10 Old-Fashioned Desserts to Try from Grandma's Recipe Box

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Bread Pudding with Vanilla Bourbon Glaze

Originally a frugal way to use up stale bread, bread pudding has been enjoyed for centuries, evolving into a beloved dessert found in Southern kitchens, European cafés, and everywhere in between. The creamy interior and caramelized edges make it an irresistible old-fashioned favorite. Soaked in a sweet vanilla and cinnamon-spiced custard, then baked until golden and slightly crisp on top, this dessert is comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients (for 6-8 servings):

For the Pudding:

• 4 cups day-old bread, cubed (French bread or brioche works best)
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup raisins (optional)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp bourbon
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, sugars, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Add bread cubes and toss to coat. Let sit for 15 min. to absorb the custard. Stir in raisins (if using).
4. Transfer mixture to the baking dish and drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 40-45 min., or until golden brown and set in the center.
6. In a small saucepan over medium heat, begin making the glaze by melting the butter until fully liquid. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
7. Bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 2 min. until slightly thickened.
8. Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until fully incorporated.
9. Let cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with the bourbon glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar.