Ingredients
For the Pudding
- 4 cups (8 slices) cubed white bread
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs, slightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Vanilla Sauce
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Pudding
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread and raisins.
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk and 1/4 cup butter over medium heat until the butter melts (about 4–7 minutes).
- Pour the warm milk mixture over the bread and raisins. Let it soak for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
- Add the sugar, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg to the soaked bread mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, or until the pudding is set in the center and golden brown on top.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Sauce
- In a 1-quart saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, brown sugar, and heavy whipping cream.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and comes to a full boil (about 5–8 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the bread pudding is baked, allow it to cool slightly.
- Serve warm with the vanilla sauce drizzled generously over the top.
Tips for Success
- Stale Bread Works Best: If you don’t have fresh bread, slightly stale bread absorbs the liquid better for a creamier texture.
- Add Some Extras: Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Serve Warm: The pudding tastes best warm with the sauce freshly drizzled.
This Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a timeless dessert that brings comfort and joy to any table. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this sweet, nostalgic delight!