Slipping into my kitchen on a chilly afternoon, I found myself yearning for something comforting and delicious, yet simple to whip up. Enter my Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding—a delightful blend of sweet, tangy cranberries and luscious maple syrup that transforms stale bread into a cozy, heartwarming dessert. This recipe not only allows you to rescue leftover bread but also promises a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful treat baking in the oven, filling your home with a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone eagerly waiting for dessert. Ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of warmth and nostalgia? Let’s dive into the magic of this enchanting dessert!
Why is This Bread Pudding Special?
Comforting flavors unite in this warm dessert, making it a perfect treat for chilly evenings. Quick prep time of just 15 minutes means you can enjoy this cozy dish without hours in the kitchen. Unique twist: the combination of maple syrup and fresh cranberries offers a sweet-tart balance that will tantalize your taste buds. Crowd-pleaser: it’s ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties, sure to impress both friends and family alike. Versatile enough to be served warm or cold, this bread pudding is a delightful way to use up stale bread creatively!
Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding Ingredients
• Unleash the magic of Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding with these delightful ingredients!
For the Pudding
- 4 cups stale bread – perfect for soaking up the custard and adding texture.
- 2 cups milk – provides creaminess for the custard base.
- 1 cup heavy cream – adds richness that makes each bite luscious.
- ¾ cup maple syrup – infuses natural sweetness and elevates the flavor profile.
- ½ cup sugar – balances sweetness, but feel free to adjust based on preference.
- 4 large eggs – essential for binding the ingredients together for a fluffy texture.
- 1 cup fresh cranberries – introduces a tart contrast, brightening the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a warm note that enhances the overall aroma.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon – contributes a hint of spice, perfect for cozying up!
- ¼ teaspoon salt – amplifies the sweetness and balances the flavors.
With these simple yet impactful ingredients, your Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding is destined to become a family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding bakes evenly and reaches that perfect golden brown finish. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and set up your workspace, so you're ready to create this delightful dish without interruptions.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Using a whisk, blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated, creating a rich custard base. This creamy concoction will infuse the stale bread and cranberries with sweetness.
Step 3: Combine Bread and Cranberries
Gently fold the cubed stale bread and fresh cranberries into the custard mixture. Use a spatula to ensure each piece of bread is well-coated and absorbing those luscious flavors. As you mix, you’ll see the bread becoming softer and more inviting, which is exactly what you want for your Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Once your dish is ready, carefully pour the custard-bread mixture into it, spreading it evenly across the surface. This will allow the pudding to cook uniformly, resulting in a deliciously satisfying dessert.
Step 5: Bake the Bread Pudding
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and look for a beautiful golden brown top and a set center. When it reaches this stage, your Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding will be a warm, inviting sight, perfect for serving.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let your Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding cool for about 5-10 minutes. This cooling period allows the pudding to set a bit more, making it easier to cut into servings while still being delightfully warm and comforting.
What to Serve with Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding
This delightful dessert beautifully complements heartwarming meals, making your dining experience even more memorable.
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Warm Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, creamy texture adds a luscious element, enhancing the overall flavor experience of the pudding. A spoonful of melting vanilla ice cream brings out the sweetness of the entire dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery, these potatoes create a delightful contrast to the sweet and tart bread pudding, channeling comfort food vibes. The comforting taste works seamlessly, making every bite an exquisite combination.
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Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, fragrant drink perfectly balances the sweetness while its spices echo the warmth of cinnamon in the pudding. Sip slowly and feel the coziness unfold with every taste.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette will bring freshness to your meal, cutting through the sweetness of the bread pudding. The crisp greens and zesty dressing create a refreshing contrast everyone will enjoy.
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Chocolate Ganache Topping: Drizzling rich chocolate over your bread pudding elevates the dessert to a whole new level of indulgence. The combination of chocolate and cranberries evokes an irresistible flavor harmony.
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Cinnamon Whipped Cream: A dollop of cinnamon-infused whipped cream enhances the pudding’s warmth, making each bite even more comforting. It’s a simple touch that transforms the ordinary into extraordinary.
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Toasted Pecans: Adding a sprinkle of toasted pecans adds crunch and earthiness, enhancing the texture and creating a delightful nutty flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel over your bread pudding introduces a silky, sweet layer that complements the maple and cranberry flavors perfectly. The warm, sticky finish takes the experience to another delectable dimension.
Each of these pairings will create a symphony of flavors and textures, turning every serving of Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding into a memorable feast for the senses.
Expert Tips for Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding
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Use Stale Bread: Ensure your bread is stale to absorb the custard without getting soggy. Fresh bread won’t yield the same delightful texture.
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Mix Gently: When incorporating the bread and cranberries, mix gently to avoid breaking up the bread too much. The goal is to keep chunks that hold up during baking.
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Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different! Start checking your bread pudding around 40 minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-bake and dry out.
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Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup and sugar based on your taste preference. This Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding can easily adapt to suit your sweetness level.
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Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm from the oven! Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent experience.
How to Store and Freeze Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the bread pudding moist while preserving its delightful flavors.
Freezer: If you want to make Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding ahead of time, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your stored bread pudding, reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Thawing: For frozen pudding, transfer it to the fridge a day before baking to allow for a gradual thawing; then bake as directed to restore its delicious texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the custard mixture and combine it with the stale bread and fresh cranberries up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover the mixture tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and pop it in a preheated oven. For those looking to plan even further ahead, you can freeze the assembled pudding for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking, ensuring the quality remains just as delicious!
Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding Variations
Get ready to take your Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding to the next level with these fun twists and substitutions that will make it uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for a delightful version that everyone can enjoy. Just ensure it's sturdy to absorb the custard.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and coconut cream for a rich, creamy alternative, perfect for those avoiding dairy.
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Nutty Finish: Stir in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to add a delicious crunch and enhance the texture.
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Fruit Medley: Swap cranberries with a mix of dried fruits like raisins and apricots for a fruity burst of flavor that creates a tapestry of tastes.
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Chocolate Swirl: Add dark chocolate chips before baking for a decadent twist that will make all chocolate lovers swoon!
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Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warm spices that will elevate the flavor.
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Maple-Bourbon Glaze: Drizzle a homemade maple-bourbon glaze over the warm pudding just before serving for a sophisticated touch that adds depth to your dessert.
Each variation offers a unique spin, turning this comfort classic into something exciting and new while still enveloping you in delicious warmth.
Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect stale bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for bread that is firm and a bit dry, preferably a day or two old—French bread, brioche, or sourdough work beautifully. Avoid bread with dark spots or mold, as this can affect the taste and texture of your Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding.
What’s the best way to store leftover bread pudding?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This method keeps your Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding moist and prevents it from drying out. When you're ready to indulge again, simply reheat portions in the microwave for a quick treat!
Can I freeze maple cranberry bread pudding?
Absolutely! For a make-ahead option, freeze the prepared pudding before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, transfer it to the refrigerator the night before to gently thaw.
What should I do if my bread pudding turns out too soggy?
Very good question! If your Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding is soggy, it might be due to using too fresh bread or letting it soak in the custard mixture for too long. To prevent this in the future, use stale bread that can absorb the custard without falling apart, and ensure you bake it until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, substituting the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk can work well. For those allergic to eggs, you can use a flaxseed meal substitute—mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, letting it sit until it thickens to create a great binding agent for your bread pudding.
Can I add other fruits or ingredients to this recipe?
Of course! The more the merrier! You can mix in an array of fruits such as apples, pears, or blueberries for added flavor and texture. Nuts or chocolate chips make delightful additions too, just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly based on what you choose!
Indulgent Maple Cranberry Bread Pudding for Cozy Evenings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
- Gently fold in the cubed stale bread and fresh cranberries until well-coated.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the custard-bread mixture into it, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
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