Bev Slimm'S Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce
A comforting bread pudding infused with cinnamon and raisins, served with vanilla sauce—perfect for dessert gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine milk and eggs; pour over bread cubes.
- Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and raisins.
- Pour mixture into an 8-inch round baking dish.
- Place in a shallow pan on the oven rack; pour hot water around it 1-inch deep.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or until a knife inserted halfway between center and outside comes out clean.
- Serve with vanilla sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk or adding a splash of cream. If you don't have raisins, dried cranberries or chopped nuts make excellent substitutes. You can also spice it up with a pinch of nutmeg or add a splash of bourbon for extra depth. Ensure the bread is truly stale for the best texture, as it absorbs the custard mixture better.
Serving Suggestions
This bread pudding is delightful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with homemade vanilla sauce drizzled on top. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat or alongside fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. It's a perfect dessert for gatherings or a comforting family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Serving it warm enhances its flavors and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bev Slimm'S Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce contains roughly 765 calories, with 10g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1723mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
While day-old bread is preferable for absorbing the custard without becoming mushy, you can use fresh bread if necessary. Toasting the fresh bread cubes lightly in the oven for a few minutes can help achieve a better texture in the final dish.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the bread pudding?
If you prefer a less sweet bread pudding, reduce the brown sugar by a quarter cup. Alternatively, you can substitute some of the sugar with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas for a natural sweetness without adding extra sugar.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding the day before and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining or busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).