Homemade Cranberry Bread
There’s something magical about fruit breads that makes them an irresistible treat any time of year. While classics like banana bread are always a favorite, my heart belongs to the lesser-known gem of the holiday season: cranberry bread. If you’re seeking a unique addition to your holiday table or a festive snack, look no further. This family recipe has been loved through generations, and for good reason!
My Mom’s Cranberry Bread Recipe
Cranberries can be quite polarizing with their tartness, but my mom’s cranberry bread turns even the biggest skeptics into fans. A staple in our household for as long as I can remember, this recipe has been passed down through the years. My mom started making it in high school, and now it’s a holiday tradition that’s loved by friends and family alike. It’s not unusual for her to whip up multiple loaves, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.
The Secret Behind My Mom’s Cranberry Bread
What makes my mom’s version stand out is a simple trick: she blends the cranberries before adding them to the batter. This technique softens their tartness and results in a perfectly moist loaf with a hint of orange zest. The final product is a delightful balance of tangy and sweet, wrapping you in the warmth of the holiday spirit.
How To Make the Best Cranberry Bread
Here’s how you can recreate this family favorite at home:
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh cranberries | 1 ½ cups whole / ½ cup blended |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 ½ tsp |
| Baking soda | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Orange juice | ½ cup |
| Vegetable oil | ½ cup |
| Orange zest | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Prepare Cranberries: Blend cranberries in a food processor until chopped to the size of a grain of rice; set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, orange juice, oil, and orange zest.
- Combine Everything: Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold in the blended cranberries until just combined.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
This cranberry bread not only enhances your holiday spread but is sure to leave your friends and family asking for more! Don’t be surprised if it becomes a new tradition in your home—it’s that good!