Classic Raisin Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce – A Heartwarming Dessert Just Like Grandma’s!
Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of bread pudding wafting from the oven, transporting you back to cozy memories of family gatherings and the loving touch of grandma’s kitchen.
Classic raisin bread pudding is the epitome of nostalgia, combining soft cubes of bread, plump raisins, warm spices, and a rich custard into a dessert that feels like a hug in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding:
6 cups cubed day-old bread (French or brioche)
½ cup raisins
2 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
For the Vanilla Sauce:
1 cup whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a medium baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Cube your day-old bread and spread it evenly into the dish, then sprinkle the raisins on top so they’re distributed throughout the bread.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined. This mixture will form the custard base for the pudding, giving it that signature soft texture and rich flavor.
Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the cubed bread and raisins in the baking dish. Press down gently with a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to soak thoroughly.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
While the pudding bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the milk, cream, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to thicken.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolk. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture into the yolk to temper it, then return it to the saucepan. Continue stirring until thickened, then remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
Once the bread pudding is finished baking, let it cool slightly before serving. Spoon the warm vanilla sauce over each portion and enjoy the sweet, spiced flavor that brings back memories of home.
How to Make
Begin by selecting a good quality day-old bread, such as French bread or brioche, which will soak up the custard without becoming mushy. Cut it into even cubes to ensure uniform texture throughout the pudding.
Next, layer the bread cubes in a greased baking dish, scattering raisins evenly between the layers. The raisins will plump up during baking, adding bursts of sweetness in every bite.
Whisk together the custard ingredients—milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg—until smooth and well mixed. This combination gives the pudding its creamy and flavorful base.
Pour the custard evenly over the bread and raisins, making sure to moisten all the bread. Press the bread down gently to help it absorb the mixture, and let it rest to soak for a few minutes.
Bake the pudding in a preheated oven until the top is golden and slightly crisp, while the inside remains soft and custardy. This balance of textures is key to a successful bread pudding.
As it bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce by heating milk, cream, sugar, and cornstarch, then incorporating the egg yolk. Finish the sauce with a touch of butter and vanilla for a luscious, silky texture.
Serve the warm bread pudding drizzled with vanilla sauce, and savor the comforting flavors that make this dessert a beloved classic across generations.
Variations
For a fruity twist, try adding chopped apples, pears, or dried cranberries along with or instead of raisins. These fruits add bursts of tartness and texture that complement the rich custard.
You can swap the French bread or brioche for challah, croissants, or even cinnamon rolls. Each variation brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Incorporate nuts such as chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
To make a chocolate version, sprinkle chocolate chips between the layers of bread before baking. The chocolate melts into the custard, creating a decadent dessert.
For a boozy take, soak the raisins in rum or bourbon for about 30 minutes before adding them to the dish. This adds a rich, adult flavor that enhances the traditional recipe.
Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or maple instead of vanilla for a unique spin. Just a small change can bring a new dimension to the dish.
Try serving with whipped cream, ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce in place of the vanilla sauce. Each topping offers a different indulgent finish.
Tips
Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best results. Fresh bread can become too soggy and lose the structure needed for a good pudding.
Let the bread soak in the custard mixture for at least 10–15 minutes before baking. This ensures the inside is tender and fully infused with flavor.
Don’t overbake—pull the pudding from the oven once the center is just set. Overcooking can dry it out and make it rubbery.
When making the vanilla sauce, stir constantly and don’t rush the process. The sauce thickens gradually and requires patience to avoid lumps or curdling.
To keep the raisins from sinking, toss them lightly in a bit of flour before adding them to the bread. This helps distribute them more evenly throughout the pudding.
Customize the spice mix to your taste. Add a pinch of cloves, allspice, or even a dash of cardamom for a different flavor profile.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated gently in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of milk before reheating to bring back moisture.
Conclusion
Classic raisin bread pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a heartfelt reminder of simpler times, shared family meals, and the comforting embrace of home-cooked love. With its tender bread, warm spices, and creamy vanilla sauce, it’s a dish that speaks to the soul as much as the palate.
Whether you’re making it from scratch or reviving a family recipe, this dessert proves that sometimes, the old-fashioned way truly is the best. So gather your ingredients, warm up the oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a timeless sweet that never goes out of style.