Indulge in the timeless comfort of our Classic Farmhouse-Style Bread Pudding, a perfect blend of rustic charm and sweet delight. This recipe transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a heartwarming dessert that’s ideal for any occasion. Made with rich whole milk, sweetened with a blend of white and light brown sugars, and spiced with a hint of cinnamon, this bread pudding exudes warmth and comfort. The star of the show is the hearty farmhouse-style bread, toasted to perfection and soaked in a lusciously creamy mixture, then baked until it reaches a golden-brown perfection. Studded with plump raisins, each bite offers a delightful burst of flavor.
But the real magic lies in the homemade vanilla sauce – a silky, smooth concoction that drizzles beautifully over the warm bread pudding, adding an extra layer of indulgence. Crafted with whole milk, brown sugar, and a generous splash of vanilla extract, this sauce is the perfect complement to the rich, custard-like pudding.
Whether you’re gathering around the table for a family meal, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a comforting dessert, this farmhouse-style bread pudding with homemade vanilla sauce is sure to satisfy. Its simplicity speaks volumes, offering a taste of home-baked goodness that’s both nostalgic and delicious. Serve this delectable dessert warm, and watch as it becomes a favorite among your friends and family. Don’t forget to share this easy-to-follow recipe, and get ready to enjoy a slice of cozy comfort that’s just like grandma used to make!
Table of contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread Pudding:
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 10 slices hearty farmhouse-style bread, toasted and cut into cubes
- 1 cup raisins
For the Vanilla Sauce:
- 1 ¼ cups whole milk
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare for Baking: Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Then, grease a 2-quart baking dish to ensure your bread pudding doesn’t stick.
2. Make the Bread Pudding: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, white sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, brown sugar, and cinnamon. This mixture will be the custardy base of your pudding. Next, gently fold in the toasted bread cubes and raisins, making sure the bread soaks up all the flavorful liquid. Spoon this mixture into your prepared baking dish.
3. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the pudding is browned and set in the middle. To prevent over-browning, cover the dish with foil after 30 minutes. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving; this waiting time lets the pudding set perfectly.
4. Prepare Vanilla Sauce: Meanwhile, in a heavy saucepan, combine milk, brown sugar, melted butter, egg, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Whisking constantly, cook this mixture over medium heat until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10 to 12 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This sauce is a game changer!
5. Serve: Finally, it’s time to enjoy your masterpiece. Pour the warm vanilla sauce over the bread pudding or serve it on the side in a bowl for guests to add as they please.
This farmhouse-style bread pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a trip down memory lane, bringing traditional flavors and the comfort of home-cooked meals to your table. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate the joy of baking!
Pro Tips
- Bread Choice: The type of bread you choose can make a big difference. Go for a dense, hearty bread for the best texture.
- Raisin Alternatives: If raisins aren’t your thing, feel free to substitute them with other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Enjoy this delightful, heartwarming dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of raisins and the rich, creamy texture of the vanilla sauce. Happy baking! ????????
Bread pudding with Vanilla Sauce FAQS
How Long is Bread Pudding Good for After Baking?
Bread pudding, after baking, can typically be kept for around 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. To ensure it stays fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container. If you’ve added any fruit or dairy-based sauces, it’s important to refrigerate the pudding to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. For longer storage, you can freeze bread pudding for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly and thaw in the fridge before reheating and serving.
How Do You Know When Bread Pudding is Done?
To determine if bread pudding is done, look for a few key signs:
- The edges should be slightly browned and pull away from the sides of the baking dish.
- The center should be set but still slightly wobbly, not liquidy. It will firm up as it cools.
- You can insert a knife or a toothpick in the center of the pudding; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but not liquid batter.
- The top should be golden brown, and the bread pieces should appear puffed up.
Why is My Bread Pudding Dry?
Bread pudding can turn out dry for several reasons:
- Overbaking: If left in the oven too long, the moisture can evaporate, leaving the pudding dry.
- Insufficient Custard Mixture: The bread needs enough milk and egg mixture to absorb. If there’s not enough of it, or if the bread is too dense and doesn’t absorb it well, the pudding can be dry.
- Type of Bread: Some breads absorb liquid better than others. If you use a bread that’s too dense or doesn’t soak up the liquid well, it might result in a drier texture.
- Not Allowing the Bread to Soak: It’s crucial to give the bread enough time to absorb the custard mixture before baking.
What is Bread Pudding Sauce Made Of?
The classic sauce for bread pudding is often a sweet vanilla sauce, which typically includes:
- Whole milk or heavy cream for a rich base.
- Sugar, often brown sugar for its molasses-like flavor.
- Butter for richness.
- An egg to thicken the sauce.
- A small amount of all-purpose flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
- A pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract for flavoring.
- Sometimes, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg are added for extra warmth and flavor.
This sauce is cooked over medium heat until thickened and is usually poured over the warm bread pudding, adding a creamy, sweet element that complements the dish perfectly.
