Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! This Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a cherished family recipe that never fails to bring smiles. It’s rich, creamy, and has just the right amount of sweetness to brighten up your day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to whip up. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and let the oven do the hard work while you spend time with loved ones. Trust me; your kitchen will smell heavenly, and everyone will be lining up for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress.
• Perfect for gatherings: This dish serves 12, making it ideal for family meals or potlucks.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it in advance and bake it just before serving—great for busy schedules!
• Kid-friendly appeal: With its sweet, custardy goodness, kids love this bread pudding!
• Deliciously versatile: You can customize it with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our custard bread pudding shine! This recipe uses everyday items that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add fruit: Toss in some raisins or chopped apples for added sweetness and texture.
• Try different breads: Use brioche or challah instead of French bread for a richer flavor.
• Spice it up: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the taste beautifully.
• Top it off: Serve with whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra special touch.

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 soak up all that delicious custard mixture later on. Letting the bread sit out for a bit can also help dry it out slightly—this way, it absorbs more flavor!

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla, and sugar until everything is well combined. This mixture is where all the magic happens! The richness from both creams and the eggs creates that dreamy custardy texture we love.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard

Gently fold your bread cubes into the custard mixture. Make sure every piece gets coated; this step ensures every bite will be deliciously custardy. Let this sit for about 15 minutes so the bread can soak up all those flavors.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Preheat your oven while you transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about two hours until it’s golden brown on top and set in the middle. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!

Step 5: Prepare the Vanilla Sauce

While your pudding bakes, let’s whip up that dreamy vanilla sauce! Simply combine some cream and sugar in a saucepan over low heat until it’s warm and dissolved. Pour this luscious sauce over each serving of bread pudding when you’re ready to dig in!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dessert! Your friends and family are sure to love every single bite of your Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Making custard bread pudding can be a delightful experience, and these handy tips will ensure your dessert turns out perfectly each time!

• Choose the right bread: A sturdy loaf like French or sourdough works best as it absorbs the custard without falling apart. This results in a lovely texture that holds up beautifully.

• Let it soak: Allow the bread to sit in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. This soaking time ensures the bread absorbs all those creamy flavors, resulting in a moist and decadent pudding.

• Bake in a water bath: Placing your dish in a larger pan filled with water helps regulate the temperature, leading to even cooking and preventing the edges from over-baking. It creates a gentle steam environment that enhances creaminess.

• Check for doneness: Insert a knife into the center of the pudding; it should come out clean when fully baked. This simple test helps you avoid an undercooked or overly dry dessert.

• Cool before serving: Letting your bread pudding cool for at least 15-20 minutes allows it to set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve while still warm.

How to Serve Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Presenting your custard bread pudding can enhance its appeal and make every bite feel special! Here are some ideas for serving this delicious treat.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a vibrant pop of color and tartness that complements the creamy sweetness of the pudding.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint provide a refreshing contrast in both flavor and presentation, making your dish look even more inviting.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can add a touch of elegance and sweetness without being overwhelming.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dairy-free alternative that pairs beautifully with the richness of the bread pudding, providing lightness and creaminess.
• Fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the custard bread pudding, enhancing your overall dessert experience.
• Coffee or tea: Serving this dessert alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea can create a cozy pairing that rounds out your meal beautifully.
• Vanilla ice cream: For those who love indulgence, adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings an extra layer of creaminess and temperature contrast to each bite.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress everyone at your table with your delicious Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce! Enjoy this comforting classic that’s perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This custard bread pudding with vanilla sauce is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, and it stores beautifully, allowing flavors to develop even more. Here’s how to keep your delicious creation fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before storing.
• Cover 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 thawing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 20 minutes.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as above, or microwave individual pieces until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dessert!

Can I use different types of bread for Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce?

Absolutely! While French bread gives a wonderful texture, you can experiment with brioche, challah, or even leftover bagels for a unique twist.

What can I serve with Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce?

This delightful dish pairs perfectly with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream. They enhance the flavors beautifully!

How do I know when my Custard Bread Pudding is done baking?

Your bread pudding is ready when it’s set in the center but still slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I make Custard Bread Pudding without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with additional whole milk or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version while still maintaining that creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this custard bread pudding with vanilla sauce as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dessert that brings warmth to any gathering. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!