A comforting classic, this rich and custardy bread pudding is baked to golden perfection and served with a velvety vanilla sauce. Ideal for cozy weekends, family gatherings, or holiday desserts!

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Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding:

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French bread or brioche)

• 4 cups whole milk

• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Vanilla Sauce:

• 1 cup whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Make the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Stir in the melted butter.

3. Assemble the Bread Pudding

Place the cubed bread into the prepared baking dish in an even layer. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing the cubes gently to ensure they soak up the liquid. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to absorb.

4. Bake

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.

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Make the Vanilla Sauce

5. Cook the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer and thickens — about 5–7 minutes.

6. Finish the Sauce

Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.

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Serve

Spoon the warm vanilla sauce generously over slices of freshly baked bread pudding. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. Optional: top with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries.

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Tips:

• You can make the pudding a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat before serving and add warm sauce.

• Try adding raisins, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips for a twist!

Let me know if you want a printable or image card version!