Below is a fully original, detailed, and easy-to-follow article about Christmas Cranberry Loaf, written in a warm, festive tone and presented with clear step-by-step instructions.

Christmas Cranberry Loaf — A Festive Slice of Comfort and Cheer

When December arrives and kitchens start filling with warm spices, sweet citrus, and homemade treats, nothing captures the spirit of the season quite like a Christmas Cranberry Loaf. This vibrant, tender loaf combines tart cranberries, bright orange zest, and a soft buttery crumb—creating a holiday bake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy breakfast, a Christmas brunch table, or as a heartfelt homemade gift, this loaf brings joy with every slice. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare it perfectly from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cranberry Loaf

• Festive Flavors: Cranberries and orange are the ultimate winter pairing.
• Easy to Make: One bowl for wet ingredients and one for dry—simple and beginner-friendly.
• Moist and Tender: Sour cream or yogurt keeps the loaf beautifully soft.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrap it in parchment, tie a ribbon, and it becomes a thoughtful Christmas present.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Loaf

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, halved
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup milk
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Orange Glaze

• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• ½ teaspoon orange zest (optional)

How to Make Christmas Cranberry Loaf — Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries

Fresh cranberries are firm and tart—perfect for baking.

• Rinse and dry them.
• Slice them in half to prevent them from sinking in the batter and to distribute their flavor evenly.
• Toss the cranberries with 1 tablespoon of flour. This helps keep them suspended through the loaf and avoids streaking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

This ensures even rising and prevents any clumps.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl:

• Beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.
  This step is key to giving your loaf a tender texture.

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