Cream Cheese Cranberry Bread
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup softened butter
8 ounces softened cream cheese
1.5 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 eggs
1.5 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup optionally chopped pecans
Instructions:
Warm up your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9×5-inch loaf pans by greasing them.
In a bowl, cream butter, cream cheese, and sugar until it achieves a fluffy consistency.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Incorporate eggs, one at a time, ensuring a smooth blend after each addition.
In a different bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
Slowly integrate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Delicately fold in the cranberries and optional pecans.
Evenly distribute the batter between your prepped pans.
Bake for 45-65 minutes. A toothpick, when inserted, should come out clean.
Let it cool in pans for about 10-15 minutes, then move to a cooling rack.
Enjoy this sumptuous Cream Cheese Cranberry Bread in its pure form or enhance it with your desired accompaniments. A sure-shot crowd-pleaser, especially during the festive days!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe.
Just make sure to thaw the frozen cranberries before using them and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
What does creaming the butter, cream cheese, and sugar do?
Creaming these ingredients together incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter and fluffier texture in the final bread.
Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese or butter for a lighter version?
While you can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese or butter, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and flavor of the bread slightly.
What can I use if I don’t have pecans?
If you don’t have pecans or prefer not to use them, you can omit them entirely or substitute with another type of nut, such as walnuts or almonds.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done baking when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around the 45-minute mark.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this bread ahead of time. It can be stored at room temperature for a day or two, or you can freeze it for longer storage.
Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Is this bread suitable for people with nut allergies?
You can omit the pecans entirely to make the bread nut-free and safe for individuals with nut allergies.
Can I add other ingredients, like orange zest or cinnamon, for extra flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding ingredients like orange zest, cinnamon, or even white chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover bread should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
It can be kept at room temperature for a day or two or stored in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Can I serve this bread warm or toasted?
Yes, this bread is delicious served warm or toasted with a spread of butter or cream cheese.
Heating it slightly in the oven or toaster oven can revive its freshness and enhance its flavor.