If you’re searching for a holiday treat that perfectly balances tart, sweet, and a hint of warm spice, this Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe is going to be your new favorite tradition. Imagine biting into a moist, tender loaf packed with fresh cranberries that burst with flavor, all brightened by citrus notes from orange zest and juice. This loaf not only fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas of the season but also brings a festive splash of color to your holiday table, making it a must-bake for cozy gatherings and special winter breakfasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each playing a crucial role in crafting the perfect texture and delightful flavor. From the aromatic cinnamon to the juicy cranberries, these staples combine to create something truly memorable.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure needed for a tender loaf.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the loaf rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works together with baking powder for optimal leavening.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the loaf.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, festive spice that complements the cranberries.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and moistness to the crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of cranberries with sweet depth.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Offers subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup orange juice: Infuses a fresh citrus note and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Intensifies the bright, fruity character.
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, halved: The star of the loaf, bursting with tangy goodness.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
How to Make Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan well and consider lining it with parchment paper to ensure your beautiful loaf comes out effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This dry mix creates the base for your loaf’s tender crumb and infuses every bite with gentle warmth.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating a light texture in your Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe, ensuring each slice is moist but airy.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest—these ingredients bring freshness and aromatic lift to the loaf.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can toughen your loaf, so be careful to blend just enough for a uniform batter.
Step 6: Fold in Cranberries and Nuts
Carefully fold in the halved cranberries and nuts if you’re using them. This step ensures those bursts of fruit and crunch are evenly distributed throughout the loaf, giving delightful texture in every bite.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This slow bake perfectly develops flavor and sets the crumb just right.
Step 8: Cool and Optional Glaze
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. For a special festive touch, consider drizzling with an orange glaze made from powdered sugar and a bit of orange juice.
How to Serve Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
To really wow your guests, garnish your loaf with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a glossy orange glaze. Fresh cranberries or sprigs of rosemary alongside each plate add a lovely seasonal flair.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, spiced tea, or even hot cocoa for an indulgent holiday treat. For a brunch centerpiece, serve alongside creamy yogurt or a smooth cream cheese spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap your Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe slices individually in parchment and tie with festive ribbon for charming gift-giving. Alternatively, serve thick slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey for a delightful dessert twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cranberry loaf fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Freezing
The Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
To enjoy the loaf warm, reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. This brings back that fresh-baked feel and enhances the flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well and will add the same lovely tartness; just be sure to toss them in a bit of flour before mixing them in to prevent sinking.
Is it possible to omit the nuts?
Yes, you can skip the walnuts or pecans if you prefer a nut-free loaf or want a smoother texture—either way, the loaf remains delicious.
How do I make the orange glaze?
Simply whisk powdered sugar with fresh orange juice until smooth and pourable, then drizzle over the cooled loaf for that perfect sweet citrus shine.
Can I double this recipe to make two loaves?
Definitely! Just double all ingredients and bake in two loaf pans to maintain proper baking times and doneness.
What if my loaf isn’t cooked through after 60 minutes?
If your toothpick comes out with wet batter, keep baking in 5-minute increments, tenting loosely with foil if the top is browning too quickly.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe is one of those heartwarming treats that feel like a hug in every slice. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, its festive flavors and welcoming aroma will fill your home with holiday cheer. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a beloved seasonal treasure you’ll look forward to year after year. Happy baking!
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Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Christmas Cranberry Loaf is a festive and flavorful quick bread perfect for holiday celebrations. Bursting with tart cranberries, zesty orange, and warm cinnamon, this moist loaf combines classic holiday flavors in every bite. Optional chopped nuts add a delightful crunch, while a simple orange glaze can elevate its festivity. Easy to prepare and bake, this loaf also freezes well for future enjoyment.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (halved)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper if desired to ensure easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate and create a smooth batter.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest to infuse the batter with bright citrus notes.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can make the loaf tough.
- Fold in Cranberries and Nuts: Gently fold in the halved cranberries along with the chopped walnuts or pecans if using, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For an extra festive touch, drizzle the cooled loaf with an orange glaze made by mixing powdered sugar with a bit of orange juice.
- This loaf freezes well; wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
