Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug, this Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is just the thing! There’s something incredibly comforting about this classic dish—its rich, creamy texture and golden top are sure to bring a smile to your face. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want to treat yourself or for family gatherings that require a little extra sweetness, this recipe is a beloved favorite in my home.

What makes it truly special is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels indulgent but is also incredibly satisfying. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful custard bread pudding that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can whip this up quickly and let it bake while you enjoy other activities.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy texture and sweet flavors of this bread pudding.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and optional orange zest creates a delightful aroma and taste that fills your home with warmth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather the simple ingredients for our custard bread pudding. These are easy-to-find items that come together beautifully to create a rich dessert everyone will enjoy!

For the Bread Pudding

• 16 oz loaf of French bread (454g)
• 3 ¾ cups whole milk
• 1 ½ cup heavy cream
• 7 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 ¼ cup sugar
• Optional zest of 1/2 an orange

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist.
• Fruit Infusion: Add fresh berries or diced apples for a fruity flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note that complements the richness of the custard.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your French bread into cubes. This helps the bread soak up all that delicious custard mixture. Letting it sit out for a little while before mixing gives it just the right texture.

Step 2: Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla, and sugar. This step is crucial as it combines all those flavors into one rich custard base. If you’re using orange zest, add it here too—it adds such a lovely brightness!

Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard

Gently fold the bread cubes into the custard mixture. Make sure each piece of bread gets coated well so every bite is bursting with flavor! Allow this mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes; this soaking time ensures every piece becomes soft and custardy.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven and pour everything into a greased baking dish. Baking slowly at a lower temperature ensures even cooking, resulting in that perfect golden top we all love. Keep an eye on it towards the end; when it’s set but still slightly wobbly in the center, it’s done!

Step 5: Serve with Vanilla Sauce

Once baked, let your custard bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with homemade vanilla sauce—or enjoy plain if you prefer! Either way, it’s going to be delightful.

Enjoy every spoonful of this Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce! It’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home too.

Pro Tips for Making Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Making custard bread pudding can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure yours turns out perfectly every time!

• Use stale bread: Day-old or stale French bread absorbs the custard mixture better, resulting in a creamier texture. Fresh bread may become too soggy.
• Let it soak: Allow the bread to soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step ensures that every bite is rich and flavorful.
• Bake in a water bath: Placing your baking dish in a larger pan filled with hot water helps regulate the temperature, preventing the custard from curdling and resulting in a silky texture.
• Check for doneness: Instead of just relying on time, gently shake the dish; if the center jiggles slightly but doesn’t appear liquidy, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
• Cool before serving: Letting your pudding cool for at least 15 minutes after baking allows it to set up properly, making it easier to cut and serve.

How to Serve Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Serving custard bread pudding is all about presentation and enhancing its deliciousness. Here are some creative ideas to make your dish shine.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to your dish.
• Fresh berries: Add a handful of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a pop of color and tartness that beautifully balances the richness of the pudding.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dairy-free alternative that complements the creamy texture of the pudding while adding a hint of coconut flavor.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside warm bread pudding creates a delightful contrast in temperature and enhances the dessert experience.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light counterbalance to the richness of the dish, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing your dessert with a warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea can enhance flavors and create a cozy atmosphere around your dining table.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to enjoying an unforgettable Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This custard bread pudding is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert or breakfast with minimal fuss throughout the week. Here’s how you can store it and keep it fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• To maintain the texture, cover the top with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before freezing.
• Slice it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date so you can keep track!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen; otherwise, you can reheat directly from the fridge.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place slices in a baking dish.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For a crispy top, remove foil for the last 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful custard bread pudding.

Can I make Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just follow the recipe instructions and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

What should I serve with Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce?

This pudding pairs beautifully with whipped cream or fresh berries. You could also drizzle additional vanilla sauce on top for extra sweetness.

How do I know when my Custard Bread Pudding is done?

The custard bread pudding is ready when it has puffed up slightly and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. A golden-brown top indicates it’s perfectly baked!

Can I substitute ingredients for Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk instead of whole milk or coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

I hope this custard bread pudding brings warmth and sweetness to your kitchen! It’s a special recipe that combines simplicity with indulgence, perfect for family gatherings or quiet mornings at home. Enjoy making this dish, and feel free to share your experience—I’m eager to hear how it turns out for you!