My grandmother from Ireland shared this recipe with me, and I promise I prepare it throughout the entire year!

Bread pudding is a timeless dessert that has graced tables across the world, with roots tracing back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Originally a way to use up stale bread, it has evolved into a beloved comfort food that combines the richness of custard with the hearty texture of bread. This classic version, paired with a luscious vanilla custard, is perfect for those who appreciate the simple yet indulgent flavors of traditional desserts. Making this dish is not only a delightful culinary experience but also a nod to the resourcefulness and creativity of cooks from generations past.

This classic bread pudding pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a touch of freshness, consider serving it with a side of mixed berries or a simple fruit compote. A warm cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine can also complement the rich flavors of the pudding, making it an ideal choice for a cozy evening dessert.

Classic Bread Pudding with Vanilla Custard

Ingredients

6 cups of day-old bread, cubed
2 cups of whole milk
1 cup of heavy cream
4 large eggs
3/4 cup of granulated sugar
1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

Add the milk and heavy cream to the egg mixture, whisking until smooth.

Place the cubed bread in the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle the raisins evenly over the bread.

Pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing down gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.

Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the pudding.

Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

While the pudding bakes, prepare the vanilla custard sauce by heating 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.

Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with the vanilla custard sauce.

Variations & Tips

For a twist on this classic recipe, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, for a richer taste. For a boozy version, soak the raisins in rum or bourbon before adding them to the pudding. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in the custard mixture to 1/2 cup.