Name: Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding: The Best Indulgent Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 5 cups buttery croissants, cut into 1" cubes; 1.75 cups heavy whipping cream; 4 large eggs; 1.25 cups organic granulated sugar; 1 large orange, zest; 1.5 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract; 1.25 cups fresh cranberries (larger cranberries should be cut in half); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 0.5 large orange, zest; 1.5 Tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract

Introduction to Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

When it comes to delightful desserts, Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding stands out as a comforting choice, especially during the cooler months. But why should you choose this sweet treat? First, this recipe marries the zesty brightness of orange with the tartness of fresh cranberries, creating a flavor profile that dances on your tongue. It's a unique twist on the classic bread pudding that transforms leftover bread into something truly magical.

Additionally, this dish is incredibly versatile. Perfect for holiday gatherings, weekend brunches, or simply as a cozy night in, it caters to different occasions and audiences. It's a wonderful way to impress friends or family with minimal hassle—just whip it up, bake it, and serve with a drizzle of homemade vanilla cream sauce.

Plus, bread pudding is a great way to use up those day-old croissants lying around, turning them into a luscious dessert instead of letting them go to waste.

Ready to explore this mouthwatering recipe? You’ll appreciate how easy and satisfying it is to make your own Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding from scratch or check out additional tips and tricks from sources like Food Network for any variations you might want to try!

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert to impress friends or simply indulge yourself, this Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is a delightful choice. Let’s dive into the key ingredients that bring this dish to life!

Bread Pudding Essentials

5 cups buttery croissants: The foundation of our bread pudding. Their soft, flaky texture absorbs the custard beautifully.
1¾ cups heavy whipping cream: This adds richness, helping create that creamy custard consistency.
4 eggs: Vital for binding everything together while providing a delicate structure.
1¼ cups organic granulated sugar: Sweetness is essential, and organic adds a wholesome touch.
Zest of one large orange: This brightens the flavor profile, infusing the pudding with a refreshing citrus note.
1½ teaspoons vanilla paste or extract: Adds warmth and depth to the overall taste.
1¼ cups fresh cranberries: These little tangy gems provide a burst of flavor and color.

Cream Sauce Ingredients

For the finishing touch, don’t forget the vanilla cream sauce! You’ll need:

1 cup heavy whipping cream
Zest of half a large orange
1½ Tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract

When you combine these ingredients, you’re not just making a dessert; you’re crafting a memory. Perfect for gatherings or a simple night in, this Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. Now, who’s ready to start baking?

For a deeper dive into the health benefits of cranberries or ideas on how to use leftover bread, check out resources like Healthline and Cooking Light.

Preparing Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Preheat the oven and prepare your baking dish

To kick off your journey toward the delightful Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as a properly heated oven will ensure even baking. While the oven warms up, take the time to butter the bottom and sides of your chosen baking dish—either four individual ramekins or a single 11x7x2 glass baking dish. Greasing the dish will prevent the bread pudding from sticking and make serving a breeze!

Whisk together the liquid ingredients

In a spacious mixing bowl, grab your whisk and combine 1¾ cups of heavy whipping cream, four eggs, 1¼ cups of organic granulated sugar, the zest from a large orange, and 1½ teaspoons of vanilla paste or extract. Make sure to whisk until the mixture is well blended—this ensures that the flavors meld perfectly. The heavy cream adds richness, while the eggs will help bind the pudding, creating a texture that's both creamy and satisfying. For detailed tips about the benefits of using fresh ingredients, check out sources like Serious Eats.

Add in croissants and cranberries

Now it’s time for the star ingredients! Gently fold in 5 cups of buttery croissant cubes and 1¼ cups of fresh cranberries. The croissants will absorb the creamy mixture, while the cranberries introduce a tart contrast that elevates the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, consider adding a tablespoon or two of maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Allow the mixture to rest

Give your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding mixture about 10-15 minutes to rest. During this period, the croissants will soak up all that delicious liquid, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. This step is essential, as it guarantees that the entire pudding is moist and flavorful, not just the edges!

Bake to perfection

After the mixture has had time to rest, divide it evenly between your ramekins or pour it all into the prepared baking dish. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes if you’re using ramekins, or 30-35 minutes for a single batch in the larger dish. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and a beautiful golden hue graces the top. Let the pudding cool for five minutes after removing it from the oven—it’s challenging to resist, but this little wait will help the dessert settle and improve the texture.

Prepare the vanilla cream sauce

While your pudding is cooling, you can whip up a luscious vanilla cream sauce. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, the zest of half a large orange, 1½ tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla paste or extract. Heat over low until it begins to simmer, then remove it from the heat. Drizzle this delightful sauce over your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding just before serving, and watch how it transforms each forkful into a decadently sweet experience!

This recipe doesn’t just make for an impressive dessert; it’s also a warm embrace on a chilly evening. You may find yourself making this again and again to impress friends or satisfy those cozy cravings!

Variations on Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Chocolate Chip and Orange Zest Twist

Looking to add a little extra to your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding? Try incorporating semi-sweet chocolate chips alongside the cranberries. The rich chocolate melds beautifully with the bright orange zest, creating a dessert that's both decadent and refreshing. Just fold in a cup of chocolate chips with the cranberries, and watch your guests enjoy this delightful twist!

Nutty Cranberry Bread Pudding

For those who appreciate a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts to your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding. Walnuts or pecans enhance the texture and flavor. Simply add about a cup of your favorite nuts during the mixing stage. Not only do they provide a satisfying bite, but they also introduce a lovely earthy richness to the dish.

Feel free to experiment with these variations, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

When preparing your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding, remember that the type of bread you use can significantly alter the texture and flavor. Buttery croissants are ideal for a rich, decadent pudding—just make sure they're a day or two old for the perfect absorbency.

Letting the mixture sit is crucial; it allows the croissants to soak up the creamy goodness fully. For a delightful twist, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. If you're in need of a dairy-free alternative, oat milk works well too. Don't skip the vanilla cream sauce—its sweetness beautifully complements the tart cranberries.

For more insights, check out this guide on baking techniques!

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

When it comes to enjoying Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding, the serving possibilities are delightfully varied! Here are a few suggestions that can elevate your dessert experience:

Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add a creamy contrast to the warm, spiced bread pudding. Consider serving it with a scoop of orange-infused gelato for a refreshing twist.
Fruit Compote: Drizzle a homemade or store-bought berry compote over your pudding for an added layer of flavor and texture. A mix of berries can introduce an exciting burst of sweetness!
Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top can bring both crunch and richness, enhancing the dish's overall taste.
Coffee or Tea: Pair your dessert with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea to balance the sweetness and create a comforting ambiance.

By trying these serving ideas, you can create a delightful experience that makes your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding unforgettable! Wouldn't you love to impress your friends and family with these simple touches? For more ideas, check out resources like Bon Appétit or Food Network!

Time breakdown for Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Preparation time

You’ll need about 20 minutes to whip up the ingredients for your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding. This includes chopping croissants and mixing everything together—easy peasy!

Baking time

The baking magic happens over 25 to 35 minutes. If you're using individual ramekins, keep an eye on them after 25 minutes. If you opt for a larger dish, it may take a bit longer to ensure it's perfectly set.

Total time

In total, you're looking at about 50 to 55 minutes from start to finish. That’s a small investment for such a delicious treat! Perfect for breakfast or dessert.

If you're curious about more ideas for delicious bread puddings, check out this article on different types of bread pudding. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Calories

A serving of Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding contains approximately 350 calories. This delightful dish offers a comforting sweetness that's perfect for dessert or a special breakfast treat.

Sugar

You’ll find about 25 grams of sugar per serving, primarily from organic granulated sugar and the natural sweetness of fresh cranberries. While it's indulgent, it's a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Fat

This recipe has around 20 grams of fat per serving, thanks to the indulgent combination of heavy whipping cream and buttery croissants. While significantly rich, the balance of flavors is well worth it for a comforting dessert experience.

Exploring the nutritional aspects of your food can be eye-opening! Curious about how these numbers impact your overall diet? Check out sites like NutritionData or MyFitnessPal for deeper insights.

FAQ about Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Can I use other types of bread?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for buttery croissants, you can experiment with various types of bread. French bread, brioche, or even whole grain bread will work wonderfully. Just remember that the texture may vary slightly, and you'll want to adjust the soaking time to ensure all the flavors meld beautifully.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Making a vegan version of your Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is simple! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). This way, you’ll still enjoy the delicious flavor and texture without using animal products!

What are some alternative toppings?

If you're looking to get creative with toppings, the options are endless! Consider drizzling maple syrup, adding a sprinkle of cinnamon, or topping it off with toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch. Fresh whipped coconut cream can also be a delightful addition, complementing the Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding beautifully.

Conclusion on Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is the perfect blend of sweet and tart, offering warmth and comfort in every bite. Whether served as a cozy dessert or a delightful brunch surprise, this dish is sure to please. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your experience! For more inspiration, check out this baking guide.