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Exploring the rich tapestry of childhood memories often leads us to the comforting embrace of beloved family recipes. One such dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia is Grandma's Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce. This classic dessert is not just a delightful treat, but it also serves as a wonderful way to repurpose stale bread into a luxurious dish that can elevate any meal, whether it's a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday celebration.

Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce

Rediscover the warmth of childhood with Grandma's Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce, a cherished family recipe that transforms stale bread into a decadent dessert. This timeless dish, rooted in tradition, combines rich custard and aromatic spices for an unforgettable experience. Follow our step-by-step instructions to recreate this comforting favorite in your kitchen. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy evening, this bread pudding is sure to evoke fond memories and bring loved ones together.
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Ingredients
  

6 cups stale bread (French bread or challah works beautifully), cut into cubes

4 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ cup raisins (optional)

¼ cup butter, melted

Bourbon Sauce:

½ cup unsalted butter

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup bourbon

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

    Prepare the bread: In a large bowl, combine the cubed stale bread with melted butter, tossing to coat evenly. Spread the bread across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle the raisins evenly over the top.

      Mix custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined.

        Combine mixtures: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring that the bread is completely soaked. Press down gently with a spatula to make sure all the bread absorbs the liquid.

          Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

            While the pudding is baking, prepare the bourbon sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar until it is dissolved, then whisk in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Allow to cool slightly.

              Serve: Once the bread pudding is done baking, let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm, drizzled with the bourbon sauce.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes | 8 servings