Almond Cranberry Loaf Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of tart cranberries and nutty almonds, especially when they come together in our Almond Cranberry Loaf. This delightful bread is perfect for cozy family gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply as a special treat to enjoy with your morning coffee. The inviting aroma of orange zest blends seamlessly with the moist, flavorful loaf, making it a favorite for all ages. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe offers a comforting and delicious way to create new memories in your kitchen.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

Servings: 8-10

Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
• Extra slivered almonds for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the orange juice. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in the cranberries and toasted slivered almonds until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle extra slivered almonds over the top for a beautiful, crunchy finish.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
8. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Helpful Tips

• If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent them from bleeding color.
• Feel free to substitute dried cranberries if fresh or frozen are not available. Soak them in orange juice for 15 minutes to plump them up before adding to the batter.
• For a gluten-free version, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.

Storage Instructions

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Pairings

This Almond Cranberry Loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of orange glaze. It also complements a breakfast spread of scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.

We hope you enjoy making and savoring our Almond Cranberry Loaf as much as we do. Share your beautiful creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. We’d love to hear your feedback, so be sure to leave a comment on our website at Zynahz. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and follow us on social media for more inspirational recipes and kitchen tips.