The aroma of baked cranberry pudding wafts through the air, tickling your senses with its sweet and tart notes. Imagine cutting into a warm, golden dessert that’s bursting with juicy cranberries nestled in a fluffy, cloud-like base.
This delightful dessert isn’t just for holiday feasts; it’s perfect for cozy family gatherings or a casual dinner party. I remember the first time I whipped up this recipe, and my friends’ faces lit up like Christmas lights when they took their first bites.
– This baked cranberry pudding is incredibly easy to prepare, even for novice bakers.
– It boasts a unique flavor profile that balances tart cranberries with a hint of sweetness.
– The vibrant colors and textures make it visually stunning—a showstopper for any table.
– It’s versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences, perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Baked Cranberry Pudding
- This incredible Baked Cranberry Pudding transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I still chuckle when my brother declared this pudding “the best thing since sliced bread.” He promptly went back for thirds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Cranberries: Choose plump berries; frozen ones work too but may alter texture slightly.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar enhances sweetness; consider brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
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All-Purpose Flour: This provides structure; you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
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Baking Powder: Ensures the pudding rises nicely, creating that fluffy texture we all love.
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Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess, but almond or oat milk works well too.
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Eggs: Fresh eggs help bind everything together and contribute to the pudding’s lightness.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash adds a lovely aroma and enhances overall flavor; don’t skip it!
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Butter: Melted butter adds richness; opt for unsalted to control the final saltiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Cranberry Pudding
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. The mixture should look light and fluffy.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix! Lumps are okay; they add character (and taste).
Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold fresh cranberries into the batter. You want them evenly distributed without crushing them—think of them as little jewels waiting to burst with flavor.
Transfer and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula and pop it in the oven! Bake for about 35-40 minutes until golden on top and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the pudding to set up perfectly—trust me; patience is key here! Enjoy warm with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
This delightful baked cranberry pudding will have everyone asking for seconds—and possibly thirds! Indulge in this scrumptious dessert that feels like a warm hug on chilly nights.
You Must Know About Baked Cranberry Pudding
- This showstopping Baked Cranberry Pudding delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Get your oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) before you start mixing your ingredients. This way, your Baked Cranberry Pudding will rise beautifully and bake evenly. Combine the cranberries with sugar and let them sit; this enhances their flavor and ensures they won’t sink to the bottom like a bad date. Then mix your pudding batter while those little treasures marinate in their sugary goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add a splash of orange juice or zest for an extra zing! For a richer flavor, consider folding in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips because who doesn’t love a surprise treat? Experimenting is half the fun of cooking!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—about 10-15 minutes should do it! This dish is just as delightful warm as it is cold!
Chef's Helpful Tips for Baked Cranberry Pudding
- This professional-quality Baked Cranberry Pudding relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Sharing stories about kitchen triumphs always warms my heart. I vividly remember the first time I made this pudding; my friends devoured it and demanded I make it again—talk about pressure! Their laughter filled my kitchen as they fought over the last piece, making me feel like a culinary rockstar.
FAQ
What can I substitute if I don’t have cranberries?
If cranberries aren’t available, blueberries or chopped apples can work well instead! They’ll provide similar sweetness and texture without compromising too much on flavor. Do remember that each fruit has its own unique taste profile, so adjust your sugar accordingly to enhance their natural sweetness!
Can I make Baked Cranberry Pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. If baking from cold, just add an extra 10 minutes to your baking time for perfectly fluffy pudding!
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this Baked Cranberry Pudding gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free; then you’re set for success without sacrificing any deliciousness!
How do I serve Baked Cranberry Pudding?
Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top for added indulgence! A sprinkle of powdered sugar can also elevate its presentation—because we eat with our eyes first, right? Enjoy every bite!
Conclusion for Baked Cranberry Pudding
Baked Cranberry Pudding is truly a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create something that wows both your taste buds and guests alike. Remember to experiment with flavors, utilize proper storage techniques, and don’t forget the importance of letting your pudding rest before serving! So gather those cranberries and get baking—it’s time to impress everyone around you!
Baked Cranberry Pudding
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 9
Description
Baked Cranberry Pudding is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, creating a warm and inviting treat for any occasion. With its fluffy texture and vibrant colors, this pudding is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Simple to prepare and versatile enough for various dietary needs, it’s an ideal choice for family gatherings or holiday celebrations. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Add milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; stir gently until just mixed.
- Fold in fresh cranberries without crushing them.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden on top and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
