Dear Lykkers, would you love to bake a golden loaf filled with bright red cranberries? Cranberry bread is a simple quick bread with a tender, cake-like texture and a refreshing balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Butter adds richness, vanilla brings a warm aroma, and juicy berries brighten every slice. It is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or sharing with family and friends. Because we use baking powder instead of yeast, there is no kneading or rising time, making this recipe friendly for home bakers.

Ingredients for 12 Servings

This recipe makes one loaf in an 8 x 4-inch pan. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking takes 55–65 minutes.

Dry ingredients:

- 190 g all-purpose flour

- 200 g granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon baking powder (4 g)

- 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)

Wet ingredients:

- 75 g unsalted butter, softened

- 2 large eggs

- 180 ml whole milk

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)

Fruit and pan preparation:

- 340 g fresh or frozen cranberries

- 5 g butter for greasing

- 1 tablespoon flour for dusting

If using fresh berries, rinse and dry them thoroughly. Keep frozen cranberries in the freezer until they are ready to be added.

Step One: Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease the bottom and sides of an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan with 5 g butter.

3. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon flour inside, tilt the pan to coat the surfaces, and tap out the excess.

Alternatively, line the pan with baking paper, leaving the edges long enough to help lift out the loaf later.

Step Two: Mix the Butter and Sugar

1. Place 75 g softened butter and 200 g sugar in a large bowl.

2. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes, until pale and fluffy.

3. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix briefly.

4. Add the 2 eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until combined.

Using softened butter helps the ingredients blend smoothly and creates a tender texture.

Step Three: Make the Batter

1. In another bowl, whisk together 190 g flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

2. Add one-third of the flour mixture to the butter mixture and stir on low speed.

3. Pour in 90 ml milk and mix gently.

4. Add another third of the flour mixture, followed by the remaining 90 ml milk.

5. Add the final portion of flour and mix just until combined.

The batter should be thick but easy to spread. Avoid overmixing, which can make the finished loaf dense.

Step Four: Add the Cranberries

1. Measure 340 g cranberries and remove any damaged berries.

2. Cut unusually large berries in half if desired.

3. Add the fruit to the batter.

4. Fold gently with a spatula until the berries are evenly distributed.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Gentle folding helps keep the berries intact and spreads their tart flavor throughout the loaf.

Step Five: Bake Until Golden

1. Place the pan on the middle rack of the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 55–65 minutes, checking after 55 minutes.

3. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, the loaf is ready.

4. If wet batter remains, bake for another 5 minutes and test again.

5. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Ovens can vary, so check the center carefully before removing the pan.

Step Six: Cool and Serve

Let the loaf rest in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Cool for another 20–30 minutes before slicing to help the center hold its shape.

Cut into approximately 12 slices. Enjoy them plain, with a little butter, or alongside fresh fruit and plain yogurt. For a citrus twist, add 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest to the batter before folding in the cranberries.

Storage Tips

Store completely cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for up to 5 days. To keep it longer, wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving or warm gently.

Final Thoughts

Lykkers, this homemade cranberry bread combines a golden crust, a tender center, and refreshing berry flavor in every slice. By measuring carefully, mixing gently, and allowing enough cooling time, we can create a loaf that is both simple and satisfying. Would you enjoy it for breakfast or save a slice for an afternoon treat? Share your favorite serving ideas, and let's enjoy more homemade baking together!