A classic dessert with a comforting, homestyle vibe, bread pudding with vanilla sauce is a treat that combines a creamy custard base with sweet, slightly caramelized bread. The warm, rich vanilla sauce poured on top adds the perfect finishing touch to this crowd-pleasing dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a great way to use up stale bread.
The custard is creamy and indulgent, balanced by the sweetness of the sauce.

Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual weeknight desserts.
Customizable with add-ins like raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips.
Simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bread (day-old or stale bread works best)
Milk

Heavy cream
Granulated sugar
Eggs

Vanilla extract
Butter
Optional: Raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips

For the Vanilla Sauce:

Milk
Heavy cream
Granulated sugar

Cornstarch
Vanilla extract
Butter

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
Cut the bread into cubes and spread evenly in the prepared dish. Add optional add-ins like raisins or nuts, if desired.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour this custard mixture over the bread, ensuring it’s evenly soaked.

Let the bread soak for 10-15 minutes to absorb the custard.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
While the pudding bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a saucepan, heat milk, heavy cream, and sugar over medium heat until warm. Dissolve cornstarch in a little water and whisk it into the saucepan. Cook until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter.

Serve the bread pudding warm with a generous drizzle of vanilla sauce on top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Add spices: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard for a spiced flavor.

Chocolate twist: Mix in chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving.
Fruit-filled: Add dried cranberries, fresh berries, or chopped apples for a fruity variation.
Savory option: Omit the sugar and vanilla, and add cheese, herbs, and cooked vegetables for a savory bread pudding.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Freezing: Bread pudding freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. What type of bread is best for bread pudding?

Day-old or stale bread with a sturdy texture, like French bread, brioche, or challah, works best as it absorbs the custard well without becoming mushy.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute non-dairy milk and cream, and use plant-based butter to make it dairy-free.

3. How do I know when the bread pudding is done?

The top should be golden brown, and the custard should be set. Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean.

4. Can I make bread pudding ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh before serving.

5. Can I skip the vanilla sauce?

While the sauce adds a delightful flavor, the bread pudding is delicious on its own or with a scoop of ice cream.

6. Why is my bread pudding soggy?

It may be undercooked. Ensure the custard is fully set before removing it from the oven.

7. Can I use gluten-free bread?

Absolutely, gluten-free bread works well in this recipe.

8. What’s the purpose of letting the bread soak?

Soaking allows the bread to absorb the custard, ensuring a moist and flavorful pudding.

9. How can I reheat bread pudding without drying it out?

Cover it with foil while reheating in the oven to retain moisture.

10. Can I use pre-made vanilla sauce?

Yes, store-bought vanilla sauce works as a convenient alternative.

Conclusion

Bread pudding with vanilla sauce is a timeless dessert that combines simple ingredients to create a rich and satisfying treat. With its warm, custard-soaked bread and silky vanilla topping, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Whether served at family gatherings or as a cozy end to a meal, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a taste of comfort!