Description
This classic bread pudding recipe is a comforting and delicious dessert that transforms stale bread into a moist, flavorful treat. With a rich custard base flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, it’s baked to perfection and topped with an optional vanilla sauce for extra indulgence. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it promises a warm, sweet finish to your meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread Pudding
- 6 slices stale bread
- 3 tablespoons butter (1 Tablespoon + 2 Tablespoons)
- 4 beaten eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Raisins (optional)
Vanilla Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use 1 tablespoon of butter to thoroughly coat the inside of an 8-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Arrange Bread: Break the stale bread into larger pieces and place them evenly in the buttered baking dish, forming the base for your pudding.
- Butter the Bread: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it evenly over the bread pieces to add richness and moisture.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a bowl, beat the eggs first, then mix in the milk, white sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and optional raisins until the ingredients are well combined.
- Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture over the bread pieces in the baking dish, ensuring each piece is evenly coated and saturated with the custard.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and springs back when lightly touched with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
Notes
- Use stale bread for best texture; slightly dried bread soaks up the custard without becoming too mushy.
- Raisins are optional but add a nice texture and sweetness.
- For a richer pudding, substitute heavy cream for part or all of the milk.
- The vanilla sauce can be warmed and served over the pudding to enhance flavor.
- Ensure the eggs are well beaten for a smooth custard texture.
