Bread Pudding in Casserole with Vanilla Sauce
This classic bread pudding baked in a casserole dish is a comforting and delicious dessert that transforms simple day-old bread into a rich, custardy treat. Paired with a smooth, homemade vanilla sauce, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
6 cups cubed day-old bread (French bread or brioche)
4 cups milk
4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Vanilla Sauce:
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish generously with butter.
- Place the cubed bread in the prepared casserole dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to soak.
- Bake the bread pudding uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- While the bread pudding bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Serve the warm bread pudding with a generous drizzle of the vanilla sauce.
Notes
- Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Swap cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
- Use almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Mix in chocolate chips or swirl caramel sauce into the custard for a richer dessert.
- Layer sliced apples or pears within the bread cubes before baking for a fruitier version.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8th of recipe)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
