If you’re looking for a delicious and festive treat, this Cranberry Bread is the perfect choice. With its golden-brown crust and vibrant cranberry filling, this bread is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making it ideal for any occasion.
Cranberry Bread
Why This Cranberry Bread is the Best
- Tangy and Sweet: The tartness of the cranberries is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Beautiful Presentation: The golden crust and vibrant cranberries make this bread a showstopper.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this bread is perfect even for beginners.
This Cranberry Bread is inspired by traditional recipes but with a modern twist. The combination of tart cranberries and a sweet, buttery crust creates a delightful contrast that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this bread is a must-try for any dessert lover.
Ingredient Notes
- White sugar: Provides sweetness and moisture to the bread.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor, contributing to a tender texture.
- Eggs: Serve as a binder and provide structure, moisture, and richness.
- Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Flour: Forms the base of the bread, giving it structure and body.
- Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread rise and become fluffy.
- Milk: Adds moisture and helps combine the dry ingredients.
- Orange juice: Infuses the bread with a fresh citrus flavor.
- Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile with sweetness.
- Grated orange peel: Adds a burst of citrus aroma and flavor.
- Walnuts: Provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, complementing the cranberries.
- Cranberries: Contribute tartness and vibrant color, creating a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- With Butter: Spread a bit of butter on a warm slice for a comforting treat.
- Paired with Coffee: Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack.
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprig of rosemary or mint for an extra touch of elegance.
- With Cream Cheese: A spread of cream cheese adds a creamy contrast to the tart cranberries.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries will give the best flavor and texture to the bread.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir until just combined to avoid dense bread.
- Let the Bread Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and a set filling.
A Perfect Holiday Treat
This Cranberry Bread is a festive, delicious treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. Its vibrant color and tangy-sweet flavor make it a standout dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just looking for a special treat, this bread is sure to impress.
Cranberry Bread
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups white sugar
- 1 cup butter 2 sticks or cubes
- 4 eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 2/3 cups flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon grated orange peel
- 1 1/2 cups walnuts chopped
- 1 bag cranberries coarsely chopped
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: salt, flour, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: milk, orange juice, vanilla, and orange zest.
- Gradually add the dry and wet ingredients to the sugar and butter mixture, alternating between the two and mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the chopped walnuts and cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into 5 small loaf pans or 3 larger loaf pans, depending on your preference. Bake at 350°F for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- For the best results, grease and flour the pans before adding the batter.
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Cranberry Bread