Delicious Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce in a Casserole Dish

Ingredients:

• 6 cups day-old bread, cubed (French bread or brioche works well)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare Bread: Place the cubed bread in the prepared casserole dish. If using, sprinkle raisins or dried cranberries evenly over the bread.
3. Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
4. Combine: Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, pressing down lightly to ensure the bread absorbs the custard. Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
5. Soak: Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

Vanilla Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Heat Cream and Milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Add Butter and Vanilla: Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving.

Serving

1. Slice and Serve: Cut the bread pudding into squares and serve warm. Drizzle the warm vanilla sauce over each serving.
2. Enjoy: Enjoy this comforting and indulgent dessert with family and friends!

This Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy weekend treat.