This Cranberry Surprise Loaf is a delightful twist on traditional quick breads, featuring a moist, tender crumb infused with the tartness of fresh cranberries and the warmth of cinnamon. The true star is the rich, creamy cream cheese layer swirled through the center, which melts into the batter during baking to create a luxurious, marbled effect. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a soft texture that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Ideal for holiday gatherings, weekend brunches, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, this loaf is easy to prepare with pantry staples. The subtle crunch of chopped nuts adds a nice textural contrast, making every slice a satisfying treat.
Cranberry Surprise Loaf
Description
This Cranberry Surprise Loaf is a delightful twist on traditional quick breads, featuring a moist, tender crumb infused with the tartness of fresh cranberries and the warmth of cinnamon. The true star is the rich, creamy cream cheese layer swirled through the center, which melts into the batter during baking to create a luxurious, marbled effect. It&# 226;ÂÂs the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a soft texture that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Ideal for holiday gatherings, weekend brunches, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, this loaf is easy to prepare with pantry staples. The subtle crunch of chopped nuts adds a nice textural contrast, making every slice a satisfying treat.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
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In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add 1 egg and blend well until smooth. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt.
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Add 3/4 cup apple juice, 1/4 cup melted butter or margarine, and 1 beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
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Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped fresh cranberries and 1/2 cup chopped nuts.
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Spoon half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
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Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the layer of batter.
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Top with the remaining batter, spreading it carefully to cover the cream cheese layer.
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Bake for 65 to 75 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove from the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 145.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14.4g23%
- Saturated Fat 8.9g45%
- Cholesterol 37.0mg13%
- Sodium 136.4mg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.3g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.8g
- Protein 2.5g5%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.