Description
Pioneer Woman Cranberry Nut Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread that features fresh cranberries and crunchy nuts. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with a hint of orange zest, makes this bread a holiday favorite. It’s simple to prepare and can be enjoyed year-round.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bread.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the tart cranberries.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Assists in leavening and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Provides a fresh, citrusy flavor.
- 3/4 cup orange juice: Keeps the bread moist and flavorful.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure.
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries, halved: The star ingredient for tartness.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds a crunchy texture.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. - Mix the dry ingredients.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. - Cream the butter and sugar.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer. - Add the wet ingredients.
To the butter and sugar mixture, add the orange zest, orange juice, and eggs. Mix well until fully incorporated. - Combine the dry and wet ingredients.
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. - Fold in the cranberries and nuts.
Carefully fold the halved cranberries and chopped walnuts (or pecans) into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed. - Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Spread the batter evenly in the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. - Bake the bread.
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. - Cool the bread.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. - Slice and serve.
Once cooled, slice the bread and serve it plain or with a spread of butter or cream cheese.