This Festive Cranberry Loaf is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, featuring a tender crumb infused with fresh orange juice and zested rind. The brightness of the cranberries cuts through the richness of the shortening, while chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch. It’s a versatile quick bread that shines as a breakfast treat with coffee or as a dessert alongside tea. The recipe is straightforward, requiring no yeast or rising time, making it an accessible project for bakers of all skill levels. The result is a moist, flavorful loaf that tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent make-ahead option for holidays, brunches, or simply a cozy weekend baking session.
Festive Cranberry Loaf
Description
This Festive Cranberry Loaf is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, featuring a tender crumb infused with fresh orange juice and zested rind. The brightness of the cranberries cuts through the richness of the shortening, while chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch. It&# 226;ÂÂs a versatile quick bread that shines as a breakfast treat with coffee or as a dessert alongside tea. The recipe is straightforward, requiring no yeast or rising time, making it an accessible project for bakers of all skill levels. The result is a moist, flavorful loaf that tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent make-ahead option for holidays, brunches, or simply a cozy weekend baking session.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC). Grease and line an 8.5x4.5x2.5-inch loaf pan with wax paper or parchment.
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In a large bowl, sift together 2 cups flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut the shortening into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, fresh orange juice, and grated orange rind.
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Add the liquid mixture all at once to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just moistened; do not overmix.
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In a small bowl, toss the coarsely chopped cranberries, chopped walnuts, and 1 teaspoon of flour together to coat.
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Fold the cranberry-walnut mixture into the batter until evenly distributed.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 1 hour, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
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For best texture and easier slicing, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in aluminum foil and let it stand overnight before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1103.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 34.8g54%
- Saturated Fat 9.3g47%
- Cholesterol 141.2mg48%
- Sodium 5209.5mg218%
- Total Carbohydrate 160.1g54%
- Dietary Fiber 4.4g18%
- Sugars 64.9g
- Protein 35.4g71%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.