Description
There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of tart cranberries and creamy cheese in this Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee, serving it as a festive holiday treat, or sharing it with loved ones, this loaf is a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors that everyone will adore.
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Ingredients
Scale
For the batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the loaf.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a nice rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Balances the acidity of the cranberries.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk: Keeps the loaf moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm flavor note.
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: The star ingredient, bringing tartness and color.
For the cream cheese filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy, tangy layer.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling.
- 1 large egg: Ensures a smooth, set filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For extra flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and lightly flour the loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk or buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Fold in the cranberries gently to avoid overmixing.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Loaf
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter, spreading it gently without mixing.
- Add the remaining batter on top, spreading to cover the cream cheese layer completely.
Step 5: Bake the Loaf
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the top browns too quickly, tent it with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve at room temperature or slightly warmed.
Notes
- Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: No need to thaw frozen cranberries; use them straight from the freezer.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep the loaf tender.
- Add a Streusel Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle a simple streusel topping made of butter, sugar, and flour before baking.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened for a smooth batter and filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Cuisine: American