Decadent Bread Pudding with Sweet Custard Sauce: A Comforting Dessert for Any Occasion

Bread pudding is a classic comfort dessert, and when paired with a rich, sweet custard sauce, it becomes an irresistible treat. Perfect for dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack, this bread pudding recipe is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The combination of soft, pillowy bread with a silky custard drizzle makes for a dessert that will quickly become a favorite. Let’s get started with this decadent recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Bread Pudding:

• 6 cups of cubed day-old bread (French bread or brioche works well)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• Pinch of salt

For the Custard Sauce:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Pudding

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the cubed bread into the mixture, making sure the bread is fully soaked in the liquid. If using, add the raisins as well.
5. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
6. Pour the bread and custard mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading the bread evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden and the pudding is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Sauce

1. While the bread pudding is baking, make the custard sauce.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a simmer. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the butter until it’s melted and smooth.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the bread pudding is baked and golden, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Serve warm with the homemade custard sauce drizzled over the top for a rich, decadent dessert experience.

Tips for the Perfect Bread Pudding:

• For a more indulgent version, you can substitute half of the milk with half-and-half or use all heavy cream for extra richness.
• If you don’t have raisins, you can add other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates for a twist.
• Leftover bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the microwave for a quick snack.

Conclusion:

This Decadent Bread Pudding with Sweet Custard Sauce is the perfect comforting dessert that everyone will love. It’s easy to make, and the creamy custard sauce adds a layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the warm, pillowy bread. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just as a sweet treat, this dessert will quickly become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a slice of comfort in every bite!