Name: Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups cranberry orange bread, cut into 1.5 inch cubes (about a 9.5 inch loaf) or plain bread; 4 large eggs; 1 large egg yolk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/2 cups heavy cream; 2 1/2 cups whole milk; 1/4 cup bourbon (optional); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 orange (zest and juice); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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If you are on the lookout for a dessert that perfectly combines festive flavors with a comforting, cozy texture, then this Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding Recipe is going to be your new favorite. It marries the tart brightness of fresh cranberries and zesty orange with rich custard-soaked bread cubes, delivering a luscious balance between sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday brunch or a weeknight treat, this bread pudding feels like a warm hug from the inside out—plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make with just a handful of staple ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white square baking dish holds a crumbly, golden-brown dessert with bright red cranberries scattered throughout. The top layer is textured with bits of toasted pecans and visible orange zest sprinkles. In the center, there is a scoop of white ice cream swirled with dark red berry sauce, topped with a fresh orange slice resting on the ice cream. Some of the dessert is missing from the bottom right corner, showing its moist, mixed texture below the crumbly top. The dish is set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All you need for this cranberry orange bread pudding recipe are straightforward ingredients that each bring their own special magic. From the tender, fruity bread cubes to the creamy, custard base, every component builds layers of flavor and texture that make this dish irresistible.

Cranberry orange bread: Using bread with real cranberries and orange zest gives this pudding its signature fruity backbone and adds beautiful pops of color.
Eggs: Both whole eggs and an extra yolk provide richness and help create that silky custard texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens gently to balance the tart cranberries without overpowering.
Heavy cream and whole milk: These creamy ingredients form a luscious base that makes the pudding decadently moist.
Bourbon (optional): Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices and fruit.
Vanilla extract: Gives a smooth, inviting aroma and enhances the overall sweetness.
Cinnamon: Offers a gentle spice note that complements the tartness of cranberries and the zestiness of orange.
Orange zest and juice: Bring a fresh, citrus brightness that lifts the entire dessert.
Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
Fresh cranberries: For bursts of tangy fruitiness and a textured contrast.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Add crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the soft pudding.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prep the bread

Start by cutting your cranberry orange bread into 1.5-inch cubes. This size is ideal because it soaks up just the right amount of custard without falling apart, ensuring each bite is delightfully tender yet holds its form. Set these cubes aside as you prepare the custard mixture.

Step 2: Whisk the custard mixture

In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together your eggs, egg yolk, granulated sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, bourbon (if using), vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. This madly delicious mix is where all the warm, creamy, and citrusy goodness develops before mingling with the bread cubes.

Step 3: Toss the bread in custard

Next, pour the custard mixture over your bread cubes. Gently toss and fold to coat every piece evenly, allowing the bread to soak up all those flavors. Adding the fresh cranberries here lets their tartness infuse the pudding without making the bread soggy.

Step 4: Let it rest and preheat

Coat a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray, then transfer the bread and custard mixture into it, spreading evenly. Cover and let it rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This resting period lets the bread absorb that luscious custard deeply, which is key to a perfectly creamy pudding. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 325°F.

Step 5: Bake the pudding

Place the baking dish on the lower middle rack of your oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a warm golden brown, the edges start to puff up, and the center has a slight jiggle but is mostly set. This balance guarantees a pudding that’s creamy inside with a lightly crisp top.

Step 6: Cool and add finishing touches

Once out of the oven, allow the pudding to cool for 30 to 45 minutes before serving. This cooling step helps it set perfectly while still being warm and comforting. Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for crunch, and prepare to indulge in a dessert that feels both simple and sophisticated.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding Recipe

A white square baking dish filled with a layered baked dessert. The bottom layer is a crumbly bread-like texture with golden brown toasted edges. Scattered throughout the dish are whole and halved bright red cranberries adding pops of color. On top in the middle is a round scoop of white cream or ice cream with a swirl of red sauce. Next to the cream is a thin slice of orange adding a bright accent. The top layer has bits of nuts and orange zest sprinkled for texture and color. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with whole oranges and extra cranberries around it for decoration. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of toasted pecans will add an inviting look and texture. For an indulgent touch, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—the rich creaminess perfectly offsets the tangy cranberries and spiced custard.

Side Dishes

This bread pudding pairs beautifully with lightly sweetened spiced tea, rich coffee, or even a glass of bourbon to echo the optional splash in the recipe. For brunch, consider serving it alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausages to contrast sweet and savory flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a holiday party or special gathering, serve individual portions in ramekins, sprinkled with some extra zest and pecans for an elegant touch. You can also drizzle a warm caramel or orange glaze on top to elevate the experience and impress your guests with minimal effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cranberry orange bread pudding recipe keeps beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to lock in moisture and flavors.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this pudding freezes well. Cut into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and place in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm the whole dish in a 325°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes until heated through. To bring back some crispness, uncover during the last 5 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Can I use plain bread instead of cranberry orange bread?

Absolutely! While cranberry orange bread adds extra flavor and color, plain bread works fine—you can boost the citrus and spice notes with a little extra zest or cinnamon.

Is it necessary to use bourbon?

Bourbon is optional and adds depth and warmth to the pudding, but feel free to omit it if you prefer. The dish will still be deliciously flavorful without it.

Can this bread pudding be made dairy-free?

You can substitute the cream and milk with full-fat coconut milk or another plant-based milk, but the texture may be slightly less rich. Using a dairy-free butter substitute can keep the flavor balanced.

Can I prepare this recipe a day ahead?

Yes! You can assemble the bread pudding the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature before baking the next day for best results.

What’s the best way to get that custardy texture?

Ensure the bread cubes soak in the custard mixture well by letting them rest for at least 20 minutes before baking. Baking at a moderate temperature also helps the custard set without drying out the pudding.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding Recipe that hits all the right notes of flavor, comfort, and festive charm. It’s a dish that’s easy enough for a casual dinner yet elegant enough for holiday celebrations. Give it a try, and watch it become your go-to dessert for sharing warmth and joy with the people you love.