Moist Cranberry Nut Bread

Cranberry Nut Bread is a moist, tender loaf bursting with tart cranberries and crunchy nuts. This quick bread is perfect for cozy breakfasts, holiday brunches, or a sweet snack anytime. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family and friends. Whether served warm with butter or sliced for gifting, this bread brings festive charm to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and tender with a perfect balance of tart cranberries and crunchy nuts
• Quick bread recipe, no yeast or long rising time
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or snack time
• Can be made ahead and freezes well
• Festive and visually appealing for holiday tables
• Easily customizable with different nuts or dried fruits

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon (optional)
• Eggs
• Milk or buttermilk
• Vegetable oil or melted butter
• Fresh or frozen cranberries
• Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• Vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together eggs, milk, oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in cranberries and chopped nuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• Use half brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Swap nuts for chocolate chips or a combination of dried fruits.
• For a lighter version, use applesauce in place of some of the oil.
• Add orange zest for a citrusy twist.
• Toast nuts lightly before adding for extra crunch.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil; lasts up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Slice and freeze in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve warm with butter or cream cheese for breakfast.
• Slice and toast for a quick snack.
• Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
• Add a drizzle of glaze or honey for extra sweetness.
• Garnish with extra nuts or powdered sugar for festive presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes! Frozen cranberries work perfectly. Just do not thaw before mixing to avoid bleeding into the batter.

How long does this bread stay fresh?

At room temperature, it lasts 3 days. Refrigerated, it keeps up to a week, and frozen, up to 3 months.

Can I make it nut-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the nuts or replace with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Can I add other fruits or flavors?

Yes! Orange zest, dried cherries, or chocolate chips can easily be added for variation.

Ready to Make It?

This Cranberry Nut Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for breakfasts, brunches, or a cozy snack. Quick to make and bursting with festive flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

You Might Also Like

• Cherry Almond Bread – Sweet and nutty loaf with almond flavor and tart cherries.
• Banana Bread – Moist and tender classic banana bread everyone loves.
• Meyer Lemon Meltaways – Soft, zesty cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Brown Sugar Butter Cookies – Simple, buttery cookies perfect for gifting or snacking.

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