Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dessert that brings everyone together, then my Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is just what you need. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and I can’t wait to share it with you! It’s rich, creamy, and has that perfect golden top that makes it utterly irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

What makes this bread pudding truly special is its versatility. You can serve it warm as a delightful breakfast treat or indulge in it as a decadent dessert after dinner. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug, inviting everyone to the table for a slice (or two!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have this delicious dessert ready to go.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the creamy texture and sweet flavor—picky eaters included!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it the night before and let it soak for an even richer flavor.
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy it warm or chilled, and feel free to add your favorite toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need for your Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce:

For the Bread Pudding

• 16 oz loaf of French bread (454g)
• 3 ¾ cups whole milk
• 1 ½ cup heavy cream
• 7 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 ¼ cup sugar
• Optional zest of 1/2 an orange

Variations

One of the best things about this custard bread pudding is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add fruits: Toss in some fresh berries or sliced bananas for a fruity twist.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
• Change up the bread: Use challah or brioche for an even richer experience.
• Spice it up: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

How to Make Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your French bread into cubes. This helps the bread soak up all that creamy custard goodness. Letting the cubes sit out for a bit to dry will create a lovely texture in your pudding.

Step 2: Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, cream, and vanilla until well combined. This mixture is where all the magic happens! Whisking thoroughly ensures every bite is creamy and sweet.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard

Gently fold your bread cubes into the custard mixture. Make sure each piece is well coated; this will help achieve that delightful custardy center we all love!

Step 4: Bake

Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until the top is golden brown and set in the middle. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 5: Make the Vanilla Sauce

While your pudding is baking, you can whip up an easy vanilla sauce. Just combine sugar, cream, and vanilla in a saucepan over low heat until warm and smooth. This sauce takes your bread pudding to another level!

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, let your custard bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with that luscious vanilla sauce right before enjoying—it’s pure bliss!

Now you’re ready to enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful dessert!

Pro Tips for Making Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Creating the perfect custard bread pudding is a delightful journey, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dessert game!

• Use Stale Bread: Day-old French bread or slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in a richer flavor and a creamier texture.

• Whisk Eggs Thoroughly: A well-beaten mixture ensures that the eggs are fully integrated, creating a smooth custard that bakes evenly without any eggy bits.

• Let it Soak: Allowing the bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes (or longer) enhances the flavor and texture, leading to a more decadent pudding.

• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your pudding while it’s baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture; you want it just set but still jiggly in the center when you take it out.

• Cool Before Serving: Letting your bread pudding cool for about 15 minutes after baking allows it to firm up, making it easier to cut and serve while still being warm and inviting.

How to Serve Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Serving your custard bread pudding with vanilla sauce can be an art! Here are some delightful ideas to present this comforting dessert beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries adds a pop of color and a refreshing tartness that balances the richness of the pudding.

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving offers an elegant touch that enhances presentation without overpowering the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Cinnamon Apples: Sautéed apples sprinkled with cinnamon provide a warm, spiced complement to the creamy texture of the pudding, adding extra warmth to your meal.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside your warm bread pudding creates a delightful contrast between temperatures and textures that everyone will love.

• Coffee or Tea: Serve your dessert with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea. The warmth and slight bitterness will perfectly balance the sweetness of your dish.

• Whipped Coconut Cream: For those who prefer a lighter topping, whipped coconut cream is airy and subtly sweet, providing a delicious vegan-friendly alternative to traditional whipped cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

This custard bread pudding is an excellent dish for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time for a delicious breakfast or dessert that the whole family will love throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pudding to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Freezing

• Let the bread pudding cool entirely before freezing.
• Cut into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pudding in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until heated (about 1-2 minutes).

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

What is Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce?

Custard bread pudding is a rich and creamy dessert made with bread soaked in a mixture of milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. It’s baked until golden and served often with a delicious vanilla sauce.

Can I make Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce dairy-free?

Yes! You can use plant-based milk alternatives such as almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk and heavy cream. Just make sure to choose a suitable egg substitute if you’re avoiding eggs as well.

How long does Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, custard bread pudding can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This custard bread pudding with vanilla sauce is truly special! Its comforting texture and delightful flavor make it perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy creating this dish as much as I do. It’s a wonderful way to bring warmth and happiness to your table. Happy baking!