oven and soak the bread mixture in the custard. Pour into a baking dish and bake until golden and set. Then, prepare the vanilla sauce to serve warm over the pudding for a creamy finish.
What are some good serving suggestions?
Serve warm with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg. Pair it with whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream. Hot coffee, spiced chai latte, dessert wine, or warm apple cider make great drinks to complement it.
How should I store leftover bread pudding and vanilla sauce?
Store bread pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Vanilla sauce lasts up to 5 days refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze the pudding up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.
Can leftover bread pudding be used in other recipes?
Yes! Leftover bread pudding can be transformed into French toast or layered with berries for a parfait-style dessert, letting you enjoy the flavors in new and delicious ways.