If there’s a dessert that wraps you up in a warm hug and instantly transports you to cherished family gatherings, it’s Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce. Imagine tender cubes of custard-soaked bread, golden and gently spiced, tucked beneath a pool of silky, homemade vanilla sauce—each bite combines nostalgia and comfort in the sweetest possible way. Whether you’re craving something classic for a weekend treat or pulling together a crowd-pleasing finale for Sunday dinner, this is the dessert that never lets you down.

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need simple pantry staples to create layers of flavor and the perfect texture. Every ingredient in this classic recipe has its own important role, giving Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce that signature taste and homey, irresistible allure.

Day-old bread (6 cups, cubed): Slightly stale bread soaks up the custard beautifully; choose French or brioche for a rich texture.
Whole milk (2 cups): Adds creaminess and ensures the custard is moist but not soggy.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Brings extra richness for a luxurious result.
Eggs (4 large): Essential for setting the pudding and creating a silky texture.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup for pudding, 1/2 cup for sauce): Lends the perfect amount of sweetness to both the bread pudding and vanilla sauce.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): A warm spice that gives the pudding its comforting flavor.
Nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle depth and nutty aroma that balances the sweetness.
Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon for pudding, 1 teaspoon for sauce): This is the soul of the dessert, making every bite fragrant and homey.
Raisins or chopped nuts (1/2 cup, optional): For a little extra texture and pops of surprise in each bite.
Butter (2 tablespoons melted for pudding, 1 tablespoon unsalted for sauce): Adds richness and helps the pudding develop a golden crust while giving the sauce a smooth finish.
All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon, for sauce): Thickens the vanilla sauce just enough to be pourable but luscious.
Salt (pinch, for sauce): Enhances all the flavors and ensures balance.

How to Make Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This little step makes certain your bread pudding releases effortlessly and encourages those lovely golden edges we all adore.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a full tablespoon of vanilla extract. This is where the magic begins—the mixture should be creamy, beautifully speckled with warming spices, and delightfully fragrant.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Add the cubed, day-old bread into the custard. Stir gently to coat, making sure every chunky cube has a soak and a swim in that rich mixture. Let the bread soak for 15 minutes so it absorbs every drop—this is how Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce gets such an unforgettable, custardy texture.

Step 4: Add Raisins or Nuts (Optional)

If you like a bit of texture or a chewy sweet surprise, fold in the raisins or chopped nuts now. This step is optional, but it really lives up to Grandma’s “something special” touch.

Step 5: Bake the Pudding

Pour the bread mixture into your prepared dish and drizzle the melted butter across the top. Slide into the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, until the center is just set and the top is golden brown. Let it rest for about 10 minutes—the aroma will tempt you, but the flavors and custard settle best with a short rest.

Step 6: Prepare the Vanilla Sauce

While the pudding is baking, it’s time for that luscious vanilla sauce that makes Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce so unforgettable. In a small saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt. Gradually stir in the milk, then cook over medium heat, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. As soon as it thickens (about 5–7 minutes), remove from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Spoon warm squares of bread pudding into bowls—or onto dessert plates if you’re going for fancy. Pour the warm vanilla sauce right over the top. Now comes the part you’ve been waiting for: the first, glorious bite of Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce!

How to Serve Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Garnishes

A generous drizzle of vanilla sauce is just the beginning! Top your bread pudding with a swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a dusting of powdered sugar to make each serving extra special. If you love a hot-cold contrast, a scoop of vanilla ice cream over a warm slice is pure heaven.

Side Dishes

While Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is undoubtedly the star of any dessert table, it pairs surprisingly well with a bowl of fresh berries or a simple fruit compote. On brunch menus, offer with strong coffee or hot tea for perfect balance.

Creative Ways to Present

You don’t have to serve it from the pan every time. Try cutting the pudding into neat squares and stacking them parfait-style in cups, layering bread pudding with vanilla sauce and maybe a spoonful of stewed fruit. Or, for dinner parties, plate each serving with a fine-mesh dusting of cinnamon and a few candied nuts for a stunning finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover your cooled bread pudding tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container; it will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store the vanilla sauce separately in a jar or sealed container—this keeps everything tasting fresh and prevents any sogginess.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, minus the sauce. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. It’s best to make the vanilla sauce fresh before serving, but you can also freeze it separately if needed.

Reheating

For the best flavor and texture, reheat slices in the oven at 325°F until just warmed through (cover with foil if you don’t want the top to get too crispy). You can also microwave individual servings for a quick treat. Warm the vanilla sauce gently over low heat, stirring frequently.

FAQs

What’s the best bread to use for Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce?

Day-old French bread or brioche are ideal choices—their slightly stale texture absorbs the custard without turning mushy, and their flavor brings a lovely richness. Avoid breads with strong flavors or lots of seeds for the most classic results.

Can I make this recipe dairy free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite plant-based milk and cream alternatives, and use vegan butter. The flavor will be a little different, but the result is still deliciously satisfying and comforting.

How do I know when the bread pudding is done?

The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp, and the center will be set but just a touch wobbly. Insert a knife in the center—if it comes out mostly clean (a bit moist is okay), it’s ready.

Can I add fruit or chocolate chips to this bread pudding?

Absolutely. Fold in a handful of dried fruit (apricots, cherries, cranberries) or chocolate chips with the bread for a fun twist. You can even sprinkle chopped apples or pears on top before baking for a seasonal upgrade.

Is it possible to double the vanilla sauce?

It sure is! If your household is anything like mine, people will be scraping the bowl for extra sauce. Double all the sauce ingredients and cook as directed so every bite of Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce can be generously topped.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce before, there’s no time like the present. This is pure comfort food with a side of happy memories, ready to bring a little extra warmth to your table. Give it a whirl—your friends and family will thank you with full hearts and empty plates!