Introduction

This Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is a delightful combination of tangy cranberries and creamy, rich cream cheese swirled into a moist, tender loaf. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack with your coffee or tea, it’s a festive treat that’s simple to make yet impressively delicious.

Ingredients

For the loaf:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

For the cream cheese filling:

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

Optional topping:

• 2 tbsp coarse sugar or powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and sour cream.
5. Make the batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in cranberries.
6. Layer the loaf: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter. Top with remaining batter.
7. Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Optional topping: Dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle coarse sugar before serving.

Description

This loaf features a moist, tender crumb with bursts of tart cranberries balanced by a rich, sweet cream cheese swirl. The contrast of textures and flavors makes each bite a delightful experience—perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday indulgence.

Tips

• Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal, but frozen ones work well too. If using frozen, do not thaw to avoid excess moisture.
• Swirling: Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter for a marbled effect.
• Storage: Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: Slice and freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Corrections / Common Mistakes

• Overmixing the batter: Can lead to a dense loaf. Mix until just combined.
• Cream cheese filling too thick or lumpy: Make sure the cream cheese is softened and well-whipped for a smooth swirl.
• Cranberries sinking: Toss cranberries in a little flour before folding into the batter to prevent sinking to the bottom.

Enjoy!

Serve warm or at room temperature with coffee, tea, or a drizzle of honey for a truly indulgent treat. Each slice offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy that’s sure to satisfy any craving!