Name: Cranberry Pecan Bread Pudding
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups day-old bread, cubed 2 cups heavy cream 1 cup whole milk 4 large eggs; 0.75 cup brown sugar 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 0.5 cup chopped pecans; 0.5 cup dried cranberries 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Maple syrup or caramel sauce, for drizzling (optional)

Golden, custard-soaked bread meets crunchy pecans and tart cranberries in this show-stopping Cranberry Pecan Bread Pudding. It’s everything you love about holiday desserts: warm, rich, gooey, and irresistibly sticky-sweet. This treat turns simple pantry ingredients into a cozy crowd-pleaser that belongs on every Thanksgiving dessert table.

The top layer is studded with vibrant cranberries and toasted pecans, giving a satisfying crunch to every soft, buttery bite. A drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce ties it all together. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just spoiling yourself, this dessert delivers that nostalgic holiday hug we all crave.

What Kind of Bread Works Best for Bread Pudding?

You want a hearty, slightly dry bread that can soak up all that custard goodness. Brioche, challah, or day-old French bread are perfect choices. Avoid soft sandwich bread, which can turn mushy. For bonus flavor, try using a cinnamon swirl loaf or even croissants for extra decadence.

Ingredients for the Cranberry Pecan Bread Pudding

Day-Old Bread: The foundation. A sturdy, dry bread soaks up the custard without falling apart.

Heavy Cream & Milk: These create the rich, silky custard base that defines a classic bread pudding.

Eggs: Crucial for binding the custard and helping it set during baking.

Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a deeper molasses flavor that complements the pecans.

Vanilla Extract & Cinnamon: These warm, cozy notes round out the flavor profile.

Pecans: Toasted and chopped, they add crunch and nutty depth.

Dried Cranberries: Tart and chewy, they balance the richness and bring festive color.

Butter: For extra richness and to crisp the top just slightly.

Maple Syrup or Caramel (optional): For that final drizzle of indulgence.

How To Make the Cranberry Pecan Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Cube 6 cups of day-old bread into bite-sized pieces. If your bread isn’t dry enough, toast it in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, 4 eggs, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 tbsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: Combine and Soak

Add the cubed bread to the custard and stir until all pieces are coated. Let it soak for at least 20 minutes so the bread absorbs all the flavors.

Step 4: Layer the Flavors

Grease a baking dish, then pour in the soaked bread. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped pecans and 1/2 cup of dried cranberries evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Drizzle with maple syrup or caramel and serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

How to Serve and Store Cranberry Pecan Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is best served warm, straight out of the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs beautifully with a splash of bourbon sauce or warm caramel drizzle.

To store, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F covered with foil.

What to Serve With Cranberry Pecan Bread Pudding?

Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots

The sweet-savory combo complements the dessert beautifully without overwhelming it.

Creamy Cranberry Salad

Bright and fresh, it adds a cool contrast to the warm pudding.

Dads Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re making this for a brunch or dinner spread, this hearty dish balances out the sweet.

Southern Deviled Eggs

They bring a savory edge to a rich and dessert-heavy holiday menu.

Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Because who said you can only serve one dessert? These make a fun dessert duo.

Want More Holiday Dessert Ideas?

If you’re loving this cozy cranberry creation, don’t miss these other Thanksgiving favorites:

Chocolate Chess Pie with its rich, fudgy filling and flaky crust.
Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake for a nostalgic burst of color and flavor.
German Chocolate Poke Cake that oozes with sweet coconut and pecan filling.
Salted Caramel Cupcakes if you love your sweets with a buttery twist.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls for a fruity and creamy finale.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe with fresh cranberries or a splash of orange zest? I’d love to hear your version—share your tips in the comments!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen’s Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Cranberry Pecan Bread Pudding

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a show-stopping dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day? This Cranberry Pecan Bread Pudding is it. With its golden, custard-soaked bread, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy toasted pecans, it’s the ultimate comforting sweet treat. Perfect for Thanksgiving, but honestly? You’ll want this all year long. Whether you’re planning holiday baking, seeking new breakfast ideas, or adding to your list of easy dessert recipes, this one delivers in flavor, texture, and simplicity. It’s great for a cozy brunch, potluck, or when you just need those nostalgic food ideas on hand.