Classic Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding:

• 4 cups cubed, 1-inch-thick day-old bread
• 2 3/4 cups milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/3 cup raisins (optional)

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup brown sugar

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Directions

To Make the Bread Pudding:

1. Prepare the Bread: Place cubed bread in a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Soak the Bread: Pour the milk mixture over the bread cubes and mix gently until the bread is fully saturated. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb.
4. Add Raisins (Optional): If using, fold raisins into the mixture.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and pour in the bread mixture. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the pudding is golden and set in the center.

To Make the Vanilla Sauce:

1. Melt Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add milk, brown sugar, and vanilla extract to the melted butter. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Serve: Drizzle the warm sauce over the bread pudding before serving.

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Tips and Variations

Tips for Success:

• Use sturdy bread like French or brioche for the best texture.
• Make sure the bread is at least one day old to absorb the custard mixture better.
• Adjust sweetness to taste by increasing or reducing the sugar slightly.

Variations:

• Add fruit like chopped apples, pears, or dried cranberries for extra flavor.
• Include chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch.
• Substitute milk with half-and-half or cream for a richer pudding.
• Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the vanilla sauce for a boozy twist.

This classic bread pudding with vanilla sauce is a versatile and comforting dessert, perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions!