Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and creamy.
3. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Loaf Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
2. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream + milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the cranberries.

Step 5: Assemble the Loaf

1. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
2. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter, spreading it evenly.
3. Pour the remaining batter on top, carefully covering the cream cheese layer.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

1. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack.
2. If desired, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create a light glaze and drizzle it over the cooled loaf.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Use a serrated knife to slice the loaf. Serve it slightly warm or at room temperature with tea, coffee, or a light spread of butter.

Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Loaf

• Prevent sinking: Toss cranberries with flour before adding to the batter.
• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth batter and filling.
• Flavor boost: Add orange zest or a splash of orange juice to the batter for a citrusy twist.
• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; it also freezes well.

This loaf is a celebration of flavors and textures—the sweet, creamy cheesecake layer harmonizing perfectly with tart cranberries, all wrapped in a tender, moist cake. Whether for holidays, brunch, or a comforting treat, the Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

If you want, I can also create a shortcut version with a quick microwave or one-bowl method that’s perfect for fast baking without sacrificing flavor. Do you want me to make that version too?