Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Introduction
When it comes to comforting desserts, nothing beats Grandma’s old-fashioned bread pudding with vanilla sauce. This timeless classic brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and the delicious aroma that filled the kitchen. With its soft and custardy texture, paired with a rich and creamy vanilla sauce, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and warm your heart.
Ingredients
To make Grandma’s old-fashioned bread pudding with vanilla sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
– 6 cups of stale bread, torn into small pieces
– 4 cups of milk
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
Steps
Follow these simple steps to create your own Grandma’s old-fashioned bread pudding with vanilla sauce:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the torn bread pieces and milk. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the milk.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the soaked bread and gently stir to ensure all the bread is coated.
5. If desired, fold in the raisins at this point.
6. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
8. While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the vanilla sauce.
9. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat until it just starts to simmer.
10. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 1/4 cup of cold water until smooth.
11. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
12. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
13. Once the bread pudding is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
14. Serve warm with a drizzle of homemade vanilla sauce on top.
Variations
While Grandma’s old-fashioned bread pudding with vanilla sauce is delicious on its own, you can also try these variations to add a twist:
– Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle chocolate chips or chunks over the bread pudding before baking for a rich and decadent treat.
– Berry Bliss: Add fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, to the bread pudding for a burst of fruity flavor.
– Nutty Delight: Fold in a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to add a crunchy texture to the bread pudding.
Tips
Follow these tips to ensure your Grandma’s old-fashioned bread pudding with vanilla sauce turns out perfectly:
– Use stale bread: Using stale bread ensures that it will absorb the milk mixture properly and result in a moist and tender pudding.
– Customize the sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. You can add more or less sugar depending on how sweet you like your dessert.
– Serve with ice cream: For an extra indulgence, serve the warm bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
– Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The bread pudding can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the microwave.
Conclusion
Grandma’s old-fashioned bread pudding with vanilla sauce is a timeless dessert that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. The combination of soft and custardy bread pudding with the rich and creamy vanilla sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just to treat yourself, this classic recipe is sure to become a favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and indulge in a slice of nostalgia.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
While using stale bread is recommended for the best texture, you can still use fresh bread if you don’t have stale bread on hand. Simply toast the fresh bread in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out slightly before tearing it into pieces.
2. Can I substitute the raisins with other dried fruits?
Yes, you can substitute the raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, chopped apricots, or chopped dates. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste.
3. Can I make the bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the bread pudding ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave and prepare the vanilla sauce fresh.
