There’s something incredibly satisfying about the first slice of warm, moist cranberry bread, especially as the smell of buttery goodness fills the kitchen. As I prepared this loaf, I couldn’t help but reminisce about the cozy mornings spent with family, where a slice of freshly baked bread paired perfectly with steaming cups of tea. This recipe for Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread with Fresh Cranberries is not only easy to whip up using pantry staples but also strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart.
Ideal for brunch gatherings or a peaceful breakfast at home, this bread’s soft crumb and zesty cranberry bursts make it a delightful treat. Whether you’re stepping away from fast food or just seeking a wholesome, home-cooked option, this quick bread is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. Join me as I guide you through creating this cozy loaf—it’s a must-try for any baking enthusiast!
Why is Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread With Fresh Cranberries irresistible?
Comforting Aroma: The scent of this bread baking will instantly fill your home with warmth, turning any day into a cozy occasion.
Easy to Make: With just a few pantry staples, whipping up this delicious loaf is a breeze—even for beginner bakers!
Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and a subtly sweet bread creates a delightful harmony, ideal for breakfast or brunch.
Versatile Enjoyment: Slice and serve warm, topped with butter or cream cheese, or simply enjoy it on its own. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Long-Lasting Freshness: This bread keeps well, making it a great option for meal prep or for saving some to enjoy later. For more delicious ideas, don’t miss my Cranberry White Chocolate bars!
Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure; for a denser texture, substitute up to half with whole wheat flour.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a soft rise; no substitutions recommended.
- Salt – Enhances flavors; it’s essential for a balanced taste.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture; coconut oil can be a great dairy-free substitute.
- Granulated sugar – Contributes sweetness and moisture; reducing sugar may decrease the bread’s moisture.
- Large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; flax eggs can substitute for a vegan option (1 egg = 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water).
- Milk – Ensures a soft texture; opt for plant-based milk for dairy-free versions.
- Vanilla extract – Provides depth of flavor; it’s optional but highly recommended.
- Fresh cranberries – The star of the recipe, offering tartness; frozen cranberries can be used without thawing.
- Orange zest (optional) – Adds a burst of citrus brightness; can be omitted if you don’t have it.
Embrace the joy of baking with this Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread with Fresh Cranberries that will surely be a hit at your next gathering!
How to Make Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread With Fresh Cranberries
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agent throughout the flour, ensuring a soft and airy loaf.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes; the mixture will become pale and airy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and optional orange zest for added flavor. This step brings richness and moisture to the bread.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be mindful here!
- Fold in the fresh cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will infuse each bite with that lovely tartness we adore in cranberry bread.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This will help maintain its moisture and structure.
Optional: Drizzle some icing on top for an extra sweet touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature. This promotes better mixing and a more uniform texture in your moist delicious cranberry bread.
- Cranberry Toss: Toss fresh cranberries in a little flour before folding them into the batter. This simple trick helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf while baking.
- Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step helps maintain moisture and structure, ensuring each slice is perfect.
- Toothpick Test: Check for doneness around the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached to avoid overbaking your moist delicious cranberry bread.
- Mixing Gently: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix gently until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so treat your batter with care for that soft crumb!
Make Ahead Options
These Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread with Fresh Cranberries are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can also prepare the batter, pour it into the loaf pan, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time on busy mornings but ensures the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the loaf straight from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, warm bread with minimal effort, just as delicious as when made fresh!
Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your cranberry bread to suit your taste or dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a rich, moist texture without dairy. Perfect for lactose-intolerant friends!
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 egg = 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based for a delightful vegan loaf. Everyone deserves a slice!
- Whole Grain: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add fiber and a nutty flavor, making it a bit heartier while still deliciously moist.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking for a delightful crunch and extra nutrients. The nutty essence pairs beautifully with the cranberries!
- Enhanced Citrus: For a flavor boost, sprinkle in some lemon or grapefruit zest along with the orange zest. This citrus medley adds an exciting twist to the loaf!
- Dried Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are out of season, replace them with dried cranberries after soaking them in warm water or orange juice to plump them up for a sweet burst in every bite.
- Spiced Up: Sprinkle in some ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor, particularly delightful during the cooler months. It brings a cozy warmth to your kitchen!
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in some dark or white chocolate chips along with the cranberries for a decadent twist. The sweetness of the chocolate combined with tart cranberries is pure bliss!
What to Serve with Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread With Fresh Cranberries?
Indulge in a delightful meal by accompanying this enticing bread with some perfect pairings.
- Creamy Butter: A generous spread of rich butter melts beautifully into warm slices, enhancing the bread’s comforting texture and flavor.
- Tangy Cream Cheese: Soft, tangy cream cheese complements the tartness of the cranberries, making every bite a luxurious experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the bread with natural zesty flavors.
- Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey over each slice adds a touch of sweetness, creating a delightful harmony with the cranberry’s tartness.
- Herbal Tea: Serve a steaming cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, to complement the warmth and aroma of the bread.
- Yogurt Parfait: Pair slices with a yogurt parfait layered with granola and berries—it’s a wholesome way to enjoy breakfast or brunch!
- Hot Chocolate: For a cozy treat, sip on hot chocolate while enjoying the bread—it’s the perfect indulgence on a chilly day.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar on warm slices for an irresistible twist that combines spice with sweet delight.
With these pairings, you’ll elevate your experience with Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread With Fresh Cranberries into a full meal, ideal for sharing among friends and family!
How to Store and Freeze Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread With Fresh Cranberries
Room Temperature: Wrap the bread in plastic wrap to keep it fresh for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor.
Fridge: Store the loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This will extend its shelf life while keeping it delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, pop slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This brings back its wonderful aroma and texture!
Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread with Fresh Cranberries Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries are ideal for this recipe as they provide the perfect tartness. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen cranberries can be used straight from the freezer without thawing. Just toss them in a little flour to prevent them from sinking in the batter.
How should I store my cranberry bread?
I recommend wrapping the bread in plastic wrap to keep it fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend its freshness, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It’s the best way to ensure your Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread with Fresh Cranberries remains delightful!
Can I freeze cranberry bread?
Very! To freeze your cranberry bread, slice it after it’s completely cooled. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to an airtight bag; they’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a warm slice.
What if my bread turned out dense?
If your cranberry bread is denser than expected, it may be due to overmixing the batter. To avoid this, mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Ensure your wet ingredients are at room temperature as well—this helps create a better texture. And remember to check your oven temperature; an oven that runs hot may cause it to bake unevenly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make this Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread with Fresh Cranberries dairy-free by substituting unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. Likewise, using plant-based milk instead of regular milk will keep it completely dairy-free while still delivering that delightful moistness.
Is this recipe suitable for pets?
No, it’s essential to keep this bread away from pets! Ingredients like sugar and cranberries can be harmful to them. Always stick to pet-safe treats to ensure their well-being.
Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread with Fresh Cranberries to Savor
Equipment
- loaf pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour for a denser texture
- 1 tsp baking powder no substitutions recommended
- 1/2 tsp salt essential for balanced taste
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened, can use coconut oil for dairy-free
- 1 cup granulated sugar reducing sugar may decrease moisture
- 2 large eggs can substitute with flax eggs
- 1/2 cup milk preferably plant-based for dairy-free
- 1 tsp vanilla extract optional but recommended
- 2 cups fresh cranberries frozen can be used without thawing
- 1 tbsp orange zest optional for citrus brightness
Instructions
How to Make Moist Delicious Cranberry Bread With Fresh Cranberries
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and optional orange zest.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently.
- Fold in the fresh cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Nutrition
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