**Introduction:**
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a classic comfort dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. This rich, custardy pudding made from stale bread and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, is topped with a smooth vanilla sauce, making it a beloved choice for family gatherings and special occasions.
**Origin and Cultural Significance:**
Bread pudding has its roots in early European cuisine, where it was a way to use up stale bread and reduce food waste. It became popular in the United States, particularly in Southern cuisine, as a hearty, economical dessert. Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is a traditional recipe that embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort food and reflects the historical practice of repurposing leftovers into satisfying meals.
**Ingredients Quantity and Optional Additions:**
For the Bread Pudding:
– 6 cups stale bread cubes (about 1 loaf of French or Italian bread)
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional)
For the Vanilla Sauce:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon butter
**Optional Additions:**
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
– 1/4 cup bourbon or rum (to add to the pudding mixture for extra flavor)
**Tips for Success:**
– **Bread Quality:** Use stale bread for the best texture. Fresh bread will not absorb the custard mixture as well.
– **Soaking:** Allow the bread to soak in the milk mixture for at least 15 minutes to ensure it absorbs enough liquid.
– **Even Cooking:** Stir the bread pudding halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and prevent the top from getting too brown.
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare Bread:** Place the bread cubes in a large bowl.
3. **Make Custard:** In another bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, eggs, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour this mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard mixture. Stir in raisins or currants if using.
4. **Bake:** Transfer the bread mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
5. **Make Vanilla Sauce:** While the pudding is baking, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
6. **Serve:** Serve the warm bread pudding with a generous drizzle of vanilla sauce.
**Description:**
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a comforting, indulgent dessert featuring a rich custard made from stale bread, aromatic spices, and a velvety vanilla sauce. This classic recipe offers a taste of nostalgia with every bite, making it a cherished choice for those seeking a hearty and satisfying treat.
**Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):**
– Calories: Approximately 350
– Total Fat: 15g
– Saturated Fat: 8g
– Cholesterol: 90mg
– Sodium: 220mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 50g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 35g
– Protein: 7g
**Conclusion and Recommendation:**
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a timeless dessert that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. It is perfect for special occasions and family gatherings, offering a sweet ending to any meal.
**Embracing Healthful Indulgence:**
To make this bread pudding a bit healthier, consider using whole-grain bread, reducing the sugar content, and substituting some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. You can also lighten the vanilla sauce by using low-fat milk or a sugar substitute. Pairing the pudding with fresh fruit or a light fruit compote can add nutritional value and balance the sweetness.