**Introduction**
Bread pudding is a classic dessert that originated as a way to use up leftover bread. Over centuries, it evolved into a rich, delicious comfort food enjoyed worldwide. This dessert is a warm, custardy treat, often infused with spices, raisins, and topped with a luscious vanilla sauce. Perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings, bread pudding brings together simplicity and decadence in one dish.
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## **Ingredients**
### For the Bread Pudding:
– **4 cups** of day-old bread, cubed (French bread or brioche works well)
– **2 cups** of milk (whole milk preferred)
– **½ cup** of heavy cream
– **3 large eggs**
– **½ cup** of granulated sugar
– **1 teaspoon** of vanilla extract
– **½ teaspoon** of cinnamon
– **¼ teaspoon** of nutmeg
– **½ cup** of raisins (optional)
– Butter for greasing the pan
### For the Vanilla Sauce:
– **1 cup** of milk
– **½ cup** of heavy cream
– **3 tablespoons** of sugar
– **1 teaspoon** of vanilla extract
– **1 tablespoon** of cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry)
– Pinch of salt
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## **Instructions**
### **Step-by-Step Method: Bread Pudding**
1. **Prepare the Bread:** Cube the day-old bread into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a greased 9×9 baking dish.
2. **Make the Custard:** In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. **Add Raisins (Optional):** Sprinkle raisins over the bread cubes.
4. **Combine:** Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb.
5. **Bake:** Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
6. **Cool:** Let the bread pudding cool slightly on a wire rack.
### **Step-by-Step Method: Vanilla Sauce**
1. **Heat the Base:** In a small saucepan, heat milk, cream, sugar, and salt over medium heat until simmering.
2. **Thicken:** Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook, whisking constantly, until thickened (about 2–3 minutes).
3. **Finish:** Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. **Serve:** Drizzle the warm vanilla sauce over the bread pudding before serving.
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## **History**
Bread pudding dates back to medieval times when people sought ways to avoid wasting food. Leftover bread was soaked in milk and eggs, then baked, creating a custardy dish. Over time, various cultures added their own spin, incorporating local spices, fruits, and sauces. In England, it became a staple dessert, while in the U.S., it evolved into a Southern favorite. Today, bread pudding is cherished globally as a symbol of resourcefulness and culinary tradition.
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## **Benefits**
1. **Sustainable Cooking:** Bread pudding uses leftover bread, reducing food waste.
2. **Nutritional Value:** Provides energy from carbs, protein from eggs and milk, and essential vitamins.
3. **Comfort Food:** Its warm, rich flavor is known to uplift moods.
4. **Customizable:** Easily adapted with fruits, nuts, or sauces to suit personal preferences.
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## **Formation**
The formation of bread pudding combines simple ingredients bound together by a custard mixture. The process involves soaking bread cubes to absorb the liquid, then baking to create a soft interior and slightly crisp top. The vanilla sauce complements this texture, adding smoothness and sweetness.
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## **Nutrition (Per Serving)**
– **Calories:** 300
– **Protein:** 7g
– **Fat:** 12g
– **Carbohydrates:** 38g
– **Fiber:** 1g
– **Sugar:** 20g
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## **Conclusion**
Bread pudding with vanilla sauce is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of simplicity and tradition. Its warming flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite among all ages. Whether served at family dinners or festive occasions, this dish always brings smiles.
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## **Lovers of Bread Pudding**
Bread pudding lovers often appreciate its nostalgic qualities. It is adored by fans of classic desserts, home cooks, and anyone who enjoys rich, custardy treats. Many find joy in experimenting with flavors, turning a humble dish into a gourmet experience.
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Enjoy making and sharing this delightful bread pudding with loved ones—it’s a recipe that brings warmth to hearts and homes!
