Are you dreaming of warm, comforting aromas filling your kitchen? Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of moist, tangy bread bursting with sweet cranberries and creamy swirls of cream cheese. This Cream Cheese Cranberry Bread recipe is the perfect answer! It’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for holiday gatherings or simply a cozy night in. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This step ensures your bread will easily release from the pan once baked.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients:
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is best achieved using an electric mixer, but you can certainly do it by hand if you're feeling energetic!
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Combining Dry and Wet Ingredients:
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents, leading to a lighter loaf.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Adding the Star Ingredients:
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Gently fold in the dried cranberries. Avoid overmixing to prevent them from breaking down.
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In a separate small bowl, soften the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add this to the batter and stir until the cream cheese is evenly distributed.
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. Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven.
Cooling and Serving:
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Cranberry Bread:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using softened butter and cream cheese is crucial for proper emulsification and a smoother batter.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer to test for doneness. If it comes out with moist crumbs, bake for a few more minutes.
- Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of one orange or lemon for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced bread.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Around 300-350
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Protein: Around 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: Around 40-45g
This delicious Cream Cheese Cranberry Bread is perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture, delightful cranberry bursts, and creamy cream cheese swirls make it an irresistible treat. Enjoy baking and sharing this homemade delight!