This Cranberry Loaf is a delightful combination of tart cranberries and a sweet, tender bread that’s perfect for any time of year, especially during the fall and winter holidays. Bursting with flavor, this loaf is great for breakfast, a snack, or even as a light dessert. The bright pops of cranberry make it visually appealing, while the simple ingredients make it easy to whip up in no time. Let’s get started on this delicious and festive treat!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Cranberry Loaf
- Instructions for Cranberry Loaf
- Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Cranberry Loaf
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions for Cranberry Loaf
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the buttermilk until smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Add Cranberries
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest (if using) until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake the Loaf
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Notes
- Chop Cranberries Coarsely: Coarsely chop the cranberries to ensure even distribution throughout the loaf and prevent large chunks that might sink.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and a consistent texture.
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense loaf. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch.
- Citrus Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and orange juice over the cooled loaf for extra sweetness and citrus flavor.
- Dried Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are not available, you can use dried cranberries. Soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to rehydrate slightly before adding to the batter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. There’s no need to thaw them before adding to the batter—just fold them in directly.
2. How should I store the cranberry loaf?
Store the cranberry loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cranberry loaf can be made 1-2 days in advance. The flavors will develop further, making it even tastier after a day or two.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm with Butter: Serve slices of the loaf warm with a pat of butter for a comforting treat.
- With Coffee or Tea: Pair this cranberry loaf with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect morning or afternoon snack.
- Holiday Dessert: Serve the loaf with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple holiday dessert.
This Cranberry Loaf is a perfect combination of tart and sweet, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you make it for a holiday gathering or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, this loaf is sure to impress. With its tender crumb, bursts of cranberry, and hint of citrus, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Happy baking, and enjoy every tart-sweet bite!
