Cranberry Cream Cheese Bread is a festive, indulgent loaf that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the richness of cream cheese, all baked into a golden-brown crust. This bread is soft, moist, and slightly tangy, with bursts of cranberry flavor balanced by the creamy filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings, weekend brunches, or cozy evenings, it’s a recipe that feels both comforting and elegant. The bread not only looks beautiful when sliced—revealing its jewel-like cranberries and creamy swirls—but also delivers a flavor that is irresistible.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
INSTRUCTION:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Mix in sour cream until smooth. Gradually add dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in cranberries gently.
- For the filling, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour half of the bread batter into the loaf pan. Spread cream cheese filling evenly over it. Top with remaining batter.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
SERVINGS: Makes 1 loaf, about 8–10 slices.
NOTE:
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for a smooth filling.
- Fresh cranberries give the best tart flavor, but frozen can be used.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese filling.
- Serve slightly warm for the most luscious texture.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Bread is a recipe that embodies the joy of seasonal baking. With its vibrant cranberries and creamy filling, it is both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying. This bread is versatile enough to serve at holiday feasts yet simple enough to enjoy as a weekday treat.
The Role of Each Ingredient
The cranberries are the star, providing tart bursts that balance the sweetness of the bread. Their ruby-red color makes the loaf visually appealing. Cream cheese adds richness and a velvety texture, creating a delightful contrast to the fluffy bread. Butter and sugar form the base, ensuring a tender crumb, while sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang. The flour, baking powder, and baking soda provide structure and lift, ensuring the bread rises beautifully.
Preparation and Technique
The technique involves layering: half the batter is poured into the pan, followed by the cream cheese filling, then topped with the remaining batter. This creates a beautiful swirl when sliced. Folding cranberries gently into the batter prevents them from bursting prematurely, ensuring they remain whole and vibrant after baking.
Flavor and Texture
The bread is moist and tender, with a golden crust that gives way to a soft interior. Each slice reveals tart cranberries and creamy filling, offering a balance of flavors—sweet, tangy, and rich. The cream cheese layer adds a luxurious texture, making the bread feel indulgent without being overly heavy.
Occasions and Serving Ideas
Cranberry Cream Cheese Bread is perfect for festive occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s brunch. It can be served as a breakfast loaf, a dessert, or even as a snack with coffee or tea. Its elegant appearance makes it suitable for gifting, especially when wrapped in parchment and tied with ribbon.
Practical Tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients for smooth mixing.
- If cranberries are very tart, toss them lightly in sugar before folding into the batter.
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing to prevent the filling from smearing.
- For added flair, drizzle a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled loaf.
Final Thought
Cranberry Cream Cheese Bread is more than just a baked good—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. The tart cranberries, creamy filling, and golden crust come together to create a loaf that is both comforting and festive. Whether enjoyed at a holiday table or as a quiet treat at home, this bread captures the essence of seasonal baking: warmth, joy, and indulgence.