This Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread brings together the delightful balance of sweet chocolate chips and tart, juicy cranberries. Perfectly moist with a slight tang, it is ideal for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack.
Not only does this bread taste incredible, but it also makes a beautiful gift for the holidays. The red cranberries against the deep brown of the bread create an inviting look. Slice it up and serve with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy moment.
Full Recipe:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
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1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
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Add the sour cream and mix until smooth.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
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Fold in the chopped cranberries, chocolate chips, and walnuts (if using).
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
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Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 270 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tangy: Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread
Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread is a delightful combination of rich chocolate chips and tart, juicy cranberries that create a unique flavor profile in every bite. This quick bread recipe is not only a delicious treat but also a festive one, perfect for holiday gatherings, breakfast, or an afternoon snack. The contrast of sweet chocolate and tart cranberries makes this bread irresistibly tasty and perfect for any occasion.
Why Chocolate and Cranberries Make a Great Pair
Chocolate and cranberries may seem like an unusual pairing at first, but they complement each other beautifully. Cranberries, with their sharp, tart flavor, provide the perfect contrast to the sweet, creamy taste of chocolate. When baked into a loaf, these two ingredients come together to create a moist, tender bread that is both sweet and refreshing. The combination of chocolate and cranberries evokes the essence of the holiday season, making this recipe a go-to for family celebrations or a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of tea.
Not only do they taste great together, but these ingredients also provide numerous health benefits. Cranberries are loaded with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, making them an excellent choice for adding a little nutritional boost to a sweet treat. The chocolate chips, especially when using dark chocolate, also have their own benefits, such as being rich in antioxidants and improving heart health. This bread, therefore, offers a perfect balance of indulgence and health-conscious ingredients.
Versatility of the Recipe
One of the greatest things about Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread is its versatility. While it is delicious as written, it is easy to adapt to suit various dietary preferences and needs. For those with dietary restrictions, there are a few simple substitutions you can make to make the bread gluten-free, vegan, or even sugar-free.
To make the bread gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. If you’re looking for a vegan version, replacing the eggs with flax eggs or chia eggs is an excellent option. For those who want to lower the sugar content, you can substitute granulated sugar with a natural sweetener such as stevia, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. There are many ways to tweak this recipe, making it as inclusive as possible for a wide range of dietary needs.
How to Customize the Recipe
While this bread is wonderful as it is, you can take it to the next level by adding your own creative twists. Here are some variations that can further elevate the flavors:
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Spices: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter to introduce a warm, spiced note to the bread.
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Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor with a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest. The citrusy aroma will beautifully complement the sweetness of the chocolate and the tartness of the cranberries.
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Nuts: If you enjoy a bit of crunch in your bread, consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter. The nuttiness will add depth and texture to each bite.
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Swapping Chocolate: For a slightly different take, try using white chocolate chips, which would pair wonderfully with the cranberries, offering a milder sweetness that still balances the tartness of the berries.
This bread is incredibly adaptable, making it a fun recipe to experiment with. Whether you’re looking to adjust the flavor profile or tweak the texture, the possibilities are endless.
Best Way to Serve Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread
This bread is a versatile treat that can be served in many different ways. Enjoy a slice as a quick breakfast or snack, or serve it as part of a festive brunch spread. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can even toast it lightly and spread a bit of butter or cream cheese for an indulgent treat.
If you’re hosting a holiday gathering or potluck, Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread makes a great addition to your dessert table. It’s easy to slice and share, and its festive appearance makes it an eye-catching option. To make it even more special, top each slice with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
This bread also makes a thoughtful gift. Wrap it up with a ribbon or in a gift box, and it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Because of its moist texture, it stays fresh for several days, making it an ideal option for gifting during the holidays or any special occasion.
The Health Benefits of Cranberries in Baking
While Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread is undeniably a treat, it also has some nutritional value, thanks to the inclusion of cranberries. Cranberries are not only low in calories but also packed with nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. These powerful antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, can help fight oxidative stress in the body, contributing to overall health.
The fiber in cranberries also helps support a healthy digestive system, while the vitamin C boosts the immune system. Though this bread isn’t exactly a health food, using fresh cranberries adds a nutritious touch to this sweet loaf, helping to balance out the indulgence of the chocolate chips.
Storage Tips for Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread
Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread is best enjoyed within the first few days of baking when it is fresh and moist. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, it can be stored to enjoy later. To keep the bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep it longer, Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread can be frozen. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few hours or warm it up in the oven for a quick, freshly-baked taste.
Conclusion: A Timeless Treat for Any Occasion
Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread is an easy yet elegant dessert that adds a touch of sweetness and color to any table. The combination of chocolate and cranberries makes for a flavorful and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed by all. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or to share with friends, this bread is sure to please.
The best part is that this recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to make it fit your dietary preferences and experiment with different flavors. From the tartness of the cranberries to the sweetness of the chocolate, every bite is a perfect balance of deliciousness. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon at home or preparing for a festive holiday gathering, Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bread will make the occasion feel extra special.