Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce

You might remember your grandmother pulling a warm, fragrant bread pudding from the oven, its golden crust beckoning you to take a bite. This old-fashioned dessert not only transforms stale bread into a comforting treat but also carries a rich history that reflects resourceful cooking. With its simple ingredients and the addition of a velvety vanilla sauce, it’s a dish that invites both nostalgia and personal creativity. So, what makes this classic recipe endure through generations, and how can you put your own spin on it?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bread pudding is a beloved dessert that combines comfort and creativity in every bite. You’ll love this recipe because it’s versatile and customizable. You can use various types of bread, so feel free to experiment with what you have at home.

Raisins and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg can be adjusted or even omitted, depending on your taste preferences. The recipe allows you to choose different milks, such as whole, skim, or plant-based options.

Toppings are another area for customization; consider adding ice cream, whipped cream, or nuts to enhance the flavor. Plus, you can prepare the vanilla sauce in advance and refrigerate it for convenience.

Nutritionally, one serving contains 210 calories, with a good balance of carbs, fats, and protein. You can make it healthier by using whole grain bread for added fiber or reducing sugar. Additionally, the dish features a high fat content, making it quite energy-dense for those looking to manage their caloric intake.

Finally, the ease of preparation is a big plus. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dessert in under an hour.

The baking process is clear and easy to follow, making it a great choice for any cook, regardless of skill level.

History

With its frugal origins, bread pudding has a rich history that dates back to the 11th and 12th centuries in Europe. It began as a practical solution to using leftover, stale bread during times of food scarcity. People combined stale bread with simple ingredients like boiling water, sugar, and spices.

Over time, in the 13th century, eggs and milk were added, transforming the dish into a richer dessert. Main components like stale bread, milk or cream, and eggs are essential for creating this comforting dish.

As bread pudding spread to different countries, various adaptations emerged. For example, Mexico created *capirotada*, Egypt has *Om Ali*, and India’s version is called *shahi tukda*. In America, early settlers used cornmeal instead of wheat due to limited resources.

Historically, every English household had a pudding basin to collect stale bread, ensuring nothing went to waste. This dish became a staple in many homes, evolving from a basic recipe to one that features artisanal breads and creative toppings.

Today, you can find diverse versions worldwide, including the popular New Orleans style, which is served with nuts and a bourbon-infused sauce. This evolution highlights bread pudding’s enduring appeal and adaptability throughout the centuries.

Recipe

Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe

Bread pudding is a comforting dessert that transforms stale bread into a deliciously warm treat. This recipe combines the simple ingredients of white bread, milk, eggs, and spices, resulting in a soft and custardy pudding that’s perfect for any occasion. Topped with a rich vanilla sauce, this dessert is sure to please everyone at the table. Bread pudding has a rich history as a frugal dish, dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries, highlighting its role in resourceful cooking.

Whether you’re looking to use up leftover bread or simply indulge in a classic dessert, this bread pudding is easy to make and requires minimal effort. With just a few steps, you can create a delightful dish that can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a scoop of ice cream for an extra touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized loaf white bread (approximately 4 cups when cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 1.5-quart bread pan.
2. Cut the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl. If using, add the raisins to the bread.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk and unsalted butter. Stir until the butter is melted, then pour the mixture over the bread cubes. Allow the bread to soak for about 10 minutes.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the salt, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon until well combined.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the soaked bread and gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Transfer the mixture into the greased bread pan and spread it evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.
8. While the pudding is baking, prepare the vanilla sauce by combining the sauce ingredients (except for the vanilla) in a medium-sized saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a full boil and thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
9. Once the bread pudding is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Spoon the warm bread pudding into bowls and drizzle with the vanilla sauce. Optionally, serve with ice cream for an extra treat.

Extra Tips

When making bread pudding, feel free to experiment with different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, for varied flavors and textures.

You can also customize the dish by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or other dried fruits. To guarantee the best results, make sure the bread is slightly stale, as this helps it absorb the custard mixture better.

If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the microwave for a quick and satisfying dessert.

Final Thoughts

Often, bread pudding is a beloved dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. To make your bread pudding truly special, consider enhancing it with various flavor combinations. Pair it with vanilla, caramel, or chocolate for added richness. Adding optional ingredients like raisins or nuts can create a delightful contrast in texture. For a more elegant presentation, serve bread pudding in individual portions with sauce drizzled over each slice. This not only looks appealing but also allows everyone to enjoy their own serving.

Balance the sweetness of the pudding with lighter options like whipped cream or a mixed berry salad to refresh the palate. Experimenting with different types of bread, spices, and sauces can lead to unique variations of bread pudding that suit your taste. Classic pairings like vanilla ice cream or warm caramel sauce can enhance the overall experience. Whether for a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, bread pudding can be a crowd-pleaser.

With these tips, you can impress your guests and create memorable moments around this comforting dessert. Enjoy your baking and the delightful results it brings!

FAQ

• Use stale bread for the best texture.
• Popular additives include raisins, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
• Your custard should consist of milk, eggs, sugar, and melted butter. Understanding inventory management helps ensure you utilize leftover ingredients effectively.

Baking:

• Bake at 350°F for 40-50 minutes.
• The center should reach 165-175°F for safety.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot with whipped cream, vanilla sauce, or fruit compote.
• For a twist, try pan-frying leftovers as French toast.

Common Mistakes:

• To avoid underbaking, use a thermometer to check the center.
• Guarantee the bread is well-coated with custard to prevent dryness.
• Monitor baking time closely to avoid overbaking.

Variations:

• For savory options, consider adding bacon, ham, or cheese.
• Candied walnuts can enhance the texture and flavor.