Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

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

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread and raisins.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and 1/4 cup butter over medium heat until the butter melts (about 4–7 minutes).
4. Pour the warm milk mixture over the bread and raisins. Let it soak for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
5. Add the sugar, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg to the soaked bread mixture. Stir until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
7. 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

1. In a 1-quart saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, brown sugar, and heavy whipping cream.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and comes to a full boil (about 5–8 minutes).
3. 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

1. Stale Bread Works Best: If you don’t have fresh bread, slightly stale bread absorbs the liquid better for a creamier texture.
2. Add Some Extras: Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
3. 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!