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Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

A generous slice of old-fashioned bread pudding, topped with a rich, creamy sauce, served on a white plate.

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A classic, comforting bread pudding made with stale bread, a rich custard, and a simple vanilla sauce. This easy baked dessert is perfect for using up leftover bread and is a budget-friendly comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
  • For the Vanilla Sauce:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. This helps prevent a soggy pudding.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  4. Add the toasted bread cubes to the egg mixture. Gently press the bread down to ensure it is submerged. If using raisins, stir them in now. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the custard.
  5. Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
  7. While the pudding bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
  8. Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
  9. Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving warm with the vanilla sauce.

Notes

  • Using day-old or slightly stale bread is key for the best texture.
  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute half-and-half for some of the milk.
  • This dessert can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

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