Cranberry Bread Pudding

Name: Cranberry Bread Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups stale bread (cubed; sourdough or brioche); 2 cups fresh cranberries; 2 cups whole milk (or almond/oat milk); 4 large eggs; ¾ cup mixed brown and white sugar; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Published: December 9, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Cranberry Bread Pudding

This incredible Cranberry Bread Pudding transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cranberry Bread Pudding:

Stale Bread: Use about 6 cups of cubed bread; sourdough or brioche works wonderfully for texture and flavor.
Fresh Cranberries: About 2 cups; opt for bright red berries for tartness that balances the sweetness.
Milk: 2 cups of whole milk provides creaminess; feel free to substitute with almond or oat milk if desired.
Eggs: Four large eggs act as the binding agent, creating that luscious custard texture we all adore.
Sugar: A mix of brown and white sugar (about ¾ cup total) adds sweetness and depth.
Vanilla Extract: One tablespoon of pure vanilla enhances flavors and adds warmth to your pudding.
Cinnamon: Just a teaspoon brings cozy spice notes that complement the cranberries perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Cranberry Bread Pudding:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or butter so your pudding can slide out easily when it’s done.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

In a large bowl, combine the cubed stale bread with cranberries. Mix gently but thoroughly; we want those tangy little jewels distributed evenly throughout!

Step 3: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. Take a moment to appreciate how scrumptious it smells—this is the magic potion!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the egg mixture over the bread and cranberry mixture. Stir gently until all pieces are soaked evenly—like they’re having a blissful spa day in custard.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer everything into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until golden brown on top and set in the center.

Step 6: Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving—if you can resist! Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Now go on and impress everyone with your culinary prowess! The lovely combination of sweet and tart in this Cranberry Bread Pudding will sweep them off their feet faster than you can say “seconds!”

You Must Know About Cranberry Bread Pudding

This showstopping Cranberry Bread Pudding delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by cubing day-old bread and letting it dry out while preparing your custard mixture. Combine eggs, milk, sugar, and spices before folding in the cranberries. Pour over the bread cubes, let it soak, then bake until golden brown and deliciously fragrant.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap cranberries for cherries or raisins if you’re feeling adventurous. Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist. For extra indulgence, sprinkle some chocolate chips on top before baking for a sweet surprise.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. A little drizzle of cream or ice cream on top brings everything back to life!

Chef's Helpful Tips for Cranberry Bread Pudding

This professional-quality Cranberry Bread Pudding relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I remember the first time I made Cranberry Bread Pudding; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They kept sneaking bites straight from the pan—I almost didn’t get to serve it!

FAQs

What is Cranberry Bread Pudding?

Cranberry Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert made from cubes of bread soaked in a sweet, custard-like mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and spices. This dish often features fresh or dried cranberries, which add a tart flavor that beautifully balances the sweetness of the pudding. It’s a popular choice for holiday gatherings and family dinners, providing a comforting and nostalgic experience. The combination of textures—from the soft custard to the chewy bread—makes this treat irresistible.

How do I make Cranberry Bread Pudding?

To make Cranberry Bread Pudding, start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking dish. Cube your bread, then mix it with cranberries in the dish. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and spices. Pour this mixture over the bread and cranberries, allowing it to soak for at least 30 minutes. Bake until golden brown and set. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent finish.

Can I use other fruits in Cranberry Bread Pudding?

Yes! While cranberries are the star ingredient in this recipe, you can easily substitute or add other fruits like apples, raisins, or blueberries for different flavors and textures. Just ensure that the fruits complement each other to maintain balance in taste. For example, adding chopped apples can bring extra sweetness along with a juicy crunch.

How should I store leftover Cranberry Bread Pudding?

Storing leftover Cranberry Bread Pudding is easy! Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing portions for future enjoyment. To reheat, bake it gently in the oven until warmed through or microwave individual servings until hot.

Conclusion

Cranberry Bread Pudding is a wonderful dessert that combines comfort and flavor into one delicious dish. By using simple ingredients like bread and cranberries, you can create a memorable treat perfect for any occasion. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed as is, this pudding will surely delight your guests and loved ones alike. So gather your ingredients and indulge in the delightful experience of making Cranberry Bread Pudding today!

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