6 cups cubed day-old bread (French bread or brioche works great)
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 large eggs, beaten
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Warm Vanilla Glaze (as featured in image_9274c3.jpg)
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup whole milk
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread and Custard
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×11-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Place the 6 cups of cubed day-old bread into a large mixing bowl.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 4 beaten eggs, ¾ cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
Pour the melted butter over the bread cubes, then pour the liquid custard mixture over the top. Gently toss to combine, making sure all the bread is well coated. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes so the bread fully absorbs the rich custard.
2. Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer the soaked bread mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. The top should be golden brown and puffed, and a knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
3. Make the Vanilla Glaze
While the pudding bakes, combine the ½ cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of milk, and ¼ cup of sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk the 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a splash of cold milk to create a smooth slurry, then stir it into the saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking constantly for 2–3 minutes until it thickens into a silky, smooth sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
4. Assemble and Serve
Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Just before serving, recreate the mouthwatering look from image_9274c3.jpg by pouring the warm, velvety vanilla glaze directly into the crevices of the golden-brown crust. Serve additional sauce on the side for dipping!
