There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the kitchen, and this Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is the ultimate holiday-inspired treat. It’s tender, moist, and rich, with the creamy tang of cream cheese perfectly balanced by the tart sweetness of cranberries. Whether served at a holiday brunch, gifted as a homemade present, or enjoyed with an afternoon cup of coffee, this loaf is an instant crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.
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Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf
Moist and Rich Texture – The cream cheese ensures every bite stays soft and luscious.
Festive Flavors – Tart cranberries bring a burst of freshness that makes this loaf feel special.
Easy Yet Impressive – Simple to make, but it looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery.
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Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure for the loaf while keeping it light.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the loaf rise beautifully and prevents it from being dense.
½ teaspoon baking soda – Balances acidity from the cream cheese and cranberries for a perfect rise.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and creates a tender crumb.
8 oz cream cheese, softened – The star ingredient that makes the loaf moist and creamy.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the loaf while complementing the tart cranberries.
2 large eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries – Adds bright bursts of tartness that balance the sweet, creamy loaf.
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – Brings a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and cream cheese – In a large bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
4. Add sugar and eggs – Mix in sugar until well combined, then add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Combine wet and dry mixtures – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined (avoid overmixing).
6. Fold in cranberries and nuts – Gently stir in cranberries and nuts, ensuring even distribution.
7. Bake the loaf – Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool before slicing – Let the loaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Don’t Overmix – Overmixing the batter can make the loaf dense. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Softened butter, cream cheese, and eggs blend more smoothly, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
Toss Cranberries in Flour – Lightly coat cranberries in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter to prevent them from sinking.
Try a Glaze – Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled loaf for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
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Serving Suggestions
Breakfast or Brunch – Serve warm slices with a pat of butter or cream cheese spread.
Afternoon Treat – Pair with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or mulled cider.
Holiday Dessert Table – Dress it up with a glaze and sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive centerpiece.
Gift Idea – Wrap cooled slices or the whole loaf in festive paper for a thoughtful homemade present.
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Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. With its moist, rich crumb, bursts of tart cranberries, and creamy undertones, it’s a recipe that’s equal parts comforting and festive. Easy to prepare yet impre
ssive enough for special occasions, this loaf is destined to become a holiday baking tradition in your home.
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