Cranberry Bread Recipe With Dried Cranberries

Are you looking for a delicious and simple recipe that will satisfy your craving for something sweet and tangy? Look no further than this Cranberry Bread Recipe With Dried Cranberries. Bursting with the vibrant flavor of dried cranberries, this bread is a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or any time of the day. With its moist and tender crumb, it’s bound to become a favorite among your family and friends. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress with this delightful cranberry bread recipe.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

To make cranberry bread with dried cranberries, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2/3 cup orange juice
1/2 cup sour cream
2 large eggs

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This will prevent the cranberry bread from sticking to the pan and make it easier to remove once it’s done baking.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mixture is the base of the bread and provides structure and flavor.
Stir in the dried cranberries until they are well coated with the flour mixture. This ensures that the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the bread.
In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, orange juice, sour cream, and eggs. This wet mixture will add moisture and richness to the bread.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense bread. It’s okay to have a few lumps of flour.
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly. The batter should fill the pan about two-thirds full.
Bake the cranberry bread for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This ensures that the bread is fully cooked.
Allow the cranberry bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This allows the bread to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan.
Once cooled, transfer the cranberry bread to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent the bread from becoming soggy on the bottom.

Variations

Looking to add some extra flair to your cranberry bread? Here are some variations you can try:

Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. The nuts will give your bread a delightful texture and nutty taste.
Sprinkle the top of the bread with turbinado sugar before baking for a sweet, caramelized crust. This adds a sugary crunch and enhances the visual appeal of the bread.
Replace the orange juice with cranberry juice for a stronger cranberry flavor. This substitution allows the cranberry flavor to shine through.
Add a teaspoon of orange zest for extra citrusy goodness. The zest adds a fragrant and tangy element to the bread.
Mix in 1/2 cup white chocolate chips for a delightful twist. The addition of white chocolate chips adds a creamy and sweet contrast to the tartness of the cranberries.

Serving and Storage

Now that your cranberry bread is ready, it’s time to enjoy and store it properly:

Serve the cranberry bread sliced and spread with butter or cream cheese. The creamy and tangy accompaniments complement the sweet and tart flavors of the bread.
The cranberry bread can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Both options offer a delicious treat.
If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will keep the bread fresh for a longer period.
For longer storage, wrap the cranberry bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Freezing the bread will preserve its freshness and allow you to enjoy it at a later time.

Tips

To make the best cranberry bread, here are some helpful tips:

Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure a moist bread. Overmixing can cause the gluten in the flour to develop, resulting in a denser texture.
If using frozen cranberries, it’s important to thaw and pat them dry before incorporating them into the recipe. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the texture of the bread.
Feel free to use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries, adjusting the sweetness to taste. Fresh cranberries will add a burst of tartness to the bread.
Experiment with different citrus juices like lemon or grapefruit for unique flavor variations. Each citrus juice will bring its own distinct taste to the bread.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spices. These spices complement the cranberries and give the bread a cozy and aromatic touch.

Health Benefits

In addition to being delicious, cranberry bread also offers several health benefits:

Cranberries are known for their high content of antioxidants. These antioxidants help protect the body’s cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals.
They are also a good source of vitamins C, E, and K. These vitamins play essential roles in supporting the immune system, promoting healthy skin, and aiding blood clotting.
Cranberries are believed to support a healthy urinary tract. They contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which help prevent bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract lining.
Dried cranberries provide dietary fiber and are a nutritious snack on their own. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness.

Occasions

Cranberry bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed on various occasions:

It is perfect for holiday gatherings and Thanksgiving dinner. The festive flavors and warm aroma of cranberry bread make it a delightful addition to any holiday table.
Cranberry bread can also be enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack. Its sweet and tart flavors provide a comforting and energizing boost.
Share cranberry bread as a homemade gift during festive seasons or potluck parties. Its homemade charm and delicious taste will surely impress everyone.

Accompaniments

To enhance your cranberry bread experience, consider these accompaniments:

Cranberry bread pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee. The warmth of these beverages complements the bread’s flavors and creates a cozy combination.
Serve cranberry bread alongside a cheese platter for a unique flavor combination. The salty and savory notes of the cheese contrast beautifully with the sweet and tart cranberry bread.
For a decadent dessert, enjoy cranberry bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy and cool accompaniments balance the richness of the bread.

Special Dietary Considerations

Here are some modifications you can make to accommodate special dietary needs:

To make the cranberry bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This allows individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease to enjoy the bread.
For a dairy-free option, replace the sour cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or almond yogurt. This ensures those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies can still indulge in the bread.
If you follow a vegan diet, use plant-based butter and substitute the eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes. These modifications make the bread suitable for vegans while maintaining its deliciousness.

History

Cranberries have a long history and have been enjoyed for centuries:

Native Americans used cranberries for various purposes, including food, medicine, and dyes. They would mix cranberries with animal fat and dried meat to create a survival food called pemmican.
Native Americans introduced cranberries to European settlers, who quickly incorporated them into their diets and traditional recipes. Cranberries became popular ingredients in sauces, desserts, and bread, like cranberry bread.
Cranberry bread gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century. It became a beloved traditional dessert, especially during the holiday season.
Today, cranberry bread continues to be a cherished treat, evoking a sense of nostalgia and holiday spirit. Its sweet and tart flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for all generations.