There’s something truly heartwarming about the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the house, especially when it’s a Classic Christmas Cranberry Bread. As the holidays approach, I can’t help but crave the vibrant tartness of cranberries mingling with the sweetness of almond and vanilla, creating a delightful contrast that dances on your taste buds. This recipe is not just a treat for the senses; it’s a festive tradition that brings friends and family together, perfect for sharing with neighbors or enjoying during cozy gatherings.
With its soft, buttery texture and a delightful crumb topping, this quick bread captures the essence of holiday cheer in every slice. Whether you’re whipping it up for breakfast on Christmas morning or as a sweet accompaniment for your holiday coffee, this cranberry bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your winter baking repertoire. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s bound to delight everyone around your table!
Why is Cranberry Bread a Holiday Favorite?
Comforting aromas fill your kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere. Soft and buttery, each slice is bursting with tart cranberries that bring joy to your taste buds. Easy to make, this quick bread requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Perfectly festive, it’s an ideal treat for sharing or enjoying with a cozy cup of coffee. I promise this delightful bread will quickly become a cherished tradition, adding sweetness to your holiday celebrations!
Cranberry Bread Ingredients
• Get ready to create the best holiday treat with these essential ingredients!
For the Bread
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the bread; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Eggs – Adds moisture and richness; make sure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses depth of flavor; always opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
- Sugar – Sweetens the bread and contributes to its tender texture.
- Butter (softened) – Creates a tender crumb and adds richness; ensure it’s at room temperature.
- Almond Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; can be replaced with additional vanilla extract if desired.
- Fresh Cranberries – Provide the perfect tartness and moisture; avoid dried cranberries for this recipe, but frozen are acceptable (do not thaw).
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
For the Topping
- Cold Butter – Cut into small pieces to create a crunchy streusel topping; helps achieve that delightful texture.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of molasses sweetness to the crumb topping.
This recipe showcases the splendor of cranberry bread, making it a highlight of your holiday festivities!
How to Make Cranberry Bread
Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two loaf pans by greasing and flouring them to ensure your bread doesn’t stick.
Chop cranberries: Roughly chop your fresh cranberries and set them aside. This will help release their natural tartness into the bread as it bakes.
Beat eggs and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together on medium-high speed for about 5 minutes. You want the mixture to become pale and fluffy, which adds airiness to your bread.
Incorporate butter: Gradually add the softened butter to the egg and sugar mixture, mixing until smooth. Then, stir in the vanilla and almond extracts for a delightful flavor depth.
Whisk dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the bread will rise perfectly.
Combine mixtures: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture just until combined. Be careful not to overmix as this could lead to a dense texture.
Fold in cranberries: Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter without breaking them apart.
Divvy up the batter: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula for a nice finished look.
Make streusel topping: In a small bowl, mix together the cold butter, brown sugar, and a touch of flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. This will create a crunchy topping.
Sprinkle and bake: Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter in both pans. Bake for 45-50 minutes for two loaves or 60-70 minutes for one large loaf, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the bread: Once baked, cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps develop the flavors even more.
Optional: Serve warm with butter or cream cheese for an extra delightful treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Christmas Cranberry Bread loaves are a great choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients except for the cranberries, which should be added just before baking to maintain their vibrant texture. Simply cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate to keep the flavors fresh and delicious. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and fold in the cranberries, then pour the batter into the loaf pans, sprinkle on the streusel topping, and bake as directed. With this plan, you’ll enjoy home-baked goodness with minimal last-minute effort, making holiday mornings a breeze!
What to Serve with Classic Christmas Cranberry Bread?
Looking to elevate your holiday dining experience? Pairing the vibrant flavors of cranberry bread with complementary sides can create a delightful festive feast.
- Creamy Butter: A generous spread of soft, creamy butter enhances the rich flavors of the bread, making every bite indulgent.
- Coffee or Tea: The warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee or a soothing cup of tea adds a cozy touch, perfect for those chilly mornings.
- Citrusy Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring oranges and apples brightens the plate with zesty notes, balancing the tartness of the cranberries.
- Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy, nutty granola over a slice to add texture and a hint of sweetness, taking your breakfast to the next level.
- Cheese Platter: Serve with a selection of mild cheeses like Brie or cream cheese to contrast the tart cranberries with creamy richness.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup provides a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the tang of the cranberries.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider served alongside your cranberry bread creates a heartwarming pairing that evokes holiday cheer.
- Light Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and adds a touch of brightness to your meal.
- Chocolate Dessert: End on a sweet note by pairing with chocolate truffles or mousse, presenting a delightful balance to the tart cranberry flavors.
Cranberry Bread Variations
Customize your cranberry bread with these delightful twists and substitutions that will ignite your creativity in the kitchen!
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a totally inclusive treat that everyone can enjoy.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an irresistible crunch and a boost of healthy fats. These add depth to each bite and pair beautifully with the tart cranberries.
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest into the batter for a bright, refreshing flavor that complements the sweet and tart profile. It brings a vibrant twist to this classic holiday recipe.
- Reduced Sugar: Use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of sugar to cut back on refined sugars while still maintaining delicious flavor. Just remember to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly to maintain texture.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly option without sacrificing taste. This subtly enriches the flavor and keeps the bread moist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor that ignites the holiday spirit. These spices work wonders in creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere as the bread bakes.
- Berry Medley: Mix in a combination of fresh blueberries or raspberries along with cranberries for a unique berry-packed bread bursting with juicy flavors. This boosts the fruitiness while adding a delightful splash of color.
- Chocolaty Delight: Fold in mini dark chocolate chips for an indulgent twist that transforms your cranberry bread into a decadent dessert. The melty chocolate complements the tartness beautifully!
These variations will help you craft the perfect cranberry bread that resonates with your family’s preferences, making your holiday baking even more special!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Bread
Room Temperature: Store your cranberry bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Fridge: If you want to extend its life, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week, wrapped well to avoid drying out.
Freezer: This delightful bread freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy at its best, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes for that freshly-baked warmth.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cranberry Bread
• Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine the ingredients to prevent a dense texture. Overmixing can kill the lightness of your cranberry bread.
• Flour the Cranberries: Toss cranberries in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps them stay suspended rather than sinking to the bottom.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for smooth mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to lumpy batter and uneven rising.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This ensures clean, beautiful slices and allows flavors to develop fully.
• Streusel Consistency: When making the topping, ensure the butter is cold and cut into small pieces to achieve a crunchy streusel over your lovely cranberry bread.
Classic Christmas Cranberry Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
For the best results, always opt for fresh cranberries in your Classic Christmas Cranberry Bread. They offer wonderful tartness and moisture that dried cranberries simply can’t match. If fresh ones are not available, you can use frozen cranberries, just remember not to thaw them before adding to the batter!
How should I store cranberry bread?
To keep your cranberry bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. At room temperature, it will stay moist for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator where it can last up to a week, well-wrapped to avoid dryness.
Can I freeze the cranberry bread?
Absolutely! This cranberry bread freezes wonderfully. To do so, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes for a warm slice!
Why did my cranberry bread sink in the middle?
If your cranberry bread sinks in the middle, it may be due to overmixing the batter. When adding the flour, mix gently to retain air and prevent a dense loaf. Another tip is to toss your cranberries in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps them stay suspended instead of sinking to the bottom while baking.
Are there any dietary considerations?
Yes, if you’re considering dietary restrictions, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, be cautious with the extracts—opt for pure vanilla and almond extracts to avoid potential allergens. Always check labels to ensure that no unwanted ingredients come into play if you’re serving someone with food sensitivities.
How can I enhance the flavor of my cranberry bread?
If you’d like to add a delightful twist to your cranberry bread, consider incorporating zest from an orange for a refreshing, citrusy note. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. Another option is to replace almond extract with more vanilla for a different flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the cranberries’ tartness.
Deliciously Tart Cranberry Bread: A Holiday Must-Bake!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two loaf pans by greasing and flouring them.
- Roughly chop your fresh cranberries and set them aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together on medium-high speed for about 5 minutes until pale and fluffy.
- Gradually add the softened butter to the mixture and mix until smooth, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture just until combined without overmixing.
- Gently fold in the chopped cranberries.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans.
- In a small bowl, mix together the cold butter, brown sugar, and a touch of flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- Cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.