Step 2 — Make the Custard Base

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
   • eggs
   • sugar
   • vanilla
   • cinnamon
   • nutmeg
   • salt
2. Heat the milk (and cream if using) in a saucepan until warm—not boiling.
3. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to avoid scrambling the eggs.

You’re creating a smooth custard similar to what will become the heart of your bread pudding.

Step 3 — Assemble the Pudding

1. Place the dried bread cubes into a greased baking dish.
2. If using, sprinkle raisins or nuts evenly over the bread.
3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the top.
4. Gently press the bread down with a spoon so every piece becomes soaked.

Let the mixture rest for 20–30 minutes. This ensures full absorption and luxurious texture.

Step 4 — Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 45–55 minutes.
3. The top should be golden brown, and the center should be set but still slightly soft.
4. A knife inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.

Allow to cool slightly before serving—it continues to firm as it sits.

🍮 Step-by-Step: How to Make Warm Vanilla Custard Sauce

This creamy sauce is what transforms bread pudding from comforting to unforgettable.

Step 1 — Prepare the Thickener

1. In a bowl, whisk together:
   • egg yolks
   • sugar
   • cornstarch
2. Mix until smooth and pale.

Step 2 — Heat the Milk

1. Warm the milk in a saucepan until just steaming.
2. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.

This tempers the yolks, preventing curdling.

Step 3 — Thicken the Custard

1. Return the mixture to the saucepan.
2. Cook over low heat, whisking constantly.
3. In 3–5 minutes, the custard will thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, and salt.

If it becomes too thick, whisk in a splash of warm milk until silky.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve the bread pudding warm with a generous drizzle of vanilla custard.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar on top.
• For extra indulgence, pair with whipped cream, ice cream, or caramel sauce.
• Refrigerate leftovers and warm gently before serving—they taste even better the next day.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Traditional Bread Pudding with Vanilla Custard is one of those desserts that never goes out of style. It’s humble yet luxurious, simple yet deeply satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a comforting classic that fills your kitchen with the sweetest aroma and your heart with nostalgic warmth.

If you’d like, I can also help you with:
✅ A printable version
✅ A shorter recipe card
✅ A variation (chocolate, bourbon, lemon, etc.)
Just let me know!