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Cranberry Apple Bread

This cranberry apple bread features a tender, moist loaf filled with tart cranberries and crisp apples, baked until golden and fragrant. The baking process creates a beautifully risen bread with a slightly crackled crust, bursting with bright flavors and a cozy aroma. It’s perfect for breakfast or a seasonal snack, showcasing the vibrant taste of fall ingredients.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 medium apples peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries rinsed and dried
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Loaf pan
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • Spatula
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined. This creates a fragrant, well-blended dry base.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with vanilla extract until smooth, then stir in the melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is glossy and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  4. Fold the chopped apples into the wet mixture, distributing them evenly while gently pressing them into the batter to avoid crushing the pieces.
  5. Gently fold in the cranberries, trying not to burst them so they can release their bright juice during baking. This step adds lovely bursts of tart flavor.
  6. Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the bread tender.
  7. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula and ensuring an even surface. You can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or sugar on top for added aroma.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The bread will fill your kitchen with a warm, spicy aroma as it bakes.
  9. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the flavors to settle and the crumb to firm up.
  10. Slice once cooled, revealing the moist, tender crumb dotted with vibrant cranberries and tender apples. Serve slices warm or at room temperature, enjoying the cozy, seasonal flavors.

Notes

For best results, use fresh cranberries and firm apples. If cranberries sink, toss them lightly in flour before folding into the batter to help distribute evenly. Store leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.