There’s something magical about the warm, comforting flavors of Cranberry Bread Pudding. With its golden, custard-soaked bread, bursts of tart cranberries, and a drizzle of orange-infused icing, this dessert is the perfect way to end any meal. Whether you’re gathering with family for the holidays or simply looking for a way to use up leftover bread, cranberry bread pudding is a nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

As you take your first bite, the rich custard and delicate spices come together with the brightness of orange zest and cranberries. It’s a dessert that feels both indulgent and homey—a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Bread Pudding

This dessert is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a warm hug on a cold day. Here’s why you’ll adore making (and eating) cranberry bread pudding:

• Perfect Use of Leftover Bread: It’s a fantastic way to give stale bread a second life.
• Bursting with Flavor: Tart cranberries, creamy custard, and a hint of orange zest make every bite exciting.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients.
• Great for Any Occasion: From holiday dinners to casual gatherings, this dessert fits every setting.
• Easy to Customize: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even swap the cranberries for raisins if you prefer.

Ingredients for Cranberry Bread Pudding

For the Bread Pudding

• 1 lb. loaf challah or brioche bread, cut into 1″ cubes (about 10 cups)
• 2 large eggs
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2/3 cup (145 g) packed dark brown sugar
• Zest of 1/2 navel orange
• 1 tsp. almond extract
• 1/2 tsp. ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 1/4 cups frozen cranberries

For the Icing

• 1 cup (115 g) confectioners’ sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Zest of 1/2 navel orange
• 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier or orange juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the most delicious cranberry bread pudding:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F.
2. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on two rimmed baking sheets.
3. Bake for about 20 minutes, turning the sheets halfway through, until the bread is dry.
4. Let the bread cool while you prepare the custard.

Step 2: Make the Custard

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, brown sugar, orange zest, almond extract, ground cloves, kosher salt, and nutmeg until smooth.
2. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and whole milk until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard

1. Add the cooled bread cubes to the bowl with the custard mixture.
2. Toss to coat all the bread pieces, then press down gently with a spoon to submerge them in the custard.
3. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes so the bread can absorb the custard.

Step 4: Add Cranberries and Bake

1. Stir the frozen cranberries into the bread mixture.
2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 13″x9″ baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top.

Step 5: Cool the Bread Pudding

1. Remove the dish from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack.
2. Let the pudding cool until it’s just slightly warm, about 40 minutes.

Step 6: Make the Icing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, melted butter, orange zest, and Grand Marnier (or orange juice) until smooth.

Step 7: Drizzle the Icing

1. Once the bread pudding has cooled slightly, drizzle the icing evenly over the top.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, sweet, and tart flavors of this cozy dessert.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	380 kcal
Protein	7 g
Total Fat	20 g
Saturated Fat	12 g
Carbohydrates	42 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	210 mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Bread Pudding

1. Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale challah or brioche works best because it absorbs the custard without getting mushy.
2. Dry the Bread: If your bread is fresh, don’t skip the step of drying it in the oven. It’s crucial for the texture of the pudding.
3. Customize the Add-Ins: Swap cranberries for raisins, dried cherries, or chocolate chips for a different twist.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the bread pudding up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day.
5. Don’t Overbake: Remove the pudding from the oven once it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the center—it will continue to firm up as it cools.
6. Alcohol-Free Option: If you don’t have Grand Marnier, simply use orange juice for the icing.

FAQs About Cranberry Bread Pudding

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! While challah and brioche are ideal because of their soft texture and slight sweetness, you can also use French bread, Italian bread, or even croissants.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk, almond milk, or any other plant-based milk. Use vegan butter for the icing.

3. Do I need to thaw the cranberries?

No, there’s no need to thaw frozen cranberries. They’ll cook perfectly as the pudding bakes.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Cover the bread pudding tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.

5. Can I freeze cranberry bread pudding?

Yes, you can freeze the bread pudding (before icing) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

6. Can I make the icing ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the icing and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and whisk it before drizzling over the bread pudding.

Conclusion: Try Cranberry Bread Pudding Today!

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to bring the warm, comforting flavors of Cranberry Bread Pudding to your kitchen. This dessert is an absolute joy to make and an even bigger joy to eat. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering or treating yourself to a cozy evening at home, this recipe will become a cherished favorite.

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