Every autumn, my kitchen becomes a sanctuary where the season’s flavors come alive, especially cranberry bread. This recipe started years ago in a quaint New England town, where a local baker shared a slice of this comforting bread, symbolizing community and a love for simple food. Now, as I blend tart cranberries with sweet dough, I’m transported back to those moments of joy and belonging. Join me in savoring the simple pleasures of homemade cranberry bread, each slice a warm, loving embrace from my kitchen to yours.
Is Cranberry Bread Healthy?
Cranberry bread is more than just a treat; it’s a healthier alternative to many sweet breads. Packed with cranberries, known for their antioxidant properties, and using less butter and sugar than traditional recipes, it’s a guilt-free delight for those mindful of their health. The addition of orange juice and zest not only enhances the flavor but also adds a dose of vitamin C.
How Much Cranberry Should I Take?
For the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, this recipe calls for 1 ½ cups of cranberries. This quantity ensures each slice is peppered with these ruby red jewels, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
How to Store Cranberry Bread?
To keep your cranberry bread fresh and moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays good for up to 3 days. If you prefer a slightly crusty exterior, wrap it in parchment paper before placing it in the container.
Can Cranberry Bread Be Frozen?
Yes, cranberry bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the oven before serving
How to Prepare Cranberry Bread
Cranberry bread, a splendid fusion of tangy cranberries and sweet dough, brings a unique twist to your baking adventures. This recipe, inspired by generations and perfected over time, is not just about creating a loaf of bread but about crafting an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda
- ¼ cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest
- ¾ cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 ½ cups of golden raisins
- 1 ½ cups of fresh cranberries, coarsely chopped
Step by Step Directions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
Cut in the butter using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the beaten egg, orange zest, and orange juice until just combined.
Gently fold in the raisins and cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frequent Asked Questions:
What Variations Can I Make to Cranberry Bread?
You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, substitute dried cranberries for fresh ones for a different texture, or include spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used without thawing. They may extend the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes.
How Can I Make My Cranberry Bread More Moist?
To ensure your bread stays moist, don’t overmix the batter, and consider adding a tablespoon of yogurt or applesauce to the mix.
Is Cranberry Bread Suitable for Vegans?
To make vegan cranberry bread, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Can I Make Gluten-Free version?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free flour blend.
Why Did My Cranberry Bread Turn Out Dense?
Dense bread can result from overmixing the batter or not using enough leavening agents. Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh and measure ingredients accurately.
Can I Make Mini Cranberry Breads for Gifts?
Absolutely! Adjust the baking time accordingly and use mini loaf pans for delightful, gift-worthy mini cranberry breads.
How Can I Tell When Cranberry Bread Is Done Baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I Add Citrus Flavors to My Cranberry Bread?
Yes, adding orange or lemon zest and juice enhances the flavor and pairs beautifully with cranberries.
How Should I Serve Cranberry Bread?
Serve cranberry bread warm with a pat of butter, or toast slices for a delightful breakfast or snack. It’s also delicious with a drizzle of honey or cream cheese spread.
Cranberry Bread
Ingredients
- 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 egg beaten
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 3/4 cup orange juice
- 1 1/2 cups golden raisins
- 1 1/2 cups chopped cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray or grease one 9x5x3 inch loaf pan.
- Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and baking soda.
- Cut in butter until mixture is crumbly.
- Add egg, orange peel, and orange juice; stir to mix and fold in raisins and cranberries.
- Pour into loaf pan and bake for 70 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Remove from pan; cool on wire rack.
