How to Make It

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
2. Cream base: Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla; beat until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs: Mix in eggs one at a time.
4. Dry mix: In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Add gradually to wet mixture.
5. Fold: Gently stir in cranberries and pecans.
6. Bake: Spread batter in pan; bake 60–70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and tender texture thanks to cream cheese.
• Holiday-friendly with cranberries adding a festive touch.
• Family-friendly baking recipe that kids and adults enjoy.
• Versatile – serve as breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Tips for Success

• Toss cranberries in a tablespoon of flour before folding in to prevent sinking.
• Use full-fat cream cheese for best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter—keep it light and airy.
• Check loaf at 55 minutes; ovens vary.

Variations

• Glazed Loaf: Drizzle with lemon glaze for extra sweetness.
• Frosted Version: Add cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert.
• Nut-Free: Skip the pecans for a smooth loaf.
• Berry Swap: Try blueberries, raspberries, or chopped cherries.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce sugar slightly since dried cranberries are sweeter.

2. Can I freeze the loaf?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

3. Should I thaw frozen cranberries first?
No, use them straight from the freezer to avoid excess moisture.

4. Can I make muffins with this batter?
Yes—bake 20–25 minutes at 350°F.

5. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
Greek yogurt or sour cream works as a substitute.

6. How do I prevent overbaking?
Test with a toothpick at 55 minutes; remove once it comes out mostly clean.

7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use two loaf pans.

8. What’s the best way to serve it?
Warm with butter, cream cheese spread, or a drizzle of honey.

9. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

10. Is this good for holiday gifts?
Definitely—wrap in parchment and festive ribbon for gifting.

Health Benefits

• Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Pecans (if used) add healthy fats and protein.
• Homemade baking means no preservatives or artificial additives.

How to Serve

• Toasted with butter for breakfast.
• Sliced with coffee or tea as an afternoon pick-me-up.
• As dessert with whipped cream or glaze.

Make Ahead & Storage

• Make Ahead: Bake, cool, and wrap tightly; flavors deepen overnight.
• Storage: Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer-Friendly: Wrap in plastic and foil, freeze up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf is a cozy, comforting bake that combines the tang of cranberries with the creamy richness of cream cheese. It’s versatile enough for breakfast, snack, or dessert, and it makes a beautiful homemade gift during the holidays. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself baking it again and again—it’s the kind of recipe that turns ordinary moments into warm memories.