Classic Southern Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce

Indulge in the rich flavors of Classic Southern Bread Pudding with a luscious caramel sauce. This old-fashioned dessert is made with day-old bread soaked in a creamy custard mixture, flavored with vanilla and warm spices. Baked until golden and slightly crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and moist on the inside, this bread pudding is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Drizzle with a homemade caramel sauce for a decadent finish that will leave you craving more. Get ready to experience the ultimate harmony of flavors in each delightful bite.

Ingredients

• Bread slices (day-old preferred)
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Eggs
• Butter
• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Tear the bread slices into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream over medium-low heat until it starts to steam. Do not let it boil.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and eggs. Whisk until well blended.
5. Slowly pour the hot milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
6. Pour the custard mixture over the torn bread slices. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure all the bread is soaked.
7. Allow the mixture to sit for 15 minutes, or until the bread absorbs the custard.
8. Transfer the bread pudding mixture into the greased baking dish and dot the top with small pieces of butter.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
10. While the bread pudding bakes, prepare the caramel sauce by heating it over low heat or following the instructions on the store-bought version.
11. Once the bread pudding is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
12. Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled generously with caramel sauce.
13. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this indulgent Southern Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce!

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