Cream Cheese Cranberry Bread Recipe

Cream cheese cranberry bread is a moist, tangy, and slightly sweet quick bread that’s perfect for the holiday season or as a delightful treat any time of year. With bursts of tart cranberries and a ribbon of rich cream cheese, this bread makes a wonderful breakfast, snack, or dessert. Here’s how to make this delicious bread step by step.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional for added warmth)
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Equipment Needed:

• Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

• In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ¼ cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth.
• Add the egg and ½ tsp vanilla extract. Beat until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Bread Batter

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 cup of sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
• In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
• Fold in the chopped cranberries and nuts (if using).

Step 4: Assemble the Bread

• Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
• Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter and spread it evenly.
• Add the remaining bread batter on top of the cream cheese layer, spreading it to cover.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
• If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil halfway through baking.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Slice and serve at room temperature or slightly warm.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve slices plain or with a smear of butter or cream cheese. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Helpful Notes

• Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.
• Add-Ins: For extra flavor, try adding orange zest to the bread batter or a dash of almond extract to the cream cheese layer.
• Preventing Sticking: Use parchment paper with an overhang to easily lift the bread out of the pan once cooled.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Ina Garten: Recommends adding a touch of orange zest to the cream cheese filling for a citrusy twist.
• Martha Stewart: Suggests using freshly grated cinnamon for a warm and aromatic touch.
• Sally McKenney (Sally’s Baking Addiction): Advises folding the cranberries in gently to avoid breaking them and releasing too much juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, soak dried cranberries in warm water for 10 minutes and drain before adding them to the batter for extra moisture.

Q2: How can I make the bread less sweet?
Reduce the granulated sugar in the bread batter to ¾ cup if you prefer a less sweet result.

Q3: Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

Q4: What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
Place the cream cheese in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power, checking frequently until softened.

Q5: How do I prevent the bread from becoming dry?
Make sure not to overbake the bread and test for doneness with a toothpick at the 55-minute mark.

Q6: Can I skip the nuts?
Yes, the nuts are optional and can be left out if preferred or substituted with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch.

Q7: What other fruits can I use?
Try substituting cranberries with blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries for a different flavor.

Q8: Can I add a glaze on top?
Yes, a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk drizzled on top adds extra sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Q9: Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Q10: How do I ensure the cream cheese layer stays centered?
Make sure the first layer of batter is spread evenly and the cream cheese layer isn’t too close to the edges.

Enjoy this moist and flavorful cream cheese cranberry bread, perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a cozy, sweet treat!