This Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert—soft, sweet, and drenched in a warm, velvety vanilla sauce. With its nostalgic flavors and simple preparation, it’s like a warm hug in every bite. Perfect for using up leftover bread, this classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 50 minutes
Total Time
- 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings
- 6–8 servings
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
- 4 cups cubed bread (stale bread works best, such as French bread or challah)
- ½ cup raisins (optional, but adds sweetness and texture)
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ cup butter , melted
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Vanilla Sauce:
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread and raisins (if using).
- Warm the milk and melted butter together in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is warm (not boiling). Alternatively, microwave the milk and butter in a microwave-safe bowl for 30–45 seconds.
- Pour the warm milk mixture over the bread cubes. Stir gently to ensure all the bread is evenly soaked. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar , eggs , vanilla extract , and nutmeg until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture into the soaked bread and stir gently to combine. The mixture should be creamy and slightly thick.
Step 4: Bake the Bread Pudding
- Transfer the bread pudding mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 5: Prepare the Vanilla Sauce
- While the bread pudding bakes, make the vanilla sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter .
- Add the granulated sugar , brown sugar , and heavy cream , stirring constantly until the sugars dissolve and the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract . The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.
Step 6: Serve Warm
- Once the bread pudding is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes .
- Drizzle the warm vanilla sauce generously over individual servings of bread pudding, or pour it over the entire dish before slicing.
Pro Tips
- Bread Choices: Use stale bread for the best texture—it absorbs the custard without becoming soggy. French bread, challah, or brioche are excellent options.
- Raisin Alternatives: Swap raisins for dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chocolate chips for a different twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat portions in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk to restore moisture.
- Freezing: Freeze baked bread pudding (without sauce) in an airtight container for up to 1 month . Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fats: 18g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 28g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is pure nostalgia in dessert form. The soft, custardy bread pairs perfectly with the rich, buttery vanilla sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it as a comforting dessert or sharing it with loved ones, this bread pudding is a timeless treat that never goes out of style.
Ready to bake a dish that’s warm, sweet, and utterly satisfying? Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor a dessert that’s steeped in tradition and brimming with love—it’s comfort food at its finest!
