Nothing says comfort like a warm, old-fashioned bread pudding. Grandma’s version is soft, custardy, and bursting with rich flavors, topped with a luscious homemade vanilla sauce. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a cozy dessert any time of year!
Ingredients:
For the Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (white or brioche)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
For the Vanilla Sauce:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven – Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Bread Pudding – Place cubed bread in a large bowl. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter. Pour over bread and gently press to soak. Stir in raisins or nuts if desired.
- Bake – Transfer mixture to prepared dish and bake 45–50 minutes, until custard is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Make the Vanilla Sauce – In a saucepan, heat milk and cream until steaming. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar. Slowly pour hot milk mixture into yolks, whisking constantly. Return to saucepan, cook over low heat until thickened (do not boil). Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt.
- Serve & Enjoy – Serve warm bread pudding with a generous drizzle of vanilla sauce.
This Grandma’s bread pudding recipe is comforting, nostalgic, and perfect for dessert lovers. Soft, custardy, and paired with rich vanilla sauce, it’s a timeless classic everyone will enjoy.

