Christmas is a time for warm gatherings, festive cheer, and delicious treats that embody the spirit of the season. One of the cozy highlights of holiday tables is undoubtedly the enchanting Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding. This dish combines the tartness of cranberries with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, cream, and sugar. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it an ideal dessert for holiday celebrations.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
Why Make This Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding
This Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly winter evening. The combination of fresh cranberries adds a tart burst of flavor that perfectly contrasts the sweet custard base. It’s a wonderful way to use up stale bread, minimizing waste while maximizing taste. Plus, it fills your home with the inviting aromas of cinnamon and vanilla as it bakes, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or lazy weekend brunches with loved ones.
How to Make Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of stale bread, cubed
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 3/4 cup of sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 2 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
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Step 3: Combining
Add the cubed stale bread and cranberries to the mixture. Gently stir until everything is well combined.
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Step 4: Soaking
Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes, so the bread can absorb the liquid and flavors.
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Step 5: Baking
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts on top. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set in the center.
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Step 6: Cooling
Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. This makes it easier to cut and enhances the flavors.
How to Serve Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding
Serve this delightful bread pudding warm, perhaps dusted with powdered sugar or topped with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. It pairs wonderfully with warm vanilla sauce, caramel sauce, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a festive dessert.
How to Store Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding
To store leftover bread pudding, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding
- Choose a sturdy bread like brioche or challah for the best texture.
- Feel free to use day-old bread, as it better absorbs the custard mixture.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard.
- Make sure to soak the bread long enough to ensure it becomes tender and flavorful.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Delight: Add a handful of chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
- Spiced Orange: Include orange zest for a fresh, zesty flavor throughout.
- Nutty Crunch: Substitute additional nuts for the pecans or walnuts for a variation with almonds or hazelnuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
While stale bread works best for absorption, you can use fresh bread if you dry it out slightly in the oven first. Cut the bread and bake it at low heat for a few minutes until it feels dry.
Can I make this recipe a day in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the pudding the day before and refrigerate it. Bake it just before you plan to serve it for the best results.
Is it possible to use other fruits?
Yes, you can substitute cranberries with fruits like blueberries, chopped apples, or pears, adjusting the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free bread to adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets without compromising flavor.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Replace the milk and cream with almond milk or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter substitute for greasing the pan.
Conclusion
This Christmas Cranberry Bread Pudding is a quintessential comfort food that brings warmth to your holiday festivities. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly delicious, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you serve it alongside a festive meal or enjoy it as a cozy dessert on a quiet winter evening, this dish is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. Get ready to fill your kitchen with delightful aromas and create lasting memories this holiday season!
