Ohhh, that’s a classic ❤️ cozy, humble, and perfect. Here’s a true old-fashioned Grandma-style bread pudding—not fancy, just warm and comforting—with a simple vanilla sauce you pour on generously.
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding
Ingredients
- 4–5 cups day-old bread, torn or cubed (white bread is perfect)
- 2 cups milk
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (plus more for greasing)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional but traditional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter an 8×8 baking dish.
- Fill dish with bread cubes. Sprinkle raisins on top if using.
- Mix custard: In a bowl, whisk milk, eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour over bread and gently press down so everything gets soaked.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until set in the center and golden on top.
Old-Fashioned Vanilla Sauce
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Heat: In a small saucepan, whisk cream, brown sugar, cornstarch, butter, and salt over medium heat.
- Simmer: Stir constantly until thickened (3–5 minutes).
- Finish: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Serve
Spoon warm bread pudding into bowls and pour that vanilla sauce like Grandma would—no restraint 😄
💡 Grandma Tips:
- Day-old bread is key
- If you like it softer, cover loosely with foil for the first 20 minutes
- A splash of bourbon in the sauce is optional… but very traditional
If you want a Southern custardy version, extra saucy, or no-raisin ever version (I get it), just say the word 💛
