Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding

If you’re craving something warm, rich, and just a little bit indulgent, Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding might just be your new favorite dessert. This cozy treat blends the tart brightness of fresh cranberries with the sweet, nutty warmth of amaretto, all baked into a soft, custardy bread pudding that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or treating yourself after a long day, Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding offers a comforting mix of flavors and textures that wins hearts every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting warmth: The rich custard soaked into soft bread creates a soothing, cozy texture that feels like a hug in dessert form.
• Flavor harmony: Tart cranberries and sweet amaretto balance perfectly, giving every bite bursts of bright and nutty notes.
• Simple ingredients: Using everyday pantry staples with just a few special additions keeps this recipe easy yet special.
• Perfect for gatherings: Easy to make in a large dish, it’s ideal for sharing during holidays and festive occasions.
• Versatile dessert: Delicious served warm, cold, or reheated, making it great for busy schedules and leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding comes from simple yet essential ingredients, each bringing a unique element to the final dish—from the texture of the bread to the burst of cranberries and aromatic notes of amaretto.

• Day-old bread: Stale bread absorbs custard better, giving a soft and custardy texture without turning mushy.
• Fresh cranberries: They add tartness and vibrant color that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
• Amaretto liqueur: Infuses the pudding with a nutty almond flavor that complements the cranberries perfectly.
• Eggs: Essential for thickening the custard and binding all ingredients together.
• Milk and cream: These create a rich custard base that keeps the pudding moist and luscious.
• Sugar: Balances the tartness of cranberries and enhances the natural sweetness of the pudding.
• Vanilla extract: Provides a warm background note that rounds out the flavors.
• Butter: Adds richness and prevents the pudding from drying out during baking.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg: Just a pinch brings in cozy holiday spices without overpowering the main flavors.

Variations for Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding

This classic recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to customize Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding based on your pantry, dietary needs, or flavor preferences—making it uniquely yours is part of the fun!

• Nut add-ins: Toss in toasted pecans or slivered almonds for extra crunch and a nutty surprise.
• Non-alcoholic option: Swap amaretto with almond extract or orange juice for a kid-friendly version.
• Fruit swaps: Use dried cherries, blueberries, or even apple chunks in place of cranberries to mix up the fruity element.
• Gluten-free bread: Experiment with gluten-free bread varieties to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Vegan adaptation: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut milk or almond milk, plus dairy-free butter for a vegan twist.

How to Make Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your day-old bread into cubes—about one-inch pieces work best to soak up the custard evenly without turning mushy. Spread the cubes out on a baking sheet to slightly dry if they’re too fresh.

Step 2: Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, milk, cream, vanilla extract, amaretto, and your cinnamon and nutmeg. This luscious custard will create the pudding’s rich, creamy base.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Cranberries

Gently fold the bread cubes and fresh cranberries into the custard mixture, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak for extra flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the custard-soaked bread and cranberries into a greased baking dish. Dot the top with small pieces of butter. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and set but still soft inside.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving to let the custard set completely. It’s delicious warm on its own or topped with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding

• Use sturdy bread: Breads like brioche, challah, or French bread hold shape well and add rich texture.
• Don’t over-soak: Allow bread to soak, but avoid leaving it in custard too long to keep the pudding from becoming soggy.
• Fresh versus dried cranberries: Fresh offer tangier bursts but dried cranberries bring chewy sweetness and longer shelf life.
• Allow resting time: Let the pudding rest after baking to develop deeper flavors.
• Experiment with spices: Adding cardamom or allspice in small amounts can create unique flavor twists.

How to Serve Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding

Garnishes

Top your Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or an elegant drizzle of warm caramel or vanilla sauce to add richness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a side of fresh fruit like orange slices or spiced poached pears, balancing the warm, rich pudding with cool freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a charming personal touch. Alternatively, layer it with mascarpone or cream cheese frosting for a layered trifle-style dessert that impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps preserve freshness while letting the flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the bread pudding wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture.

Reheating

Reheat your pudding gently in a warm oven (around 300°F/150°C) covered loosely with foil to prevent drying. Microwave reheating works too but may soften textures unevenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries work just fine—just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding, so they don’t add too much extra liquid.

Is it okay to use other types of alcohol instead of amaretto?

Absolutely! Brandy, bourbon, or even rum can be used, but each will slightly change the flavor profile. Amaretto’s almond notes are particularly complementary to the cranberries.

Can I make the bread pudding vegan?

Yes, by substituting eggs with flax eggs and dairy milk with plant-based milk, plus using vegan butter, you can easily make a vegan Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding that’s still delicious.

Should I use fresh or stale bread?

Day-old or slightly stale bread is best because it absorbs the custard without turning to mush, resulting in a perfect pudding texture.

How do I prevent the pudding from being too dry?

Make sure to soak the bread well in the custard and consider burrowing a few pats of butter on top before baking, which helps keep the pudding moist.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels both special and comforting, Cranberry Amaretto Bread Pudding is a delectable choice you’ll want to make again and again. Its warm, harmonious flavors and luscious texture make it the perfect finale to cozy meals or festive celebrations. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation.

Related Posts

• Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
• Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
• Easy Dried Orange Slices

Print