There’s something magical about Grandma’s kitchen—a place where simple ingredients are transformed into unforgettable dishes that leave a lasting impression on our hearts and taste buds. One such classic dessert that has stood the test of time is Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce. This warm, comforting dish combines the sweetness of bread, raisins, and vanilla with a luscious sauce that’s rich and velvety. Whether you’re looking to recreate a cherished family recipe or simply indulge in a nostalgic dessert, this bread pudding is sure to hit the spot.
The History of Bread Pudding
Bread pudding has humble beginnings, originally created as a way to use up stale bread. What started as a frugal dish has now become a beloved dessert, celebrated in kitchens around the world. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, bread pudding has been a staple in many households, often passed down through generations.
In Grandma’s version, the pudding is made with cubed white bread, which absorbs the sweet and creamy custard. The addition of raisins gives it a delightful burst of sweetness, while the vanilla sauce drizzled over the top adds a luxurious finishing touch.
Ingredients for Bread Pudding
For the Bread 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 granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Preparing the Bread Pudding
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the pudding from sticking.
2. Prepare the Bread:
- Cube the white bread into bite-sized pieces. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the raisins over the top, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
3. Make the Custard:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm, but not boiling. Remove from heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg. Gradually add the warm milk mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from cooking.
4. Combine and Bake:
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and raisins, pressing down gently with a spoon to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the custard.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Making the Vanilla Sauce
1. Combine Ingredients:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and heavy whipping cream, stirring until the sugars are dissolved.
2. Cook the Sauce:
- Continue to cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it begins to bubble and thicken—about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Serving the Bread Pudding
Once the bread pudding is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. The pudding can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
To serve, cut the bread pudding into squares and place each piece on a dessert plate. Generously drizzle the warm vanilla sauce over the top, letting it soak into the pudding for an extra layer of flavor. For an added touch, garnish with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or a dollop of whipped cream.
A Nostalgic Treat for Any Occasion
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is more than just a dessert—it’s a trip down memory lane. The warm, comforting flavors evoke feelings of home and family, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it after a Sunday dinner, serving it at a holiday gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat on a cozy night in, this bread pudding is sure to become a favorite in your household.
So, the next time you have some leftover bread, don’t let it go to waste. Instead, transform it into a delightful dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. After all, some recipes are just too good not to share, especially when they come from Grandma’s kitchen.
