Looking for a loaf that’s moist, flavorful, and bursting with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy? This Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is a showstopper. Soft, tender bread swirled with creamy cheesecake filling and dotted with tart cranberries, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack anytime. Don’t lose this recipe—you’ll want to make it again and again! 😍
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- For the cream cheese filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Loaf Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla and sour cream. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in cranberries.
Step 4: Layer the Loaf
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Spoon the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining batter, spreading gently.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy plain, or spread with a little butter or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
Tips & Variations
- Make it festive: Add orange zest to the batter for a holiday twist.
- Nuts for crunch: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Frozen cranberries: No need to thaw—just toss in a little flour to prevent sinking.
- Mini loaves: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
This Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is tender, creamy, and full of tart-sweet flavor—a perfect treat for any occasion. 🍒🍞✨
