Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! This Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a cherished recipe in my home, perfect for both busy weeknights and special family gatherings. The combination of rich custard and sweet vanilla sauce creates an indulgent treat that everyone will love. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even beginner bakers can whip it up with confidence!

Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or serving it as a dessert, this bread pudding is sure to impress. It’s a comforting classic that brings smiles around the table, making it a go-to for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have this delicious dessert ready in no time.
• Family-friendly favorite: Everyone loves bread pudding! It’s creamy, sweet, and so satisfying—perfect for all ages.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and let it bake while you enjoy the company of your loved ones.
• Versatile flavors: Customize it with your favorite spices or fruit zests for a unique twist every time.
• Decadent delight: The combination of custard and vanilla sauce creates an irresistible flavor that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a breeze! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have on hand.

For the 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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some fruit: Toss in some fresh berries or sliced bananas for a fruity twist.
• Experiment with spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Try different breads: Use challah or brioche instead of French bread for a richer taste.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can bring a delightful crunch to each bite.

How to Make Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your French bread into bite-sized cubes. This helps the bread soak up all that delicious custard mixture later on. Spread the cubes out on a baking sheet and let them dry out slightly while you prepare the custard.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla, and sugar. Whisking thoroughly ensures that everything blends well together, creating that smooth custard texture we love in bread pudding. If you’re using orange zest, now’s the time to add it in!

Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard

Once your custard mixture is smooth, pour it over the cubed bread on your baking sheet. Gently toss everything together until all the bread pieces are well-coated. Letting it sit for about 30 minutes allows the bread to absorb all that creamy goodness—trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for about 120 minutes, or until it’s golden brown on top and set in the center. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 5: Prepare the Vanilla Sauce

While your pudding bakes, make the vanilla sauce by combining some sugar with water in a saucepan over medium heat until dissolved. Then stir in vanilla extract to finish off this luscious topping. Drizzle over warm pudding before serving—it’s pure magic!

And there you have it—a deliciously comforting Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Making the perfect custard bread pudding is all about attention to detail, and I’m here to help you achieve that creamy, dreamy dessert you’ve been dreaming of!

• Use stale bread for the best texture – Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture without becoming mushy. If your bread is fresh, simply leave it out overnight or toast it lightly to dry it out a bit.
• Whisk the eggs thoroughly – A well-mixed egg mixture ensures a smooth custard base. This helps prevent any clumps, giving your pudding a lovely, creamy texture.
• Let it soak – Allowing the bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) lets the flavors meld and ensures every bite is deliciously rich.
• Bake in a water bath – Baking your pudding in a water bath (bain-marie) helps regulate the temperature and prevents overcooking. This technique results in a perfectly set custard that remains tender.
• Check for doneness carefully – Insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean when done. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry texture rather than the rich creaminess we desire.

How to Serve Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Presenting your custard bread pudding beautifully can turn this comforting dessert into an impressive centerpiece for any meal. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of fresh strawberries or blueberries adds a pop of color and tartness that balances the sweetness of the pudding.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top enhances the luxuriousness and provides an airy contrast to the rich custard.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad complements the richness of the pudding while providing a nutritional boost. Use seasonal fruits for an extra touch!
• Coffee or tea: Pairing your dessert with a cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances overall enjoyment—sipping something warm makes every bite more comforting.
• Ice cream: For an indulgent twist, serve your pudding warm alongside a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream. The creamy coldness pairs wonderfully with the warm custard.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to make an unforgettable Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce that will delight family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This custard bread pudding is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, and it’s easy to store. Here’s how to keep your delicious dessert fresh and ready for enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pudding to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cut the bread pudding into individual portions for easy serving.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk in custard bread pudding with vanilla sauce?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk for whole milk. However, be mindful that this will change the flavor slightly and may affect the creaminess.

How do I know when my custard bread pudding with vanilla sauce is done baking?

You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly as it will continue to firm up as it cools.

Can I add fruits or nuts to my custard bread pudding?

Absolutely! Feel free to add dried fruits like raisins or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor. Just fold them into the mixture before baking.

How long does custard bread pudding stay fresh?

When stored correctly in the refrigerator, custard bread pudding will stay fresh for about 3 days. If frozen, it can last up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this custard bread pudding with vanilla sauce as much as I do! It’s a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast or a sweet treat after dinner. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite flavors and toppings. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and warmth!