Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf

Ingredients

Unsalted butter – ½ cup (1 stick), softened

Cream cheese – 4 oz, softened

Granulated sugar – 1 cup

Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Large eggs – 2

All-purpose flour – 1 ¾ cups

Baking powder – 1 teaspoon

Salt – ½ teaspoon

Cranberries – 1 ½ cups, fresh or frozen

Optional: Chopped pecans – ½ cup

Prepare oven and pan:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour a standard loaf pan, then set aside.

Cream butter and cream cheese:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together with a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.

Add sugar and vanilla:

Gradually beat in the sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Incorporate eggs:

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully blended.

Mix dry ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined.

Do not overmix.

Fold in cranberries and nuts:

Using a spatula, gently fold in the cranberries and pecans (if using), distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Bake:

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.

Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve:

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and enjoy as is, or finish with glaze or frosting if desired.

Vanilla or Lemon Glaze: Add a drizzle of simple glaze over the cooled loaf for a touch of sweetness and shine.

Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a thick layer of tangy cream cheese frosting on top for a rich, bakery-style finish.

Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans for an allergen-friendly version that still tastes just as delicious.

Seasonal Fruit Twist: Swap the cranberries with raspberries, blueberries, or even chopped cherries to match the season or your taste preference.

Festive Touch: Dust the loaf with powdered sugar before serving for a simple yet elegant holiday presentation.