Introduction to Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving cozy treats that warm the heart and home. That’s where my Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread comes in! This delightful bread is not just a recipe; it’s a festive hug in loaf form. Perfect for busy moms and professionals, it’s a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich flavors of eggnog and tart cranberries, this bread is sure to become a cherished addition to your holiday traditions.

Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread: A Festive Treat You’ll Love!

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Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread is a delightful holiday treat that combines the rich flavors of eggnog with tart cranberries, making it a perfect addition to your festive table.

Author: Chef Samantha
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter, then add the eggnog, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, 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 the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For a sweeter bread, you can add a bit more sugar.
Make sure to use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread

This Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of the holidays. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The sweet and tart combination of cranberries with the creamy richness of eggnog creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Plus, it fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma that makes everyone feel festive!

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 foundation of your bread, providing structure and texture.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a lovely golden crust.
Baking powder: This leavening agent gives your bread a light, fluffy texture.
Baking soda: Works with the acidic eggnog to help the bread rise.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, perfect for the holidays.
Ground nutmeg: A classic holiday spice that complements the eggnog beautifully.
Unsalted butter: Provides 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 cheer.
Large eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen, they bring a tart burst that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.

For those looking to customize, consider adding a bit more sugar for a sweeter loaf or using whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a loaf pan and grease it with a bit of butter or cooking spray. This will help your bread slide out easily once it’s baked. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a loaf that sticks!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. This is where the magic begins! Make sure everything is well combined, as this will ensure your bread rises beautifully. The aroma of the spices will already start to fill your kitchen, making it feel like the holidays!

Step 3: Cream Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter until it’s light and fluffy. Then, add in the eggnog, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This mixture is the heart of your Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread, bringing that rich, creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the tart cranberries. It’s like a holiday party in a bowl!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! This step is where the flavors start to meld, creating a batter that’s both inviting and delicious. You’re almost there!

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in the fresh or frozen cranberries into the batter. This is where the tartness comes into play, balancing the sweetness of the bread. Use a spatula to carefully incorporate them without breaking them apart. Each bite will be a delightful surprise of flavor, making your Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread truly special. It’s like adding little bursts of joy!

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Now, pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your home will be irresistible, making everyone eager for a slice!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to remove. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and enjoy! This Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread is perfect on its own or with a smear of butter. It’s a festive treat that’s sure to impress!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay!
For a richer flavor, let the bread sit overnight before slicing.
Experiment with spices; a pinch of ginger can add a nice twist.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Equipment Needed

Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best, but any similar size will do.
Mixing bowls: Use one large bowl for dry ingredients and another for wet.
Whisk: A whisk is ideal for mixing, but a fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for folding in cranberries and scraping the bowl.
Cooling rack: If you don’t have one, a plate will suffice for cooling the bread.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Twist: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every slice.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a safe alternative.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for an extra layer of flavor.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and eggnog.

Serving Suggestions

Pair slices of Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread with a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee for a cozy treat.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
For a brunch spread, include fresh fruit and yogurt on the side.
Wrap slices in festive parchment paper for a charming gift idea.

FAQs about Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread

Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly in this Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread. Just make sure it’s a flavor you enjoy, as it will influence the overall taste of the bread.

How do I store leftover bread?

To keep your Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

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 let the flavors meld. Just remember to store it properly!

What can I substitute for cranberries?

If cranberries aren’t your thing, you can substitute them with dried cherries or blueberries. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Is this bread suitable for gifting?

<pDefinitely! The Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread makes a lovely homemade gift. Wrap it in festive paper or a decorative tin, and it’s sure to bring joy to anyone who receives it!

Final Thoughts

Making Cranberry Vanilla Eggnog Bread is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with loved ones. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen is a reminder of the warmth of the holiday season. Each slice offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a treat everyone will love. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or gifting it to friends, this bread brings a touch of festive cheer to any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the holiday spirit, and let this recipe become a cherished part of your traditions!