Vanilla bread pudding is like a warm hug on a chilly day; it boasts a creamy, dreamy texture and a flavor profile that’s nothing short of heavenly. Imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen as this delightful dish bakes, filling every corner with its rich vanilla essence. It’s the kind of dessert that evokes fond memories, whether it’s Grandma’s secret recipe or a spontaneous late-night craving.
Speaking of cravings, there’s nothing quite like biting into a piece of freshly baked vanilla bread pudding. The golden crust gives way to a soft and custardy interior, making each spoonful an indulgent experience. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or even as a cheeky treat after dinner, this recipe promises to deliver joy in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This vanilla bread pudding is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels
- The rich and comforting flavors will warm your heart and tickle your taste buds
- Visually appealing with its golden top and creamy inside, it’s sure to impress guests
- Versatile enough to enjoy with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh fruit toppings!
Ingredients for Vanilla Bread Pudding
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Stale Bread: Use about 6 cups of cubed stale bread; day-old French or challah works best for optimal texture.
Whole Milk: About 2 cups will create a rich custard base; opt for whole for creaminess.
Heavy Cream: Adding 1 cup enhances the pudding’s decadence and smoothness; who can say no to cream?
Granulated Sugar: Use 3/4 cup for sweetness; adjust based on your preference for sugary goodness.
Eggs: Four large eggs provide structure and richness; they are essential for that custardy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A generous tablespoon enhances the flavor; choose pure extract for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Vanilla Bread Pudding
Prepare Your Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, cut your stale bread into cubes and toss them into a large mixing bowl. Let those little pieces soak up nostalgia as you prepare the rest!
Make the Custard Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy—think of it as liquid gold! Pour this delightful blend over the cubed bread.
Combine Everything
Gently fold the bread cubes into the custard mixture until they’re well-coated. Take care not to mash them; we want fluffy bites of heaven! Let them sit for about 15 minutes so that the bread can soak up all that deliciousness.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the soaked bread mixture into it evenly. If you have any remaining custard left over (lucky you), drizzle that on top—it’ll create an extra gooey layer!
Bake to Perfection
Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes until it’s golden brown on top and slightly puffed up. The aroma will be intoxicating! A gentle jiggle in the center indicates it’s still custardy but perfectly set.
Cool It Down
Once baked, remove your vanilla bread pudding from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This waiting period is essential; it helps everything come together beautifully without burning your eager taste buds!
Serve with Style
Scoop generous portions onto plates—or just dig right in if no one is watching—and serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top. Feel free to sprinkle some cinnamon or fresh fruit for an extravagant touch!
Enjoy Every Bite
Take a moment to savor each bite of your homemade vanilla bread pudding. The crispy edges contrast beautifully with the soft center; trust me—this is comfort food at its finest! Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, each mouthful brings joy.
Now that you have mastered this classic recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors or toppings! Incorporate chocolate chips or nuts if you’re feeling adventurous—the possibilities are endless!
You Must Know
- This delightful vanilla bread pudding is not only a comforting dessert but also an excellent way to use up stale bread
- Its creamy texture and rich flavors will have everyone asking for seconds
- Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla in a bowl. Tear your bread into chunks and mix it all together before pouring it into a greased baking dish. Bake until golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your vanilla bread pudding! Add nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, or toss in some chocolate chips for an indulgent twist. You could even swap the vanilla extract with almond for a unique flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover vanilla bread pudding, cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. A microwave works too for quick bites!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect vanilla bread pudding, always use stale or day-old bread to absorb more custard
- Don’t skip soaking the bread long enough; let it soak for at least 30 minutes before baking
- Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor
It reminds me of the first time I made this vanilla bread pudding for my family. Their faces lit up like Christmas lights—it was pure joy watching them dig in!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Vanilla Bread Pudding?
To make a delicious vanilla bread pudding, you will need basic ingredients such as bread (preferably stale), eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. You can also add raisins or nuts for extra flavor and texture. The quality of the bread plays a significant role in the overall taste, so opt for brioche or challah if you can. Gather these ingredients to create a rich and creamy dessert that everyone will love.
How long does Vanilla Bread Pudding take to bake?
Vanilla bread pudding typically requires about 45 to 60 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C). The exact time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your baking dish. To ensure it is done, look for a golden top and a set custard in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean. Allow it to cool slightly before serving for the best texture.
Can I prepare Vanilla Bread Pudding in advance?
Yes, you can prepare vanilla bread pudding in advance. Assemble the dish up to a day ahead by mixing all ingredients together and refrigerating it overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the custard mixture fully. When ready to serve, simply bake it according to the recipe instructions. This makes it an excellent option for entertaining guests or for busy weeknight desserts.
What can I serve with Vanilla Bread Pudding?
Vanilla bread pudding pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Consider serving it warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Whipped cream also adds a light touch on top. For an extra flavor boost, fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas can complement the sweetness beautifully. These additions create an indulgent experience that enhances this classic dessert.
Conclusion for Vanilla Bread Pudding:
In summary, vanilla bread pudding is a delightful dessert that combines simple ingredients into a rich custard-filled treat. By using stale bread and flavorful additions like raisins or nuts, you can elevate its taste remarkably. Baking time is key; aim for 45 to 60 minutes at 350°F for optimal results. Prepare it ahead of time for convenience and pair it with ice cream or caramel sauce for added enjoyment. Enjoy this comforting dessert that is sure to impress!
Vanilla Bread Pudding
Vanilla bread pudding is a comforting dessert that combines simple ingredients into a rich, creamy delight. With its golden crust and soft, custardy center, this dish evokes nostalgia and warmth in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit to elevate the experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 cups stale bread, cubed (preferably French or challah)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add cubed stale bread to the custard mixture and gently fold until well-coated; let sit for 15 minutes.
- Grease a baking dish and pour in the mixture, drizzling any remaining custard on top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and slightly puffed.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (115g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: For added texture, mix in chocolate chips or nuts before baking. Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique twist. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days; reheat as needed.
