Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf

Moist, tangy, and packed with bright cranberry flavor, this Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is the perfect balance of sweet and tart. With swirls of creamy goodness throughout and bursts of juicy cranberries in every slice, this festive quick bread makes a lovely holiday treat or a year-round breakfast favorite. It’s simple to make, beautiful to serve, and even better to eat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet & Tart – Fresh cranberries add a fruity zing to every bite.
Creamy Texture – Cream cheese in the batter makes it ultra-moist and tender.
Beautiful Presentation – A gorgeous loaf that slices up like a dream.
Perfect for Holidays – Festive enough for gifting, easy enough for everyday.
Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and freeze for busy mornings or last-minute guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (if frozen, do not thaw)
• 1 tbsp orange zest (optional, for extra brightness)
• 1 tbsp flour (for tossing cranberries)

For the Glaze (Optional):
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tbsp orange or milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Tools You’ll Need
• Loaf pan (8×4 or 9×5-inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line your loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add the sugar and beat until light and creamy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavoring
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and orange zest if using.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Add the dry ingredients in two additions, alternating with the milk.
Mix just until combined—don’t overmix.

Step 6: Add Cranberries
Toss cranberries with 1 tbsp of flour (helps prevent sinking).
Gently fold them into the batter with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cover with foil in the last 10–15 minutes if browning too quickly.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
If glazing, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla, and orange juice or milk until smooth.
Drizzle over the cooled loaf before slicing.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Loaf
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Helps everything blend evenly.
Don’t Overmix – Stir until just combined to keep the loaf tender.
Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Both work great—no need to thaw frozen.
Add Nuts – Chopped walnuts or pecans add texture and warmth.
Brighten the Flavor – Orange zest gives a citrusy pop that complements the cranberries.

Serving Suggestions
With Coffee or Tea – A cozy morning or afternoon pairing.
Holiday Breakfast – Serve sliced with butter and fresh fruit.
As a Dessert – Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt.
Gift It – Wrap it in parchment and ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
On a Brunch Table – Alongside egg dishes, muffins, and juice.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Room Temperature: Wrap tightly and store up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days.

Freezing:
Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight at room temperature or in the fridge.

Reheating:
Slice and warm in a toaster oven or microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried cranberries?
   Yes—use 1 cup and soak in warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up.
2. Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
   Yes—use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and check baking times.
3. Can I skip the cream cheese?
   It adds moisture and richness, but you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute.
4. Can I make this recipe into muffins?
   Yes! Bake in a muffin tin for 18–22 minutes, or until golden and set.
5. What if I don’t have orange zest?
   It’s optional! Use lemon zest or skip it—the loaf will still be delicious.

Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is a bakery-style treat that’s as festive as it is flavorful. With creamy richness, tart cranberries, and the perfect tender crumb, it’s ideal for holiday mornings, cozy weekends, or anytime you crave something sweet and satisfying. One slice won’t be enough!

Try it out and let us know how you liked it—share your photos, leave a review, and spread the loaf love.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 240 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 180mg

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