Christmas Cranberry Loaf is one of those delightful treasures that instantly encapsulates the joy of the holiday season. With its vibrant bursts of tangy cranberries and a comforting, soft interior, this loaf brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and warm homes filled with laughter. Imagine slicing into a freshly baked loaf, the aroma of oranges wafting through the air, making it a perfect treat for festive breakfasts, holiday brunches, or even as a thoughtful gift for friends and loved ones.
What Makes This Recipe Special
You’ll find a plethora of reasons to whip up this festive cranberry loaf. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also requires simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The best part? It’s adaptable! Whether you want to impress guests at a holiday gathering or simply indulge in a sweet, homemade treat, this loaf fits the bill perfectly.
“I made this for my family’s Christmas brunch, and it was a hit! The orange glaze adds a delicious touch that complements the tartness of the cranberries. Everyone asked for the recipe!” – Claire W.
Preparing Christmas Cranberry Loaf
This recipe for Christmas Cranberry Loaf unfolds in straightforward steps that anyone can follow. You’ll start by combining your dry ingredients, then mix in the wet ingredients before folding in the cranberries. Finally, bake until golden and top it off with a sweet glaze if you desire. It’s a deliciously uncomplicated process that leaves you with a stunning loaf perfect for the holiday season!
What You’ll Need
To make this mouthwatering loaf, gather the following ingredients:
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Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
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Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (120ml) orange juice
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
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Mix-ins:
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
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For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons orange juice
Feel free to substitute the nuts with seeds for a nut-free version or use almond milk for a dairy-free option!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the orange juice, milk, egg, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract. If you’re using orange zest, add that now.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Gently fold in the cranberries and chopped nuts if you’re using them.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice before drizzling it over the cooled loaf.
- Slice and serve, enjoying the holiday cheer!
How to Serve It
To elevate your Christmas Cranberry Loaf experience, consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream cheese or a slice of sharp cheddar on the side. A warm cup of spiced chai or holiday coffee would complement the loaf beautifully. You can also serve it alongside a vibrant fruit salad for a fresh contrast or simply enjoy it plain—it’s delightful either way!
How to Store & Freeze
Storing your loaf is simple. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to save it for later, slice it and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, placing it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, just let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Tips for Success
- Ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Avoid overmixing your batter to keep the loaf light and fluffy.
- If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them prior to mixing; it helps maintain their shape in the loaf.
Creative Twists
Why not try adding a hint of almond extract for a delightful twist, or substitute raspberries for cranberries to explore different flavor profiles? You could also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and depth. For a holiday twist, sprinkle some festive-colored sugar on top of the glaze!
Your Questions Answered
1. How long does it take to prep and cook?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prep and around 50-60 minutes to bake.
2. Can I use dried cranberries instead?
Yes, dried cranberries can be used! Just chop them into smaller pieces to distribute the flavor evenly.
3. How can I make it gluten-free?
You can swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
With its festive flavors and straightforward preparation, this Christmas Cranberry Loaf is bound to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Enjoy the cheer, and happy baking!
