Are you craving the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread, infused with the sweet-tart burst of dried cranberries? Then look no further! This easy dried cranberry bread recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises a delicious and satisfying result. It's one of those healthy meals that’s also incredibly quick to make, ideal for busy weeknights. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this simple yet impressive recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup dried cranberries
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Dry Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents pockets of baking soda from creating a bitter taste.
Step 2: Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender crumb. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Gentle Mixing
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf, so be gentle! Stir in the buttermilk and dried cranberries. The batter will be slightly thick.
Step 4: Baking the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last 15 minutes; every oven is different.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the bread to set and prevents it from becoming soggy. Once cooled, slice and serve. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cranberry Bread:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing and a lighter texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it's ready.
- Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer storage.
Variations:
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Nuts: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and complexity.
- Chocolate Chips: Mix in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Protein: 4-5g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
This easy dried cranberry bread recipe is perfect for any occasion. From a quick weeknight dinner to a festive holiday gathering, this delicious and healthy loaf will be a hit with everyone. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade baking!