Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce : The Ultimate Comfort Dessert

There’s something magical about a warm, comforting dessert that combines custard, bread, and a rich vanilla sauce. Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is one of those classic desserts that never fails to delight. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover bread or simply craving something indulgent and comforting, this dish is the perfect choice.

With its creamy custard base, soft bread cubes, and the finishing touch of homemade vanilla sauce, this dessert brings together the best of classic bread pudding flavors. It’s perfect for special occasions like Easter, family dinners, or just when you need something sweet to satisfy your dessert cravings.

Looking for another twist on bread pudding? Try our Easter Bread Pudding for a holiday-worthy dessert!

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What Makes Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce So Special?

Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is an extraordinary dessert for several reasons:

• Comforting Texture: The creamy, custard-like filling is made by soaking bread cubes in a milk-egg mixture that’s rich and velvety. This results in a soft, moist texture that’s perfect for a cozy dessert.
• Simple Ingredients: Bread pudding is made from bread, eggs, milk, and sugar—ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. It’s a great way to make a delicious dessert without needing to shop for fancy items.
• Indulgent Vanilla Sauce: The vanilla sauce poured over the warm pudding adds a sweet, rich finish that elevates the entire dish. It’s a perfect complement to the soft, custardy bread pudding.
• Versatility: This bread pudding recipe can be customized in countless ways. You can add raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts to the mixture, or even flavor the custard with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday, a dinner party, or a casual family meal, Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is an elegant and satisfying dessert that will wow your guests.

It’s easy to see why this dessert is a timeless favorite.

Ingredients for Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Making Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce requires a few simple, everyday ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bread Pudding:

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (preferably brioche, challah, or white bread)
• 2 cups whole milk (you can also use half-and-half for extra richness)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional, or substitute with other dried fruit or chocolate chips)
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)

These ingredients create a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Making Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is simple and can be done in just a few easy steps. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or an equivalent-sized casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

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Step 2: Cube the Bread

Cut the day-old bread into cubes (about 1-inch in size). If you don’t have day-old bread, you can toast fresh bread to dry it out a bit. The drier the bread, the better it will soak up the custard mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until well combined and the mixture is smooth. This will be the custard base that gives the bread pudding its rich, creamy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Bread Pudding

Add the bread cubes to the prepared baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing the bread down gently to ensure that all the cubes soak up the custard. If you’re adding raisins, chocolate chips, or other dried fruit, sprinkle them over the bread before pouring the custard mixture in.

Step 5: Bake the Bread Pudding

Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread pudding. This helps create a golden-brown, slightly crispy top while keeping the inside soft and moist. Bake the bread pudding in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The pudding should be set but still slightly wobbly in the middle.

Step 6: Make the Vanilla Sauce

While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the milk, butter, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, stir in the vanilla extract and remove from heat.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the bread pudding is done baking, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon a generous portion onto each plate and drizzle with the vanilla sauce. The bread pudding can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

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How to Make the Perfect Vanilla Sauce for Bread Pudding

The vanilla sauce is the secret to turning bread pudding into an indulgent dessert. It’s creamy, sweet, and enhances the flavor of the bread pudding. Here’s how to make it:

1. In a saucepan, combine milk, butter, and sugar over medium heat.
2. Stir in cornstarch mixed with a little milk to avoid lumps.
3. Continuously whisk the sauce until it thickens into a custard-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Once thickened, remove from the heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour the sauce generously over the baked bread pudding for the perfect sweet finish.

Tips for Making the Best Custard Bread Pudding

• Use stale bread: Fresh bread can become too soggy. Use day-old bread or toast fresh bread lightly to allow it to absorb the custard without falling apart.
• Don’t skip the soaking time: Allow the bread to soak in the custard for at least 10-15 minutes before baking. This ensures the bread is fully saturated with the custard mixture, resulting in a rich, moist pudding.
• Customize with add-ins: Add raisins, chocolate chips, or pecans to make the pudding even more flavorful.
• Check for doneness: Bake the pudding until it’s golden brown on top and set in the center. If it still wobbles too much, continue baking in 5-minute increments.
• Use high-quality vanilla extract: The flavor of the vanilla sauce depends on the quality of your vanilla. Choose pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.

How to Customize Your Custard Bread Pudding

Custard Bread Pudding is easy to customize, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are a few ideas:

• Fruits and nuts: Add chopped apples, pears, or bananas for a fruity twist. For crunch, add walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
• Chocolate: Add chocolate chips or chunks of your favorite chocolate to the custard mixture for a rich, decadent pudding.
• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the custard for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with the bread and vanilla sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

• With whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream on top of warm bread pudding is the perfect finishing touch.
• With ice cream: Serve the pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
• With fresh fruit: Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bread pudding.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Custard Bread Pudding

Storage:
Store leftover Custard Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
To reheat, microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until warmed through. Add a bit more vanilla sauce for extra richness.

Why Custard Bread Pudding is Perfect for Special Occasions

Custard Bread Pudding is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for special occasions like Easter, family gatherings, or even Sunday dinner. Its comforting texture and rich flavor make it a favorite among guests. The addition of vanilla sauce adds that extra touch of sweetness and elegance that makes this dessert truly memorable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Custard Bread Pudding

• Not soaking the bread long enough: Don’t skip the soaking time—allowing the bread to absorb the custard mixture is crucial for the perfect texture.
• Using fresh bread: Fresh bread doesn’t absorb the custard as well as day-old bread, so make sure your bread is a bit stale for the best results.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bread pudding as it bakes. Overbaking can result in a dry, crumbly pudding. Aim for a golden top with a moist center.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Bread Pudding and Custard Desserts

Can I make custard bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the bread pudding the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Bake it the next day when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, you can use almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk as a substitute for dairy milk if you prefer a dairy-free option.

Can I freeze custard bread pudding?
Yes, you can freeze the bread pudding after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion + Call to Action

Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a classic, comforting dessert that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet cravings. Its rich, custardy texture and indulgent vanilla sauce make it the perfect dessert for any occasion.

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