Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

There’s something truly magical about Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding. Growing up, I remember the sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen when my grandma whipped up this timeless dessert. I often found myself sneaking little bites before it even made it to the oven! Let’s dive into this cozy, comforting treat that brings back so many warm memories.

What Is Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding?

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding is a classic dessert that takes simple stale bread and transforms it into a heavenly dish of custardy goodness. It’s a lovely dessert that combines bread, milk, eggs, and sweet spices. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s forgiving, allowing you to add your favorite mix-ins, whether that’s raisins, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries. Plus, it’s a brilliant way to use up leftover bread that might otherwise go to waste!

Ingredients Overview for Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

To create this delightful dessert, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that you can find in any home kitchen. Here’s what you will need:

6 cups stale bread, cut into cubes: This is your base! Any bread will do, but a mix of white and whole grain gives great texture.
2 cups milk (or dairy-free alternative): Feel free to use almond, oat, or soy milk if you’re going dairy-free.
4 large eggs: Eggs are essential for binding everything together and creating that fluffy custard.
1 cup granulated sugar: A sweet touch that beautifully enhances the flavors.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: This adds warmth and depth.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon gives it that cozy vibe we all love.
1 cup raisins (or chocolate chips/dried cranberries): Totally up to you! My favorite is raisins, but chocolate chips are a fun twist, too.
2 tablespoons butter, melted: This adds richness and helps get that golden top.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get that oven nice and toasty.
Place bread cubes in a large mixing bowl and let them sit out overnight to dry. This step is key for preventing mushiness!
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Make sure everything is well combined and frothy!
Pour the milk mixture over the bread, stirring to soak all the pieces. You want each cube to soak up that delicious custard.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure it’s well-coated so that your pudding doesn’t stick!
Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and set. You’ll know it’s done when it has a lovely golden color on top.
Allow to cool and serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with cream or ice cream. It’s delicious either way!

Serving Suggestions

Serving this bread pudding is as much fun as making it! I love to serve it warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some toasted nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar on top. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy evening treat.

Tips For The Perfect Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding

Use stale bread: Fresh bread won’t absorb the liquid as well. Letting it dry out overnight is a game changer.
Mix it up: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different add-ins like nuts or spices.
Check for doneness: The pudding should be firm but slightly jiggly in the center when it’s done.
Serving suggestions: Try pairing with a thick vanilla sauce for a creamy addition.

Q&A Section

Can I substitute the bread?
Absolutely! Any bread will work, but a firmer bread like challah or brioche will give you a luscious texture.

How do I store leftovers?
Cover your baked pudding with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to four days.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, you can freeze the bread pudding! Just thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving.

What if I don’t like raisins?
No problem! Swap them out for chocolate chips, diced apples, or even chopped nuts.

Why You’ll Love It

You’ll fall in love with Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding for its comforting flavors and easy preparation. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a hug in a dish! Every bite tells a story, reminding you of those cherished family moments gathered around the table. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that helps clean out your pantry?

Behind The Scenes

When I made Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding for the first time, I was a bit nervous. Would it taste as good as I remembered? Honestly, I had a mini meltdown when my bread was too fresh, and the pudding turned out soggy. But with practice, I learned the importance of letting the bread dry out properly. Now, I can whip up this sweet goodness with confidence, and I can’t help but feel that warm connection to my childhood every time I make it.

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