The aroma of warm vanilla bread pudding wafts through the air, inviting you to dive into a world of creamy custard and soft, pillowy bread. Each bite promises a delightful explosion of flavors, with hints of cinnamon dancing alongside rich vanilla, creating a comforting embrace for your taste buds.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Vanilla Bread Pudding
- How to Make Vanilla Bread Pudding
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What is Vanilla Bread Pudding?
- How do I make Vanilla Bread Pudding from scratch?
- Can I use different types of bread for Vanilla Bread Pudding?
- How should I serve Vanilla Bread Pudding?
- Conclusion for Vanilla Bread Pudding :
- 📖 Recipe Card
As I recall my childhood, I can almost hear the laughter echoing in the kitchen while my grandmother prepared her famous vanilla bread pudding. It was our family’s go-to dessert for any special occasion. Whether it was Thanksgiving or just a cozy Sunday dinner, this dessert never failed to warm our hearts and fill our bellies with joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This vanilla bread pudding is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs
- The rich flavor profile will make you feel like you’ve indulged in a gourmet treat
- Its golden-brown crust and creamy interior create an irresistible visual appeal
- You can serve it warm as a dessert or chilled for a delightful brunch treat
Ingredients for Vanilla Bread Pudding
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Stale Bread: Use day-old bread like brioche or challah for the best texture; it soaks up the custard beautifully.
Whole Milk: Opt for whole milk to ensure your pudding remains rich and creamy; low-fat versions may yield dry results.
Heavy Cream: A splash of heavy cream adds luxuriousness and depth to your pudding’s flavor profile.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dish; feel free to adjust based on your preference or use brown sugar for added caramel notes.
Eggs: Eggs create that custardy texture we crave; ensure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.
Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for maximum flavor; imitation vanilla just won’t cut it here!
Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon elevates the overall taste; too much might overshadow the vanilla, so go light!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Vanilla Bread Pudding
Get ready to transform those stale bread slices into something magical with these simple steps!
Prepare Your Bread: Start by tearing your stale bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Let them sit out while you prepare the custard mixture.
Whisk Together Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the custard over the torn bread pieces gently; let them soak for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until all the bread is saturated with that heavenly liquid.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because nobody wants cold bread pudding after all that anticipation!
Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease an appropriate-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spoon the soaked bread mixture into the dish evenly.
Bake Until Golden: Place it in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes until puffed up and golden on top. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow your vanilla bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with caramel sauce or serve with whipped cream for extra indulgence!
Enjoy every spoonful of this nostalgic dessert that fills both your stomach and heart with warmth!
You Must Know
- Vanilla bread pudding is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to any table
- This dish is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to use up leftover bread
- Its creamy texture and sweet vanilla aroma will have you coming back for seconds, or thirds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best vanilla bread pudding, start by preheating your oven while you mix the custard. Next, soak your bread cubes in the custard for about 30 minutes before baking. This ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your vanilla bread pudding! Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist, or toss in some chopped nuts for extra crunch. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also add a delightful surprise.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover vanilla bread pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up or place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect vanilla bread pudding, ensure your bread is slightly stale so it absorbs the custard better
- Don’t skip soaking time; it makes a world of difference
- Lastly, let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your tongue on that deliciousness
Sometimes I whip up this vanilla bread pudding when friends are over, and they always ask for seconds—it’s like magic! The secret? A dollop of whipped cream on top makes everything better.
FAQs :
What is Vanilla Bread Pudding?
Vanilla bread pudding is a classic dessert made from stale bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla. This comforting dish transforms leftover bread into a creamy, custard-like treat. You can enhance its flavor with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Traditionally baked until golden brown, it is often served warm with a drizzle of sauce or a scoop of ice cream. This dessert has variations worldwide but remains beloved for its simplicity and rich taste.
How do I make Vanilla Bread Pudding from scratch?
To make vanilla bread pudding from scratch, start by cubing stale bread and placing it in a baking dish. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and any desired spices. Pour this mixture over the bread cubes and allow them to soak for about 30 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven until the top is set and golden brown. This method ensures that each bite is flavorful and satisfying.
Can I use different types of bread for Vanilla Bread Pudding?
Yes, you can use various types of bread for vanilla bread pudding! While traditional recipes call for white bread or brioche, feel free to experiment with challah, whole wheat, or even croissants. Each type adds its unique texture and flavor to the dish. Just ensure that the bread is somewhat stale to absorb the custard mixture effectively while maintaining its shape during baking.
How should I serve Vanilla Bread Pudding?
You can serve vanilla bread pudding in many delightful ways. A popular option is to drizzle it with warm caramel sauce or chocolate sauce for added richness. Alternatively, top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Fresh fruit, such as berries or bananas, also makes an excellent topping that complements the sweetness of the pudding.
Conclusion for Vanilla Bread Pudding :
In summary, vanilla bread pudding is a delightful dessert that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This recipe highlights how easy it is to create a comforting dish using stale bread and basic pantry items. Whether you choose to serve it plain or elevate it with sauces and toppings, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. With its rich flavor and creamy texture, vanilla bread pudding remains a timeless favorite for any occasion.
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📖 Recipe Card
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Vanilla Bread Pudding
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Vanilla bread pudding is a classic dessert that masterfully transforms stale bread into a creamy, custard-filled delight. Infused with rich vanilla and warm cinnamon, each bite offers a comforting embrace that warms the soul. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings, this easy-to-make dish can be served warm or chilled, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 6 cups stale brioche or challah bread, torn into pieces
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the torn bread pieces in a large bowl and set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread and let soak for 15 minutes.
- Grease a baking dish and transfer the soaked mixture evenly into it.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with caramel sauce or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
