Description
Moist, tangy, and sweet in all the right ways, this Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is the perfect quick bread for the holidays—or anytime you want a cozy, fruit-filled bake. The cream cheese in the batter creates a soft, rich texture, while the fresh cranberries bring bursts of tart flavor. Whether you serve it for breakfast, a snack, or a festive dessert, this loaf is sure to impress.
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Ingredients
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ cup milk
1½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 tbsp flour (for tossing cranberries)
Optional Glaze
½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp milk or orange juice
Zest of ½ an orange (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Toss cranberries in 1 tbsp flour, then gently fold into the batter.
Step 7: Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Step 8: Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cover loosely with foil if browning too quickly.
Step 9: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and milk or juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf if desired.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter
Don’t overmix to keep the loaf soft and tender
Toss cranberries in flour to prevent sinking
Use orange zest for a bright citrusy twist
Let the loaf cool fully before glazing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American