Name: Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cups Milk; 4 large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Cloves; 1/2 teaspoon Allspice; 1 cup Granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon Orange zest; 2 cups Fresh cranberries; 8 cups cups Loaf thick bread; 1/2 cup cups Butter, melted; 1 cup Powdered sugar; 1/2 cup Freshly squeezed orange juice

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There’s something incredibly heartwarming about making Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding during the cooler months. I vividly recall the first time I crafted this dish in my kitchen. The aroma of fresh cranberries mingling with the zest of oranges filled my home, instantly transporting me back to cozy family gatherings. As we gathered around the table, this delightful dessert became the star of the show, bringing smiles and warm memories with each bite. It’s one of those recipes that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart. The blend of flavors and textures creates a unique experience that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
8g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
11g g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

What Sets This Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding Apart

1. Comforting Flavor Combination

The beauty of Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding lies in its comforting combination of flavors. The tartness of the cranberries perfectly contrasts with the sweetness of the granulated sugar and butter, creating a balancing act that is sheer perfection. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of taste, making it the ultimate comfort food.

2. Perfect Use for Leftover Bread

Do you often find yourself with leftover thick bread? This recipe is a brilliant way to utilize that extra bread, which would otherwise go stale. The soaking process enriches the bread with flavors, transforming it into something extraordinary. Nothing goes to waste here!

3. Easy to Make

Despite its impressive appearance, Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is surprisingly easy to prepare. The straightforward instructions mean even novice cooks can whip this up without a hitch. It’s perfect for those who want to impress their guests with little effort.

4. Versatile for Any Occasion

This dish is not just for Thanksgiving; it’s versatile enough to serve at any gathering—be it a holiday feast, a brunch with friends, or even a cozy family dinner. The bright colors and festive flavors make it a joyful addition to any table.

5. Ideal for Sharing

Serving Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is an occasion in itself. It’s a dish that brings people together, inviting everyone to engage and share their experiences as they enjoy this heartwarming dessert. Breaking bread together creates bonds and cherishable moments.

6. A Showstopper Dessert

Finally, the presentation of this dish is nothing short of stunning. Drizzled with a sweet glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice, it looks as good as it tastes. You can be certain that your guests will be impressed!

Recipe Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making the perfect Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding. The combination of fresh and rich elements creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Each component plays a vital role, from the tartness of the fresh cranberries to the sweetness of the granulated sugar, and the zestiness of the orange zest. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

Milk: 2 cups of whole milk adds creaminess.
Eggs: 4 large eggs help bind the pudding together.
Vanilla extract: For flavor depth, although we are avoiding artificial versions.
Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for warmth and spice.
Cloves: A hint of this spice enhances the holiday vibe.
Allspice: Adds complexity to the flavor profile.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
Orange zest: Brings brightness and a fresh aroma.
Fresh cranberries: 2 cups provide bursts of tartness.
Loaf thick bread: About 8 cups, cubed, is the base of the dish.
Butter, melted: 1/2 cup adds richness.
Powdered sugar: For making the glaze.
Freshly squeezed orange juice: To complement the glaze with a citrusy touch.

Cooking Instructions for Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Making Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is a delightful experience, and I’m excited to guide you through it step by step. With just a few simple ingredients and some time, you’ll create a dish that fills your home with comforting aromas and your heart with joy.

First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing your baking dish is essential to ensure that your pudding doesn’t stick to the sides. I love using a 13×9 inch dish, as it provides ample space for the bread pudding to rise and spread comfortably.
Next, spread half of your cubed thick bread evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This forms the base layer, so make sure it’s well-distributed. Once it’s in place, sprinkle the fresh cranberries generously over the top. Their tartness will provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet bread pudding.
Now it’s time to add the remaining cubed bread on top of the cranberries. This layer is crucial as it will soak up the delicious custard mixture you’ll prepare next.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, granulated sugar, and orange zest. Make sure everything is well combined for a smooth custard base.
Pour this custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and cranberries. You want to ensure that all the pieces of bread are coated, so gently press down with a spatula to help the custard soak in.
Allow your bread pudding to sit for about 25 minutes. This resting period lets the bread absorb the custard, making every bite deliciously moist.
While your bread pudding is soaking, prepare to bake it. After the resting time, place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center jiggles only slightly when moved.
Once baked, let your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Yes, it might deflate a bit while cooling, but that’s perfectly normal!
While the pudding cools, mix together the melted butter, powdered sugar, orange juice, and any remaining orange zest to create a delightful glaze. If it seems too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach your desired thickness.
Finally, drizzle the glaze over each slice of your warm bread pudding before serving. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Things Worth Knowing

Know Your Bread: Using day-old or stale thick bread works best, as it absorbs the custard well without falling apart.
Temperature Check: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to avoid uneven baking.
Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg for an alternate twist.
Serving Temperature: This pudding is delicious warm, but also great at room temperature.

Variations to Try

While Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is fantastic as it is, there are so many ways to make it your own! Here are some fun variations to consider:

Change the Fruit: Substitute cranberries with blueberries or cherries for a new flavor.
Nutty Addition: Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture contrast.
Custard Boost: Add an extra egg or a splash of heavy cream to the custard for a richer pudding.
Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread if you’re catering to dietary restrictions.
Ice Cream Pairing: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding, the possibilities are endless. Here are some delightful ideas:

Breakfast Delight: Serve it warm as a sweet breakfast treat, drizzled with extra glaze.
Brunch Centerpiece: This dish is a perfect addition to a brunch table, complementing savory dishes beautifully.
Holiday Dessert: It makes for an impressive dessert during Thanksgiving or Christmas celebrations.
Pair with Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream takes this dessert to another level.
Leftover Treat: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Seasonal Serving: Try serving it with a hot cup of cider or a festive drink during the fall.

FAQ

Yes, you can certainly use frozen cranberries in your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding. They may release some moisture during baking, but the flavor will still be delightful and tart.

For the best results, use a loaf of thick bread like challah, brioche, or even sourdough. These varieties absorb the custard beautifully and give a great texture to the Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding. Avoid using very soft white bread, as it may become too mushy.

To store leftovers of your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to three days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it in the oven or microwave for a warm treat!

Absolutely! You can assemble the Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and keep it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for a warm, fresh dessert that will impress your guests.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is a delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Its combination of tart cranberries and sweet orange zest, along with the comforting texture of bread pudding, makes it a recipe worth trying. Don’t hesitate to give it a go; your friends and family will surely love it!