cranberry loaf

Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Cranberry Loaf

• 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the loaf and balances the tart cranberries while helping create a soft, tender crumb.
• 3 eggs, room temperature: Add moisture, structure, and richness, ensuring the batter blends smoothly for a uniform texture.
• ¾ cup butter, room temperature: Provides deep flavor and contributes to the loaf’s moist, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the aroma and adds warm, classic sweetness to every slice.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: Gives the loaf structure and stability while keeping the crumb soft.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the loaf rises tall and fluffy.
• 1 cup milk: Adds moisture, helps dissolve sugar, and creates a silky, rich batter.
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: The star of the loaf—providing juicy pops of tartness and stunning color throughout.

Step-By-Step Instructions for Perfect Cranberry Loaf

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan for easy removal.
2. Cream the butter and sugar together for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy. This step creates air pockets essential for a tender texture.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, salt, and baking powder.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter.
6. Fold in the cranberries. If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw—this prevents color bleeding.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 60–70 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the loaf in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Why This Cranberry Loaf Is Loved

This recipe earns rave reviews for its incredible moisture, bright cranberry flavor, and perfect sweetness.
Unlike many cranberry breads that lean dry, this loaf stays soft for days thanks to its balanced fat-to-flour ratio.
It’s also beautifully versatile—ideal for holidays, brunch gatherings, gifting, or enjoying with a warm cup of coffee.

Pro Tips for Baking the BEST Cranberry Loaf

• Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and even texture.
• Dust cranberries with 1 tbsp flour before folding to prevent them from sinking.
• Do not overmix once the flour is added—this keeps the crumb soft.
• Add orange zest for an extra burst of freshness (optional but amazing).
• Let it cool fully before slicing to avoid crumbling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cranberry loaf:

• With a warm cup of coffee or tea
• Toasted with a smear of butter
• With whipped cream or cream cheese frosting
• Alongside a savory breakfast spread
• As a festive dessert topped with powdered sugar

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Loaf is the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence.
With its moist crumb, vibrant cranberries, and irresistible flavor, it’s a recipe that outshines the rest—not only delicious but easy enough for any home baker.
Make it once, and it will instantly become a family favorite for holidays and everyday comfort baking.