This delightful Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding is a fragrant and comforting dessert that brings festive cheer to any holiday gathering. With the tartness of cranberries paired with the sweetness of rich custard-soaked bread, this dish creates a warm and inviting experience. Perfectly suited for holiday brunches or as a cozy dessert after dinner, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite for years to come!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 60-65 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 360
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 250mg
Why Make This Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding
Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate that captures the essence of the holiday season. The combination of creamy custard, soft bread, and vibrant cranberries offer a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The comforting aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes will make your home feel festive! Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up leftover bread and it can be made ahead of time, making your holiday preparations less stressful.
How to Make Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding
Ingredients:
- 4 cups bread, cubed
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter to ensure the pudding doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Soaking
Add the cubed bread and cranberries to the mixture, folding gently until the bread is fully soaked with the custard. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb flavors.
Step 4: Baking
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set in the center and golden brown on top.
Step 5: Cooling
Allow the bread pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving. This lets it set a bit more, making it easier to slice and serve.
How to Serve Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding
This delicious bread pudding can be served warm or at room temperature. For a festive touch, consider dusting it with powdered sugar, or serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce also enhances the flavor, creating a wonderful contrast to the tart cranberries.
How to Store Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding
To store leftover bread pudding, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding
- Bread Choices: Use day-old bread for the best texture. Brioche or challah works wonderfully, but classic white or whole grain bread can work too.
- Cranberries: If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them—simply toss them in as they are.
- Oven Safety: Keep an eye on the pudding while it’s baking; cooking times can vary based on your oven.
- Serving: For a more decadent treat, add a splash of whiskey or rum to the custard mixture for an adult twist!
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the sugar to taste.
Delicious Variations
- Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and depth of flavor.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with flavors by adding nutmeg or ginger to the custard for a spicier kick.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: For chocolate lovers, mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the cranberries.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge overnight. Bake it the next day for a fresh treat.
2. What type of bread is best for bread pudding?
Day-old bread works best, so feel free to use brioche, challah, or even French bread for added flavor and texture.
3. How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
The pudding is done when the top is golden and the center is set. You can test doneness by inserting a knife; it should come out clean.
4. Can I substitute the cranberries?
Yes, you can use raisins or chopped apples if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change slightly.
5. How do I reheat leftover bread pudding?
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Conclusion
Give this Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding a try and share it with family and friends this holiday season. With its rich flavors and cozy texture, it perfectly embodies the spirit of Christmas. The blend of sweetness and tartness, along with the warm custardy center, will surely be a hit at your festive gatherings. Enjoy creating delicious memories as you prepare and serve this delightful dessert!
