About This Recipe

Few flavor pairings are as perfect as the creamy richness of cream cheese meeting the tangy sweetness of cranberries. This loaf celebrates that harmony in every slice — tender, moist, and speckled with ruby-red berries. Whether enjoyed warm on a crisp autumn morning or shared during the holiday season, this Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf captures pure comfort and joy.

Seasonal Burst of Flavor

As the seasons change, our cravings shift toward cozy, comforting flavors. This loaf brings that feeling to life — its golden crust hiding a moist interior filled with tangy cranberries and swirls of soft cream cheese. It’s an edible reflection of wintertime warmth and festive indulgence.

A Versatile Delight

Bake it as a traditional loaf, turn it into portable muffins, or toast slices for a breakfast twist. However you enjoy it, this recipe adapts beautifully to every occasion — from morning coffee to afternoon tea.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 cup fresh or thawed cranberries (patted dry)
• Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Optional Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• Up to 2 tablespoons milk or cream

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Mix in the sour cream just until combined, then add the cream cheese and beat until smooth.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Fold in cranberries (and nuts if using) with a spatula until evenly distributed.
8. Pour batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly.
9. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Optional glaze: Mix powdered sugar with milk or cream until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf before serving.

Serving Ideas

• Serve warm with butter or cream cheese spread.
• Toast slices lightly for breakfast or brunch.
• Wrap in parchment and ribbon for a thoughtful homemade holiday gift.