If you’re searching for a delightful, festive treat to brighten your holiday season, this Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with the tartness of fresh cranberries and the warm citrus notes of orange, this loaf perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. It’s moist, tender, and packed with a comforting spiced aroma that fills your kitchen with the spirit of Christmas the moment it bakes. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or serving it as a charming breakfast or dessert, this loaf is sure to become a cherished holiday favorite in your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe comes together easily with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a special role in the flavor, texture, and festive look of the loaf. From the tangy cranberries to the aromatic orange zest, every component adds a unique touch that makes this loaf so irresistible.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups / 250g): Creates the perfect tender crumb for the loaf’s structure.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup / 200g): Adds sweetness and helps with browning during baking.
- Baking powder (1 ½ teaspoons): Gives the loaf a light and fluffy rise.
- Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Works with the acidic orange juice to help the loaf rise beautifully.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors and balances sweetness.
- Orange juice (½ cup / 120ml): Provides moisture and bright citrus flavor that makes the loaf festive.
- Milk (½ cup / 120ml): Keeps the texture soft and rich.
- Large egg (1): Binds ingredients and adds a bit of richness.
- Vegetable oil or melted butter (¼ cup / 60ml): Ensures moistness and tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds depth of flavor and warmth.
- Orange zest (1 tablespoon, optional): Boosts the fresh citrus aroma for extra holiday cheer.
- Fresh or frozen cranberries (1 ½ cups / 150g): The star of the loaf, offering tart bursts throughout.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (½ cup / 60g, optional): Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup / 120g): Used for a sweet, glossy glaze.
- Additional orange juice (2-3 tablespoons): Mixed with powdered sugar for the glaze to enhance the citrus theme.
How to Make Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it thoroughly, and if you want extra ease in removing the loaf, line the pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients will give your loaf its structure and provide a balanced lift when baked.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the orange juice, milk, egg, and vegetable oil or melted butter, along with the vanilla extract. If you’re using orange zest, now’s the time to add it. These ingredients keep the loaf moist and infuse it with bright, festive flavors.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture gradually into the dry ingredients and stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep the loaf tender rather than dense.
Step 5: Add Cranberries and Nuts
Fold in the fresh or thawed cranberries and chopped nuts, if using. These add beautiful pops of color and texture that make every bite exciting and festive.
Step 6: Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on that golden crust.
Step 7: Cool the Loaf
Once baked, let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows the crumb to set firmly so slicing is easier.
Step 8: Optional Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth, then drizzle it over the cooled loaf. This glaze adds a glossy, sweet finish with a burst of citrus that makes this Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar lightly on top or add a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary or mint. These simple garnishes add charm and a burst of color, making it perfect for holiday tables.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs beautifully with warm beverages like spiced tea, freshly brewed coffee, or a cozy hot cocoa. For a holiday brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a creamy cheese platter to balance sweet and savory flavors elegantly.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the loaf thick and serve on a festive platter lined with holly leaves or Christmas-themed napkins. You could also cut into mini loaf slices and serve as individual treats at a holiday party—everyone loves a bite-size celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for 2 to 3 days or up to a week if refrigerated. This ensures you can enjoy the flavors even after the holidays.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this loaf freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil, or place slices in a sealed freezer bag. Frozen cranberry loaf keeps for up to 3 months and defrosts quickly overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This reawakens the soft texture and buttery flavor, making it taste freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, you can swap in dried cranberries if fresh or frozen aren’t available. Keep in mind the texture will be chewier and the loaf slightly less tart, so you might reduce the sugar just a bit if you prefer.
What if I don’t have orange juice or zest?
The orange flavor is a key part of this Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe, but you can substitute with lemon juice and zest for a different citrus twist. Plain milk will work, but the final loaf won’t have that distinctive bright note.
Are the nuts necessary?
The nuts add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor, but they’re totally optional. Feel free to leave them out to make this loaf nut-free or to suit personal preferences.
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
You can try replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. For best results, make sure your blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to keep the loaf tender and moist.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your loaf is perfectly baked. Avoid opening the oven door too often while baking to maintain steady heat.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe brings an incredible combination of festive flavors and comforting textures that will fill your home with holiday warmth. Easy to make yet full of character, it’s the kind of baking that feels like giving and sharing love. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every joyful bite with your family and friends!
Print
Christmas Cranberry Loaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This festive Christmas Cranberry Loaf is a moist and flavorful quick bread bursting with tart cranberries and a hint of orange zest. Perfect for holiday breakfasts or as a sweet snack, this loaf combines the tartness of fresh or frozen cranberries with the crunch of nuts and a delicate orange glaze. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, it’s a delightful seasonal treat for gatherings or cozy mornings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup (120ml) orange juice
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups (150g) fresh or frozen cranberries (if using frozen, thaw and drain)
- ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Glaze
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper if desired to ensure easy removal of the loaf after baking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined, ensuring even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the orange juice, milk, egg, vegetable oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract. Add the orange zest if using to enhance the citrus flavor of the loaf.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf.
- Add Cranberries and Nuts: Fold in the fresh or thawed cranberries and chopped walnuts or pecans if using. Incorporate these ingredients evenly throughout the batter without breaking them up too much.
- Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the loaf is cooked through.
- Cool: Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely to prevent sogginess and allow it to set properly.
- Optional Glaze: While the loaf cools, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf, adding a sweet citrus finish.
- Serve: Slice the loaf and enjoy as a festive holiday treat, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
Notes
- If using frozen cranberries, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Chopped nuts are optional but add a nice crunch; pecans or walnuts work best.
- The orange zest and glaze enhance the citrus flavor but can be omitted if desired.
- Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
