Cranberry Cream Cheese Loaf

Introduction

Some recipes bring together the perfect harmony of sweet, tart, and creamy, creating a dessert that is both beautiful and indulgent. This Cranberry Cream Cheese Loaf is exactly that. With its tender crumb, bursts of tangy cranberries, and a rich cream cheese filling running through the center, it is a show-stopping bread that feels festive and luxurious. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family brunches, or as a homemade gift, this loaf elevates traditional cranberry bread into something truly special.

Ingredients

For the Bread Batter:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)

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• 1 ½ cups fresh or dried cranberries (if using dried, soak in warm water for 10 minutes and drain)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Optional Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
   In a bowl, beat cream cheese with sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

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3. Prepare the Bread Batter

   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

   • Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

   • Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with sour cream, mixing just until combined.

   • Fold in cranberries gently.

4. Assemble the Loaf

   • Spread half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan.

   • Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter.

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   • Top with the remaining bread batter and spread evenly.

5. Bake
   Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the bread (avoiding the cream cheese layer) comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil during the last 15 minutes.

6. Cool and Glaze
   Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. If desired, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make a glaze, then drizzle over the cooled loaf.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Cream Cheese Loaf is not just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece of flavor and beauty. The tart cranberries brighten the sweet, moist bread, while the creamy filling adds indulgence to every slice. Perfect for festive occasions, afternoon tea, or gifting to loved ones, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your collection. Serve it slightly warm for a comforting treat or chilled for a denser, cheesecake-like texture. Either way, it’s an unforgettable loaf that celebrates the joy of baking and sharing.