Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

A comforting twist on classic bread pudding, this Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce brings together a tender, custardy inside and a golden, slightly crisp top. The vanilla sauce adds just the right touch of sweetness, making it ideal whether I serve it for breakfast or a cozy dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how easy it is to transform simple ingredients—day‑old bread, milk, cream, eggs, and sugar—into something rich and elegant. The overnight soak means the custard fully infuses the bread, so every bite is creamy and satisfying. The water bath creates that silky texture, while finishing in the oven gives the perfect golden top. Finally, that homemade vanilla sauce takes it to the next level!

ingredients

(H ere’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 16 oz loaf of French bread (about 454 g), cubed and dried

• Custard Mixture:

  • 3 ¾ cups whole milk

  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream

  • 7 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 ¼ cups sugar

  • Optional: zest of ½ an orange

directions

1. Prepare the Bread:
   Cube the bread into 1½‑inch pieces. I make sure it’s dry by toasting it lightly or letting it sit out for a couple of days.

2. Make Custard Mixture:
   Whisk milk, cream, eggs, vanilla, sugar (and zest if using) together until fully combined.

3. Soak the Bread:
   Place bread cubes in a 2‑quart baking dish, pour custard over and gently toss until coated. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 2 hours so the bread can absorb the custard.

4. Bake in Water Bath:
   Preheat oven to 350 °F. Cover the dish tightly with foil and set inside a larger pan. Add water up at least halfway up the baking dish. This ensures a smooth custard without curdling.

5. Bake Covered:
   Bake for 1 ½ hours covered, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Brown the Top:
   Remove foil and bake until the top is golden and slightly crisp—watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.

7. Serve:
   Spoon slices onto plates, drizzle with warm vanilla sauce, and top with fresh berries or a swirl of caramel sauce.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Makes about 12 generous portions

• Prep time: 10 minutes for assembly (plus overnight soak)

• Bake time: ~1 ½ hours covered, then an additional ~15 minutes to brown

• Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes active, plus chilling time (overnight or at least 2 hours)

storage/reheating

I let leftovers cool to room temperature then store them covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I place a slice on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 325 °F for about 10 minutes until heated through. The vanilla sauce can be gently reheated on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Variations

• Fruit‑studded: Stir in 1 cup of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apples with the bread before soaking.

• Chocolate crunch: Swirl ½ cup mini chocolate chips into the mixture.

• Spiced twist: Add 1 tsp cinnamon or ¼ tsp nutmeg into the custard for extra warmth.

• Citrus surprise: Swap orange zest for lemon or lime for a fresh zing.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! Sturdy breads like brioche, challah, or sourdough work wonderfully. I avoid soft sandwich breads, which don’t hold up to the custard soak.

2. What if I don’t have time to refrigerate overnight?

It’s okay to soak for a minimum of 2 hours, but overnight gives a richer, more uniform custard texture. Less time may mean slightly drier or unevenly soaked pieces.

3. Why use a water bath?

The water bath provides gentle, even heat, preventing the custard from curdling or cracking, and contributing to a creamy, smooth texture throughout.

4. How do I know when it’s done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done. The top should look set and be pulled slightly from the edges of the dish.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, I wrap individual slices tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as described above.

Conclusion

With minimal effort and simple components, this Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce delivers a luxurious texture and classic flavor. I love serving it to friends and family—it feels indulgent without being fussy. The possibilities for customization mean it never feels repetitive. Give it a try, and enjoy each custardy bite with your favorite toppings!