Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

#### **Instructions:**

**1. Prepare the Bread Pudding:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
– Tear the bread slices into small pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish. If you’re using raisins, sprinkle them over the bread pieces.
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Once the mixture is well combined, pour it over the bread, ensuring that all the pieces are soaked.
– Drizzle the melted butter over the top and press down gently with a spoon to make sure the bread is evenly soaked in the custard mixture.
– Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown on top and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

**2. Make the Vanilla Sauce:**
– While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
– Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in the vanilla extract and butter. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
– Remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside.

**3. Serve the Bread Pudding:**
– Once the bread pudding is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
– Serve warm with a generous drizzle of the homemade vanilla sauce on top.

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### **Tips for Perfecting Grandma’s Bread Pudding:**

– **Bread Choice:**
For the best results, use slightly stale bread. The bread should be able to absorb the custard without becoming too soggy. Challah, brioche, or even a French baguette works wonderfully in this recipe.

– **Customizing Add-ins:**
While raisins are a traditional addition, feel free to add other ingredients to customize the bread pudding to your liking. Chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts), chocolate chips, or dried cranberries make excellent variations.

– **Serve It Warm or Cold:**
Bread pudding can be served warm, fresh from the oven, or chilled for a more solid texture. Some people even enjoy it the next day, as the flavors have a chance to meld together.

– **Vanilla Sauce Variation:**
If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a little cornstarch to the heavy cream and sugar mixture to create a richer, more indulgent topping. Alternatively, you can skip the sauce and enjoy the bread pudding as-is for a lighter treat.

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### **Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite**

This bread pudding recipe is a classic that has been passed down through generations, often becoming a beloved family tradition. The warmth of the homemade vanilla sauce paired with the comforting texture of the bread pudding brings people together. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or even as a weekend treat. Every bite takes you back to simpler times, reminding you of the joy of home-cooked meals.

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a dessert that never goes out of style. It’s a perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and warmth—just the way grandma made it. Enjoy this sweet, comforting dish with your loved ones, and create new memories while savoring a timeless classic.

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### **Conclusion**

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is more than just a dessert; it’s a hug in a bowl. With its comforting flavors and simple ingredients, it’s the perfect way to end any meal. Whether you’re trying this recipe for the first time or continuing a family tradition, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The homemade vanilla sauce takes it over the top, making this an unforgettable dessert that will be cherished for generations to come.