If you’re searching for a dessert that wraps you in warmth and indulgence, look no further than Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce. This delightful dish brings together soft, custardy bread soaked in a luscious blend of eggs and cream, finished with a silky vanilla sauce that adds the perfect touch of sweetness. It’s a comforting treat that’s both simple to make and irresistibly flavorful, making it a timeless favorite for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a dish: The creamy texture combined with soft baked bread delivers a comforting experience with every bite.
- Easy to make: With pantry staples and straightforward steps, it’s a stress-free dessert perfect for beginners and pros alike.
- Versatility: Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this dish fits any time of day and mood.
- Rich vanilla flavor: The homemade vanilla sauce elevates the pudding with a fragrant sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
- Great for leftovers: Enjoy it warm or cold, making it ideal for meal prep or cozy evenings ahead.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, essential ingredients, each bringing something special to the table—from creamy richness to perfect texture and subtle sweetness.
- Stale bread: Day-old bread works best as it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.
- Eggs: They create the rich custard base that binds everything together beautifully.
- Milk and cream: The ideal combo to make the pudding luxuriously creamy and velvety.
- Sugar: Adds the necessary sweetness to balance the richness of the custard.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with its warm, aromatic flavor.
- Butter: Used to butter the dish and add a golden richness to the pudding’s surface.
- For the vanilla sauce: Heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, and pure vanilla extract blend into a smooth, sweet topping.
Variations for Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Feel free to customize this decadent recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences with these easy and delicious ideas.
- Fruit additions: Toss in raisins, chopped apples, or berries before baking for a fruity twist.
- Chocolate touch: Sprinkle chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for extra indulgence.
- Nutty crunch: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for texture and a nutty flavor.
- Dairy-free version: Use almond or oat milk and coconut cream to make a vegan-friendly option.
- Spiced variation: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to add warmth and complexity.
How to Make Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut your stale bread into cubes or tear it into bite-sized pieces. Place these pieces in a buttered baking dish to ensure they don’t stick and gain a nice golden crust during baking.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until fully blended. This custard mixture will soak into the bread, giving the pudding its creamy and luscious texture.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Pour the custard evenly over the bread pieces, pressing down gently to ensure every cube is absorbed. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes for the bread to soak fully.
Step 4: Bake the Pudding
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread pudding for around 45-50 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is beautifully golden and slightly crisp.
Step 5: Prepare the Vanilla Sauce
Simmer heavy cream and sugar gently, and whisk in egg yolks and vanilla extract. Continue cooking on low heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a smooth, pourable consistency.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Let the bread pudding cool briefly before drizzling with the homemade vanilla sauce. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Pro Tips for Making Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
- Use stale bread: It absorbs the custard better than fresh bread, preventing sogginess.
- Don’t skip resting: Letting the bread soak ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.
- Temperature matters: Bake at a moderate temperature to cook the custard evenly without drying it out.
- Check the sauce consistency: It should coat the back of a spoon—too thin and it won’t be flavorful enough.
- Serve fresh: Bread pudding tastes best when freshly baked or reheated gently.
How to Serve Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Garnishes
Sprinkle powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an inviting appearance and extra flavor pop.
Side Dishes
Pair with vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or some fresh fruit compote to complement the rich pudding.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual ramekins or small mason jars for a charming, personalized touch that’s perfect for parties or cozy nights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy the comforting flavors again without losing quality.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked pudding in an airtight container for up to 2 months, making it a convenient make-ahead treat for busy days.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the pudding.
FAQs
What type of bread works best for Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce?
Stale white bread, brioche, or challah are ideal as they absorb the custard perfectly without falling apart.
Can I make the vanilla sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the vanilla sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, just warm it gently before serving.
Is Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce gluten-free?
Traditional recipes use regular bread, but substituting with gluten-free bread makes it suitable for gluten-free diets.
How long does Custard Bread Pudding keep?
Stored in the fridge, it remains fresh for up to 3 days; freezing extends its shelf life to about 2 months.
Can I add other flavors to the custard?
Absolutely! Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or even citrus zest can bring delightful new dimensions to the pudding.
Final Thoughts
Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is truly a dish to savor, combining simplicity with rich, comforting flavors that feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this recipe always delivers that perfect mix of creamy, sweet, and satisfying. Give it a try—you might just discover your next favorite dessert!