The holiday season is synonymous with warm kitchens, cozy gatherings, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goods. Among the season’s cherished treats is Cranberry Bread, a sweet-tart quick bread that perfectly captures the festive spirit. Packed with tangy cranberries, a hint of citrus, and subtle sweetness, this bread is a must-have for your holiday table.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, gifting a homemade treat, or simply craving a slice of something special, this recipe for Cranberry Bread is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details.
Cranberry Bread
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 60 min
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup (180ml) orange juice, freshly squeezed (approx. 2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins:
- 1 cup (100g) fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Preparation
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Set aside.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, orange juice, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract. Stir in the orange zest.
4. Bring it All Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this ensures a tender bread. Gently fold in the cranberries and nuts if using.
5. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve as is or with a pat of butter for added indulgence.
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Bread
- Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: Both are suitable. When using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
- Citrus Upgrade: To enhance the citrus flavor, double the orange zest or drizzle cooled bread with an orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Serving Ideas
Cranberry Bread pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, top slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey. It’s also a fantastic addition to a holiday gift basket or a thoughtful hostess gift.
This holiday season, let the bright, tangy flavors of Cranberry Bread bring cheer to your table and delight to your loved ones. Happy baking!