Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce holds within its warm embrace not just the essence of a cherished recipe but also a journey through time, a narrative woven with threads of nostalgia and tradition. As I delve into the annals of memory, I find myself transported to a kitchen suffused with the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, where my grandmother, with her weathered hands and gentle smile, would orchestrate culinary magic.

Picture a rustic farmhouse kitchen, where the clinking of utensils and the rhythmic swish of a wooden spoon against a mixing bowl created a symphony of domesticity. It is here that Grandma would meticulously tear day-old bread into uneven chunks, imbuing each piece with the promise of comfort and sustenance. The bread, once destined for discard, found new purpose under her skilled hands, transforming into the cornerstone of a dessert revered for generations.

In Grandma’s kitchen, every ingredient had a story to tell. The eggs, collected fresh from the coop each morning, whispered secrets of the hens’ antics in the yard. The milk, creamy and rich, bore witness to the toil of the dairy cows grazing lazily in the fields beyond. And the vanilla beans, plump and aromatic, carried the essence of distant lands where they had once danced in tropical breezes.

As the bread pudding took shape, so too did the anticipation in the air. The scent of spices mingled with the promise of sweetness, drawing family members from every corner of the homestead to gather ’round the hearth. For in Grandma’s kitchen, food was not merely sustenance; it was a language of love, spoken fluently with every whisk of a batter and every sprinkle of sugar.

But perhaps the true pièce de résistance of Grandma’s bread pudding was not the pudding itself, but the velvety blanket of vanilla sauce that enveloped it. Made with care and patience, this sauce was a testament to the transformative power of simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients – butter, sugar, cream, and the fragrant essence of vanilla – Grandma could elevate even the humblest of desserts to celestial heights.

As I recreate Grandma’s recipe in my own kitchen, I am reminded not only of the flavors that tantalized my taste buds but also of the lessons imparted by her hands. For in each bite of bread pudding lies a lesson in resourcefulness, in the art of making do with what one has and transforming it into something extraordinary. And in each dollop of vanilla sauce, there lingers a whisper of love – a reminder that some recipes are more than mere instructions; they are heirlooms, passed down through generations as a testament to the enduring power of family and tradition.

Here is some Important tips:
Gut Health:
Plant-based diets are often associated with improved gut health due to the high fiber content from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A healthy gut microbiome is linked to better digestion and overall well-being.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Many plant-based foods have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in reducing inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is associated with various health issues, and a vegan diet may contribute to its prevention.

Sports Performance:
Contrary to the misconception that vegan diets lack protein, many successful athletes follow plant-based diets to enhance their performance. Plant-based proteins can support muscle building and recovery.

Reduced Risk of Foodborne Illnesses:
Plant-based diets eliminate the risk of foodborne illnesses associated with the consumption of undercooked or contaminated animal products.

Economic Impact:
A vegan diet can be more economical as plant-based protein sources tend to be cost-effective compared to some animal products. It may be a budget-friendly option for individuals or families.

Mindful Eating:
Adopting a vegan lifestyle often promotes mindful eating. Being more conscious of food choices and sources can lead to a healthier relationship with food and a greater appreciation for the environmental impact of dietary decisions.

Preservation of Biodiversity:
The expansion of animal agriculture often leads to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. Choosing a vegan diet supports the preservation of ecosystems and the protection of various species.

Culinary Diversity:
Veganism introduces individuals to a diverse range of cuisines and ingredients from around the world. Exploring plant-based cooking can be a culinary adventure, embracing flavors and techniques from different cultures.

Reduced Antibiotic Resistance:
The use of antibiotics in animal farming contributes to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Opting for a vegan diet can be a way to reduce the demand for such practices and promote responsible antibiotic use.

Cruelty-Free Beauty and Personal Care:
Veganism extends to beauty and personal care products. Choosing cruelty-free, vegan alternatives ensures that your lifestyle aligns with ethical choices beyond just dietary preferences.

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Ingredients:
Pudding:
4 cups white bread, cubed, about 8 slices (use vegan bread)
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
2 cups non-dairy milk (such as almond, soy, coconut, or oat milk)
1/4 cup vegan butter substitute (such as Earth Balance or Miyoko’s)
1/2 cup sugar
2 flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 6 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Sauce:
1/2 cup vegan butter substitute (such as Earth Balance or Miyoko’s)
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (from a can)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with oil or non-stick cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread and raisins (if using).
In a small saucepan, heat the non-dairy milk and vegan butter substitute over medium heat until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flax eggs, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
Gradually pour the non-dairy milk mixture into the sugar mixture, whisking constantly to combine.
Pour the wet mixture over the bread cubes and raisins, and gently toss until all the bread cubes are coated.
Transfer the bread mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the bread pudding is set and golden brown on top.
While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the vegan butter substitute, sugar, brown sugar, and coconut milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
When the bread pudding is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with the warm vanilla sauce.
This vegan version of Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce captures the essence of the original recipe while being entirely plant-based. It’s a comforting and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!