Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve found it with this Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce! This dish has been a beloved favorite in my family for years, bringing smiles to faces during cozy gatherings and busy weeknights alike. It’s incredibly satisfying with its rich, creamy texture and the delightful sweetness of vanilla. Plus, it’s perfect for both breakfast and dessert—who doesn’t love that versatility?

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create something that feels fancy but is so approachable. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself after a long day, this custard bread pudding will surely become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is straightforward enough for even novice cooks.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will savor every spoonful of this creamy delight—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time! Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it warm or chilled; it works as a delightful breakfast treat or a sweet ending to your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this custard bread pudding is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. 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 extract
• 1 ¼ cup sugar
• Optional zest of 1/2 an orange

With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to making a delicious dessert that everyone will love!

Variations

One of the best things about this custard bread pudding is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Some Fruit: Toss in some blueberries or sliced strawberries for added flavor and color.
• Spice It Up: Include cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist that complements the vanilla beautifully.
• Chocolate Delight: Stir in chocolate chips for an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking for an extra layer of texture.

How to Make Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your French bread into cubes. This allows them to soak up all that delicious custard mixture later on. Use slightly stale bread if you have it—stale bread absorbs more liquid and gives you that perfect custardy texture.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. It’s important to mix until everything blends smoothly; this ensures you won’t have any clumps in your pudding. If you’re using orange zest, add it here for an uplifting citrus note!

Step 3: Combine and Soak

Gently fold the cubed bread into your custard mixture. Make sure every piece gets coated well. Let it sit for about 30 minutes so the bread can soak up all those wonderful flavors; patience here brings out the best texture!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for about two hours until set and golden brown on top. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 5: Serve with Vanilla Sauce

While it cools slightly, whip up some quick vanilla sauce if desired (a simple combination of sugar, milk, and vanilla). Drizzle over each serving for an extra touch of sweetness—it really takes this dish over the top!

With these steps laid out clearly, you’ll find making Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce both enjoyable and rewarding. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—it’s bound to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Creating the perfect custard bread pudding is all about the details, and these tips will help you achieve that dreamy texture and flavor!

• Use stale bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture without becoming too soggy. It helps create a wonderfully textured dessert that holds together beautifully.

• Whisk your eggs thoroughly: A well-whisked egg mixture ensures even distribution of flavors and a smooth custard base. This helps avoid any eggy bits in your final product.

• Let it soak: Allowing the bread to soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes before baking lets the flavors meld and the bread to absorb enough liquid. This results in a softer, creamier pudding.

• Bake in a water bath: Baking your pudding in a water bath (bain-marie) helps maintain an even temperature, preventing the custard from curdling and promoting a creamy texture throughout.

• Cool before serving: Letting your bread pudding cool slightly after baking allows it to set up perfectly, making it easier to slice and serve while still being warm and delicious.

How to Serve Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Serving custard bread pudding can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your presentation and make every bite memorable.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of raspberries or blueberries adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich custard.
• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top gives a charming finish and enhances the visual appeal of your dish.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top provide a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the pudding.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and balances the richness of the pudding.
• Whipped coconut cream: Light and fluffy, whipped coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative that adds sweetness without overwhelming flavors.
• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm pudding, creating a luscious combination that’s hard to resist.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances this dessert experience, providing a comforting finish to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your custard bread pudding with vanilla sauce will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This custard bread pudding is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavors throughout the week. With a few simple storage techniques, you can keep it fresh and delicious for days to come.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers 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 portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bread pudding in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries regarding our custard bread pudding with vanilla sauce.

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

Absolutely! While French bread gives a lovely texture, feel free to experiment with challah or brioche for a sweeter flavor. Just make sure the bread is somewhat stale or toasted for the best results.

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

This dessert pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or whipped cream. You can also drizzle extra vanilla sauce over the top for added indulgence!

How long does Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your custard bread pudding can last up to 3 days. If you freeze it, it will stay good for up to 2 months!

Can I make Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute half-and-half or even use all whole milk if you prefer a lighter version. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope this custard bread pudding with vanilla sauce brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s such a comforting dessert that holds so many memories and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful treat, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out!