Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Step 4: Bake the Pudding

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Dot the top of the pudding with small pieces of butter.
3. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Step 5: Make the Vanilla Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, combine the milk, cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a separate cup, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry.
3. Slowly pour the slurry into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
4. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
6. Let the sauce cool slightly—it will thicken more as it cools.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the bread pudding warm, generously drizzled with vanilla sauce.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• For a festive twist, sprinkle some chopped pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar on top.

Tips for Success

• Use sturdy bread – Softer sandwich bread may become too mushy; crusty or slightly stale bread works best.
• Don’t skip the soak time – Allowing the bread to absorb the custard makes the texture perfectly rich and pudding-like.
• Customize it – Add nuts, dried cranberries, chopped apples, or even a splash of bourbon to the custard for a flavor boost.

Conclusion

Grandma’s old-fashioned bread pudding with vanilla sauce isn’t just dessert—it’s a hug in a bowl. Its nostalgic charm lies in its simplicity and its ability to turn pantry staples into something extraordinary. Whether served during the holidays, on chilly evenings, or just because, this dish brings warmth and memories to the table. So next time you have leftover bread, don’t toss it—turn it into a timeless treat that’s sure to bring smiles and second helpings.