Cranberry Cream Cheese Swirl Bread is the kind of bake that feels like a warm hug wrapped in a golden crust. With a tender, moist crumb and a luscious swirl of tangy cream cheese running through the center, this loaf is studded with tart cranberries that burst with flavor in every bite. It’s sweet but balanced, rich but not heavy—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with tea.
The bread itself is made from a simple batter enriched with butter, eggs, and yogurt or sour cream for extra moisture. The cream cheese filling adds a cheesecake-like richness, while the cranberries bring brightness and a festive pop of color. Baked until golden and slightly crackled on top, the loaf slices beautifully and keeps well for days—if it lasts that long.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy weekend, or just to fill your kitchen with the scent of something wonderful, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every slice.
🧺 INGREDIENTS: (Yields 1 loaf)
For the Bread Batter:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (if frozen, do not thaw)
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 200g cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Bread Batter
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Stir in vanilla. Mix in yogurt and milk until smooth. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in cranberries.
Step 3: Layer the Loaf
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter and gently swirl with a knife. Top with remaining batter and smooth the surface.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Slice & Serve
Slice thickly and serve as-is or lightly toasted with butter. Pairs beautifully with coffee, chai, or a dollop of whipped cream.
🍽️ Tips & Variations:
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for crunch.
- Citrus Boost: Stir in orange zest for a bright, festive note.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer.
- Mini Loaves: Divide batter into smaller pans for gifting.
