Cranberry Loaf – A Moist and Flavorful Holiday Favorite
Cranberry Loaf is a delightful quick bread that combines the tartness of cranberries with the comforting sweetness of a soft, moist loaf. Perfect for holiday mornings, cozy afternoons, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift, this recipe offers a balance of tangy fruit and buttery richness. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to making the perfect Cranberry Loaf that looks beautiful and tastes divine every time.
🧈 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the loaf:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed, if possible)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, but highly recommended)
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (chopped roughly)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
For glaze (optional but lovely):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons orange juice
🍊 Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, then line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This prevents the loaf from sticking and helps it come out cleanly once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 cup sugar
- Baking powder, baking soda, and salt
This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, giving your loaf a perfect rise and even crumb.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Orange juice
- Melted butter
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Orange zest
The orange juice adds a pleasant tang that pairs beautifully with the cranberries, while the butter and eggs provide richness and moisture.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold until just combined — don’t overmix, or your loaf may become dense. The batter will be slightly thick.
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