Cranberry Bread with Cream Cheese Spread – Tart, Sweet & Perfectly Cozy

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cranberry bread wafting through the kitchen. Paired with a smooth, tangy cream cheese spread, this loaf is the ultimate balance of tart cranberries and soft, tender bread.

Cranberry bread has long been a seasonal favorite, especially around the holidays when fresh cranberries are at their peak.

This recipe elevates the classic quick bread by pairing it with a luscious cream cheese spread, adding richness that perfectly complements the cranberries’ tartness.

Moist, slightly sweet, and bursting with flavor, this cranberry bread is a versatile treat you’ll find yourself baking again and again. Serve it warm for breakfast, gift it to friends, or keep it on hand as a cozy snack—it never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive flavor combo – Tart cranberries and creamy spread = perfect holiday pairing.
• Simple yet elegant – Easy enough for everyday baking, special enough for gatherings.
• Moist & tender – A soft crumb that stays fresh for days.
• Customizable – Works with fresh or dried cranberries, nuts, or even a citrus twist.
• Make-ahead friendly – Both bread and spread can be prepped in advance.

Cranberry Bread with Cream Cheese Spread

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cranberry bread wafting through the kitchen. Paired with a smooth, tangy cream cheese spread, this loaf is the ultimate balance of tart cranberries and soft, tender bread. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a festive holiday treat, this recipe is comfort and elegance in every slice.

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Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Ingredients

  

• Ingredients
• For the Cranberry Bread:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup orange juice freshly squeezed, if possible
• ½ cup unsalted butter melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest optional, for extra brightness
• 1 ½ cups cranberries fresh or frozen; if using frozen, do not thaw
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
• For the Cream Cheese Spread:
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of ½ an orange optional, for flavor

Instructions

 

• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together orange juice, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
• Bring It Together: Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix. Batter should be slightly thick.
• Fold in Add-Ins: Fold in cranberries and nuts (if using). Distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
• Bake the Bread: Transfer batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Make the Cream Cheese Spread: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with honey and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Stir in orange zest if desired.
• Serve: Slice the cooled cranberry bread, spread with cream cheese mixture, and enjoy!

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Pro Tips & Variations

• Citrus Boost: Swap orange juice with cranberry juice or lemon juice for a tangier loaf.
• Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts or replace with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
• Extra Indulgent: Add white chocolate chips or drizzle glaze over the loaf.
• Storage: Bread keeps well at room temperature for 2–3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer (well-wrapped) for up to 2 months. Spread should be refrigerated and used within 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect as a festive breakfast with coffee or tea.
• Lovely addition to a holiday brunch table.
• Great as an edible gift—wrap a loaf with a small jar of cream cheese spread.
• Enjoy as a cozy afternoon snack or light dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, dried cranberries work well. If using them, reduce the sugar slightly since they’re sweeter.

Can I make mini loaves or muffins instead?
Absolutely! Just adjust baking time: 20–25 minutes for muffins or 30–35 minutes for mini loaves.

Can I freeze cranberry bread?
Yes! Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently before serving.