As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving cozy, festive treats that warm the heart and home. That’s where my Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread comes in! This delightful loaf combines the rich flavors of eggnog with tart cranberries and a hint of vanilla, making it a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling work and family or a professional looking to impress guests, this recipe is a quick solution that brings joy to your table. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread: A Holiday Delight Awaits!

Author: Chef Shana
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread is a festive and delicious treat perfect for the holiday season, combining the flavors of eggnog, cranberries, and vanilla.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup eggnog
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh or dried cranberries

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, eggnog, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the cranberries gently.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade eggnog.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Category: Baking
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread

This Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that captures the essence of the holidays. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. Plus, the combination of sweet cranberries and creamy eggnog creates a taste that’s both comforting and festive, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!

Ingredients for Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The backbone of your bread, providing structure and texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf and helps create that lovely golden crust.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Eggnog: The star of the show! It infuses the bread with creamy flavor and holiday spirit.
Large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding fluffiness.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the overall flavor, making it even more delightful.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bread rise, giving it that perfect texture.
Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure a light and airy loaf.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Cranberries: Fresh or dried, they add a burst of tartness that complements the sweetness beautifully.

For those looking to switch things up, consider using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or swapping in almond extract for a unique twist. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a festive loaf that’s sure to impress!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for even baking. While the oven warms up, grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. This will help your bread slide out easily once it’s baked.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for achieving a tender texture in your bread.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Next, add the eggs, eggnog, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The eggnog adds moisture and a rich flavor that makes this bread so special.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which is essential for a perfectly risen loaf.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your bread tender and fluffy. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 6: Fold in Cranberries

Now, it’s time to fold in the cranberries. Gently mix them into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. These little bursts of tartness will elevate the flavor of your bread.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps maintain its structure. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and get ready to enjoy a slice of holiday magic!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Don’t skip greasing the pan; it ensures easy removal.
Check your bread a few minutes before the timer goes off.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
For extra flavor, sprinkle some cinnamon on top before baking.

Equipment Needed

Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best; a glass or metal one will do.
Mixing bowls: Use at least two—one for wet and one for dry ingredients.
Electric mixer or whisk: An electric mixer speeds things up, but a whisk is just fine.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy in baking.
Spatula: Perfect for folding in cranberries and smoothing the batter.

Variations

Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
Spiced Delight: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a safe alternative.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based eggnog for a vegan-friendly treat.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweet, decadent twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair slices of Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread with a warm cup of spiced chai or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
For a festive presentation, arrange slices on a decorative platter with cranberries and mint leaves.

FAQs about Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries work wonderfully in this Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread. They add a sweet and chewy texture, making each bite delightful.

How should I store leftover bread?

Store your leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to three months.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! This bread actually tastes even better the next day. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it properly. Just remember to let it cool completely before wrapping it up.

What can I serve with Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread?

This festive bread pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve it with a side of cream cheese spread for an extra touch of indulgence.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! You can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on my journey with Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread, I can’t help but smile. This recipe is more than just a loaf; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, a sweet reminder of holiday gatherings, and a delightful way to share love with family and friends. The joy of slicing into a freshly baked loaf, with its inviting aroma wafting through the air, is simply unmatched. I hope this bread brings as much happiness to your home as it has to mine. So, gather your loved ones, and let the festive baking begin!