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Simple Christmas Cranberry Bread

Delicious Simple Christmas Cranberry Bread recipe with step-by-step instructions.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 3825 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the batter:

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 bag (8 oz) fresh cranberries

For the crumb topping:

  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease two loaf pans, or if you prefer, prepare one very large loaf pan or a 9-inch cake pan instead. Ensuring your pans are well-greased will make removing the loaves much easier later.
  • In a large bowl, add the eggs and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture for 5 minutes, or until the volume has nearly doubled. This step is essential for creating a light and tender crumb, so don’t be tempted to rush it.
  • Add the softened unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, and almond extract to the beaten eggs and sugar. Mix until the batter is smooth and well-blended.
  • Gently mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender. Carefully fold in the fresh cranberries, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the batter. I like to save a few cranberries to sprinkle on top for extra color.
  • Pour the completed batter into the prepared loaf pans, spreading it evenly. If you set aside some cranberries in the previous step, sprinkle them on top now for a festive touch.
  • In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/3 cup unsalted butter. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until the mixture is sandy in texture. Sprinkle this streusel topping evenly over the batter in the pans. For extra crunch, I sometimes add a small pinch of salt to the topping.
  • Bake the loaves at 350°F for 45-50 minutes for 2 loaves or 60-70 minutes for a single large loaf. The loaves are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the loaves to cool in the pans before slicing. I recommend letting them cool completely for the cleanest slices and best texture.