### **Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce: A Classic Comfort Dessert**
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### **Introduction:**
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a nostalgic dessert that brings together simple, wholesome ingredients to create a warm, comforting treat. Soft bread absorbs a rich custard mixture, resulting in a moist, flavorful pudding, while the creamy vanilla sauce enhances each bite. This timeless dish is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any time you’re craving a cozy, indulgent dessert.
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### **Origin and Cultural Significance:**
Bread pudding has a long history, with origins tracing back to Europe in the 11th century, when it was known as “poor man’s pudding.” It was a clever way to use up stale bread, preventing waste while providing a filling and satisfying dessert. The concept spread throughout Europe and eventually made its way to America, where variations of the dish became popular, especially in the Southern United States.
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is a staple in American comfort food, often associated with home-cooked meals and family traditions. The vanilla sauce, commonly added in American recipes, elevates the pudding, creating a delightful contrast with the bread’s texture. This dish continues to be a cherished dessert in many households, passed down through generations, symbolizing the warmth of home and the joy of sharing simple pleasures.
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### **Ingredients & Quantity:**
#### **For the Bread Pudding:**
– **6 cups stale bread cubes** (preferably day-old white bread or challah)
– **2 cups whole milk**
– **1 cup heavy cream**
– **3/4 cup granulated sugar**
– **3 large eggs**
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**
– **1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon**
– **1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg**
– **1/2 teaspoon salt**
– **1/2 cup raisins or currants** (optional)
– **2 tablespoons unsalted butter** (melted)
#### **For the Vanilla Sauce:**
– **1 cup heavy cream**
– **1/2 cup whole milk**
– **1/4 cup granulated sugar**
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**
– **1 tablespoon cornstarch** (optional, for thickening)
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### **Optional Additions:**
– **Chopped nuts** (e.g., pecans, walnuts, or almonds) for extra texture and flavor.
– **Fresh fruit** like bananas, berries, or sliced apples, either mixed into the bread pudding or as a topping.
– **Dark rum or bourbon** (1-2 tablespoons) can be added to the pudding or sauce for a more adult twist.
– **Spices** such as allspice, ginger, or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile.
– **Chocolate chips** for a rich, decadent twist.
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### **Tips for Success:**
– **Use Stale Bread:** Fresh bread doesn’t absorb the custard as well, so it’s best to use day-old bread. If you don’t have stale bread, toast the slices lightly to dry them out.
– **Soak the Bread Well:** Allow the bread cubes to soak in the custard mixture for at least 15-20 minutes before baking. This ensures the pudding is rich and custardy rather than dry.
– **Egg Temperature:** Bring your eggs to room temperature to avoid curdling when mixing with warm milk.
– **Don’t Overbake:** The bread pudding should be set but still slightly moist in the center. Overbaking can result in a dry texture.
– **Let It Rest:** Allow the bread pudding to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to let the flavors meld and improve the texture.
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### **Instructions:**
#### **For the Bread Pudding:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
2. **Prepare the Bread:** Cut or tear the stale bread into cubes, and place them in the prepared baking dish.
3. **Make the Custard:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. If you’re using raisins or currants, stir them in now.
4. **Soak the Bread:** Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is soaked. Gently press the bread down with a spoon to ensure it absorbs the liquid. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to fully soak up the custard.
5. **Bake the Pudding:** Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the soaked bread and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown on top and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
#### **For the Vanilla Sauce:**
1. **Combine the Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is warm (but not boiling).
2. **Thicken the Sauce:** If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of cold milk and add it to the warm cream mixture. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Serve:** Once the bread pudding is done, let it cool slightly, then drizzle the warm vanilla sauce over the top before serving.
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### **Description:**
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is the epitome of comfort food. The bread pudding itself is rich and custardy, with soft bread absorbing the creamy custard mixture, which is delicately spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. The vanilla sauce adds a silky richness, balancing the warmth and spice of the pudding. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this dessert is both satisfying and comforting, evoking a sense of nostalgia with each bite.
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### **Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):**
– **Calories:** 300-350 kcal
– **Protein:** 6g
– **Carbohydrates:** 45g
– **Fat:** 18g
– **Saturated Fat:** 10g
– **Cholesterol:** 80-100mg
– **Sodium:** 200mg
– **Fiber:** 2g
– **Sugar:** 30g
*Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on the exact ingredients used (e.g., type of bread, sugar, or cream) and portion sizes.*
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### **Conclusion:**
Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. It’s a classic that has endured the test of time, offering a balance of rich custard and soft, tender bread in each serving. The vanilla sauce adds a luxurious finish, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether enjoyed during a cozy family dinner or at a festive gathering, this dessert will leave everyone satisfied and nostalgic for simpler times.
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### **Recommendation:**
If you’re seeking a dessert that feels like a warm embrace, Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is highly recommended. It’s a simple yet decadent treat, ideal for both casual and special occasions. Its versatility allows for personalizations, whether adding fruit, spices, or a splash of rum for extra depth. Embrace this classic dessert as a way to indulge in comforting flavors and create lasting memories. Whether served for a holiday feast or as an everyday treat, it’s a timeless recipe that never goes out of style.