Some recipes instantly bring comfort to the kitchen — and this Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is one of those magical bakes. It’s soft, moist, and full of flavor, with just the right balance of tangy cream cheese and tart cranberries. The buttery base melts in your mouth, while a touch of vanilla and a sprinkle of sweetness make every bite irresistible. Add a handful of crunchy pecans if you like a little texture, and you’ve got the perfect loaf for cozy mornings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you need a comforting treat.
This is a quick bread recipe — no yeast, no waiting for dough to rise, and no complicated steps. Just mix, bake, and enjoy. The cream cheese keeps it wonderfully tender for days, and the cranberries add that bright, festive pop that makes this loaf stand out on any table, especially during the holidays.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (half a standard block)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups cranberries, fresh or frozen
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Tip: If using frozen cranberries, don’t thaw them before mixing. Keeping them frozen helps prevent the berries from bleeding too much color into the batter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan and lightly flour it, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer until smooth, creamy, and lump-free. This step gives your loaf its soft, velvety texture.
3. Add Sugar and Vanilla
Gradually add the sugar while mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Blend in the vanilla extract for that warm, sweet aroma.
4. Add the Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This creates a stable, silky batter that bakes evenly.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix — it can make the loaf dense instead of light and tender.
6. Fold in the Cranberries and Pecans
Using a spatula, gently fold in the cranberries and pecans (if using). Mix just enough to spread them evenly throughout the batter without crushing the fruit.
7. Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy it plain, with a light glaze, or spread with butter or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
Variations and Serving Ideas
- Simple Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla or lemon juice. Drizzle over the cooled loaf for a sweet finish.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Want a decadent version? Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting and top with extra cranberries for a bakery-style look.
- Nut-Free Version: Skip the pecans for a simple, smooth loaf that’s still full of flavor.
- Fruit Swaps: Try raspberries, blueberries, or chopped cherries instead of cranberries for a fun seasonal twist.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
- The cream cheese adds rich flavor and locks in moisture, keeping the loaf tender for days.
- Tart cranberries balance the sweetness and give every bite a fresh burst of flavor.
- The classic creaming method ensures a perfect crumb — soft, fluffy, and not too heavy.
- It’s versatile: enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a festive holiday dessert.
This Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is more than just a quick bread — it’s a little slice of homemade joy. Whether you bake it for family, friends, or yourself, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and warmth to every bite.
Note: All images used in this article are AI-generated and intended for illustrative purposes only.
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