Description
This classic Bread Pudding in Casserole with Vanilla Sauce is a warm, comforting dessert featuring soft, custardy bread soaked in a fragrant vanilla-cinnamon custard and baked to golden perfection. Topped with a rich, creamy vanilla sauce, this easy-to-make recipe transforms simple leftover bread into a luxurious treat perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (French bread or brioche)
- 4 cups milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Vanilla Sauce:
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in melted butter.
- Place bread cubes evenly in the baking dish. Pour custard mixture over bread, pressing down lightly to absorb. Let sit 10 minutes.
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until golden brown and set.
- While baking, prepare vanilla sauce: whisk milk, cream, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until thickened and simmering. Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla extract.
- Serve bread pudding warm with vanilla sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
- Variations: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apples for fruitiness. Mix in chocolate chips or nuts for texture. Add nutmeg or allspice for deeper flavor.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Reheat in microwave or oven. Store vanilla sauce separately and reheat gently.
- Tips: Use day-old bread for best texture. The vanilla sauce should be thick yet pourable.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Classic
