Cream Cheese Cranberry Bread

Cream Cheese Cranberry Bread is a moist, tender loaf bursting with tart cranberries and a rich cream cheese swirl. This delightful treat is perfect for the holiday season or as a year-round indulgence. The balance of sweetness and tanginess makes it a perfect companion for a cup of coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the richness of cream cheese with the tartness of cranberries.
• Moist and tender texture with a slightly crisp crust.
• Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a holiday gift.
• Easy to make with simple ingredients.
• Freezes well for make-ahead convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Butter
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Milk
• Fresh or dried cranberries
• Cream cheese
• Powdered sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. Prepare the batter by whisking together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugar in a separate bowl until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients and milk, alternating between the two.
6. Fold in cranberries gently to avoid breaking them.
7. Prepare the cream cheese filling by mixing softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.
8. Assemble the loaf by pouring half of the batter into the loaf pan, spreading the cream cheese mixture on top, and covering with the remaining batter.
9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Citrus Twist: Mix in orange zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Chocolate Option: Fold in white or dark chocolate chips for added sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar or use a sugar substitute for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, tightly wrapped.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cranberries from sinking?

Toss the cranberries in a little flour before folding them into the batter to help them stay evenly distributed.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, but do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but soak them in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes to soften them before using.

Can I make this recipe into muffins?

Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative, though it may slightly alter the texture.

What type of cream cheese works best?

Use full-fat block cream cheese for the best texture and richness.

How do I make the loaf more moist?

Ensure not to overmix the batter and consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Why did my bread turn out dense?

Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can lead to a dense texture. Measure flour correctly and mix just until combined.

Can I add spices to the batter?

Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor.

Is this bread good for gifting?

Absolutely! Wrap it in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a homemade holiday gift.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Cranberry Bread is a perfect blend of tangy cranberries, creamy richness, and tender texture. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a make-ahead treat, this bread is sure to impress. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy a slice with your favorite hot beverage!

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 loaf
• Yield: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

A moist, tender bread with tangy cranberries and a creamy texture from cream cheese.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup fresh cranberries

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
• In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In another bowl, beat butter, cream cheese, and sugar until fluffy.
• Add eggs and vanilla, then mix in dry ingredients and milk alternately.
• Fold in cranberries and pour batter into the pan.
• Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cool before slicing.

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Notes

• Add orange zest for a citrusy touch.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days