Prepare to be transported to dessert heaven with this irresistible bread pudding that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece! Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this classic American dessert promises to wow your taste buds and warm your soul. Imagine golden-brown, custardy bread studded with sweet raisins and topped with a silky smooth vanilla custard sauce that will make everyone at the table beg for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed bread
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to reach the right temperature for baking the bread pudding.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 6 cups of cubed bread and 2 cups of milk. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the milk.
- While the bread is soaking, in a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of granulated sugar, 4 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- After the bread has soaked, gently fold the egg mixture into the bread and milk mixture. If using, add the 1/2 cup of raisins at this point, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour the bread pudding mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the custard sauce. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 2 cups of milk and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is warm, but do not let it boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 large egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
- Once tempered, slowly pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture, stirring continuously.
- Continue to cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Once the bread pudding is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the warm bread pudding with the custard sauce drizzled over the top. Enjoy your delicious homemade bread pudding with custard sauce!
Tips
- Use day-old bread for the best texture - slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture more effectively.
- Don't rush the soaking process; letting bread sit in milk helps create a more tender pudding.
- Temper your egg yolks carefully when making the custard sauce to prevent scrambling.
- For extra richness, consider using half-and-half instead of milk.
- Experiment with add-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices to customize your pudding.
- Serve warm for the most luxurious experience, but the pudding is also delicious when served at room temperature.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute.
- Always grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg
