Imagine the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the sweet scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, filling up your cozy kitchen. Experience the joy of indulging in a warm, velvety slice of bread pudding, topped with a generous drizzle of luscious vanilla sauce. This is not just any ordinary dessert—it’s a culinary masterpiece that will take you back to moments of comfort and indulgence. Hold on tight to this treasured recipe, my friend, because once you taste this delectable bread pudding in casserole with vanilla sauce, you’ll never want to let it go.

It was a chilly winter evening, with snow gently dusting the ground outside. The kitchen was filled with the warming scent of spices, as my grandmother—both a culinary genius and a kind-hearted soul—stood there, creating her signature bread pudding. As she shared her secret recipe with me, a passion for making delicious, soul-warming desserts was ignited within me. Now, I pass on this recipe to you, dear reader, with the hope that it will become a timeless favorite in your household, just as it has been in mine.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups of day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/3 cup raisins (optional)

For the Vanilla Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well blended.
  3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture and gently stir until they are all coated. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the custard.
  4. If using raisins, fold them into the bread mixture.
  5. Pour the melted butter evenly over the mixture and gently toss to distribute it.
  6. Transfer the bread pudding mixture to the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
  8. While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, butter, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Be careful not to let it boil. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  9. Once the bread pudding is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm, drizzled with the heavenly vanilla sauce.

Each mouthful of this bread pudding in casserole with vanilla sauce will transport you to a place of pure bliss. The combination of soft, custardy bread, warm spices, and the heavenly touch of the vanilla sauce is a symphony for your taste buds. Save this recipe, not just for its incredible taste, but also for the memories it will create—moments shared with loved ones, tales told, and hearts warmed. Indulge in this delightful treat, and let the flavors dance on your palate, bringing comfort and joy to your soul.

Bonus Recipe: Pepperoni Garlic Bread

Are you looking for a delightful and comforting dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more? Look no further! Our Pepperoni Garlic Bread is the perfect choice, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving something delicious. This versatile treat can be enjoyed on its own or paired with soups and salads, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast.

Ingredients you’ll need:

  • 1 large baguette or Italian bread loaf
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced pepperoni
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started on creating this mouth-watering treat!

Easy Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the bread loaf in half lengthwise, creating two pieces.
  3. In a bowl, mix the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
  4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on the cut sides of the bread.
  5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the butter layer.
  6. Next, arrange the thinly sliced pepperoni on top of the cheese.
  7. Cover the pepperoni with the shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring even coverage.
  8. Sprinkle the dried oregano and dried basil on top, adding extra flavor.
  9. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Now that your Pepperoni Garlic Bread is assembled, it’s time to pop it into the oven!

  1. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Once the bread is golden and the cheese is gooey, remove it from the oven.
  3. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing.
  4. Serve warm and watch as everyone’s mouths water with anticipation.

This Pepperoni Garlic Bread is the ultimate combination of flavors and textures. With the gooey melted cheese, the savory pepperoni, and the fragrant garlic butter, each bite will take your taste buds on a delightful journey. Trust us, it’s impossible to resist!

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a mouth-watering delight. Enjoy!