If you’re seeking a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall and winter, look no further than this Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding. It’s a delightful blend of tart cranberries and citrusy orange, baked into a comforting, warm pudding.
The heart of this dish is, of course, the bread. Using day-old bread is key as it absorbs the liquid better, making the pudding wonderfully moist without being soggy. Cranberries bring a pop of color and a tart counterbalance to the sweetness. Sugar helps to sweeten the pudding just enough. Whole milk adds richness and a creamy texture. Eggs provide structure and help set the pudding. Orange juice and orange zest infuse the dish with a bright, citrusy flavor, while vanilla extract enhances the sweetness. A touch of cinnamon adds warmth, and a pinch of salt sharpens the flavors. Lastly, a drizzle of melted butter ensures a golden, glossy finish.
This bread pudding is delightful on its own, but serving it with a dollop of orange-infused cream can elevate it to another level. If you're feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm pudding, melting slightly to create a luscious sauce.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish. This ensures your pudding won’t stick and cleans up easily. Next, take your day-old bread and cut it into cubes. Combine these cubes with cranberries in a large bowl, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, milk, eggs, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until it’s all well combined — you want the sugar to dissolve and the eggs to fully integrate with the liquids. Pour this mixture over the bread and cranberries, ensuring every piece of bread gets a good soak. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the flavors.
Once the bread has soaked up the liquid, transfer everything to your prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the top; it’ll help create that golden brown crust. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top and a set center. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving.
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