The cranberry loaf is a delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors that’s perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a festive holiday treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this quick bread recipe is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Let’s explore how to make a delicious cranberry loaf that will impress family and friends alike.

If you’re looking to complement your cranberry loaf with something savory, try these Air Fryer Onion Rings for a fun and crispy side dish.

What Makes a Cranberry Loaf Special?

The cranberry loaf is cherished for its vibrant tart cranberries contrasted with a sweet, moist base. This quick bread is incredibly versatile, allowing you to add toppings, glazes, or even mix-ins like nuts or citrus zest to make it your own.

For a Southern-inspired pairing, consider serving your cranberry loaf alongside Southern Fried Chicken for a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients for a Perfect Cranberry Loaf

To make a moist and flavorful cranberry loaf, you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients:
- Fresh or frozen cranberries: Provide bursts of tart flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Ensures the right structure.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deep sweetness.
- Eggs: For binding and richness.
- Milk: Keeps the loaf tender.
- Butter: Enhances flavor and moisture.
Optional Additions:
- Orange zest for a citrusy kick.
- Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for texture.
- Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Preheat the Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, milk, and orange zest.
Combine and Fold: Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Add Cranberries: Gently fold in cranberries and any nuts or optional add-ins.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes. Test doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center.
Cool and Serve: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Topping and Flavor Variations

Elevate your cranberry loaf with these creative ideas:

Turbinado Sugar: Sprinkle on top before baking for a crunchy crust.
Citrus Glaze: Drizzle with a lemon or orange glaze for added zest.
Crumb Topping: Add a buttery streusel for extra texture.

If you enjoy experimenting with baked goods, try the Carrot Cake recipe for another dessert that’s perfect for sharing.

How to Serve Cranberry Loaf

The cranberry loaf is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and accompaniments:

Serve with coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
Add whipped cream for a light dessert.
Slice and toast lightly for a warm, satisfying snack.

Storing and Freezing Tips

Storage: Keep your cranberry loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs About Cranberry Loaf

Can I substitute fresh cranberries with dried ones?

Yes, but soak dried cranberries in orange juice or warm water to soften them before adding to the batter.

How do I keep my loaf moist?

Ensure accurate measurements, avoid overmixing, and bake at the correct temperature.

Can I make a vegan cranberry loaf?

Yes! Use plant-based milk, replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture, and substitute butter with coconut oil.

How do I prevent cranberries from sinking?

Toss the cranberries in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter.

Conclusion

The cranberry loaf is a versatile and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee, paired with Southern Fried Chicken, or shared at a family gathering, this loaf is sure to be a hit. Try it today and experience the delightful combination of tart and sweet flavors in every bite!

Delicious Cranberry Loaf: A Recipe for Every Occasion

Author: kynall

Print Recipe

Description

Bake this Delicious Cranberry Loaf with fresh cranberries and a moist, sweet base. Easy recipe with variations for toppings and serving ideas.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Loaf:

2 cups sugar
3 eggs, at room temperature
¾ cup butter, at room temperature
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 (8 oz) bag fresh cranberries

For the Crumble Topping:

¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup flour
⅓ cup butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease 2 loaf pans (or one large loaf pan or a 9-inch cake pan, if preferred).

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar for about 5 minutes, until the mixture doubles in volume for a light and fluffy texture.
Mix in butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
Fold in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light.
Gently fold in the fresh cranberries.

Step 3: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and butter. Mix until it resembles a sandy texture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
Sprinkle the crumble topping over the batter.
Bake:
- For two loaf pans: Bake for 45–50 minutes.
- For one large loaf pan: Bake for 60–70 minutes.
Test doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 5: Cool

Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

This cranberry loaf is perfect for brunch, tea time, or as a gift. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat. 🍞