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If using fresh cranberries, rinse them well and chop them roughly. If you’re using frozen cranberries, thaw them and drain excess moisture. You can also dust the cranberries lightly with flour (about a tablespoon) before folding them into the batter. This helps to prevent them from sinking to the bottom while baking.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This may take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
Add the granulated sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk (or milk with lemon juice). Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix the batter.
Gently fold the chopped cranberries and any nuts into the batter. The fresh cranberries will add little pockets of tartness throughout the loaf, while the nuts (if included) provide a lovely crunch.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. The top of the loaf should be golden brown, and the loaf should feel firm to the touch.
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help prevent the loaf from becoming soggy.
If you’d like to add a sweet finishing touch, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf for an extra burst of sweetness and a lovely glossy finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve it as Breakfast or Brunch: A slice of this Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it the perfect breakfast or brunch treat.
- Gift it: This loaf makes an amazing homemade gift for friends, family, or neighbors during the holiday season. Wrap it up in parchment paper or place it in a festive tin for an extra special touch.
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- Enjoy it as a Snack: Whether you’re having a mid-afternoon snack or need something to go with your evening tea, this loaf is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why It’s a Must-Try
This Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The rich, creamy texture from the cream cheese and butter, combined with the bright pop of fresh cranberries, makes each bite irresistible.
It’s also incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips or dried fruit. For those who enjoy a nutty crunch, the optional walnuts or pecans add a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the tangy cranberries.
Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply indulging in something sweet, this Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
Conclusion
This Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is a perfect combination of rich, creamy goodness and tart, fruity freshness. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just looking for a delicious treat to share with loved ones, this loaf has everything you need to make a lasting impression. Try it out today, and enjoy the delightful flavors and textures in every slice!
