Cranberry Apple Bread
A moist, flavorful bread bursting with tart cranberries and sweet apples, perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. The combination of cinnamon and walnuts adds warmth and crunch, making it a delightful treat for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a comforting homemade baked good.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 inch loaf pan.
- Combine peeled, chopped apples, sugar, and oil in a medium mixing bowl.
- Add egg and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon.
- Add the dry ingredients to the apple mixture, mixing just until moist.
- Stir in cranberries and chopped walnuts.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist texture, ensure your apples are fresh and not overripe. If you don't have walnuts, substitute with pecans or omit them for a nut-free option. To enhance sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. You can also mix in some raisins for added texture. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of cranberry apple bread warm or at room temperature, ideally with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or yogurt for a balanced meal. This bread also makes a lovely gift when wrapped in parchment and tied with twine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cranberry apple bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds until just warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Apple Bread contains roughly 773 calories, with 5g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 879mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute apples with pears or even mashed bananas for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so adjust the sugar if the fruit is sweeter, especially with bananas.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet with batter, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking regularly to avoid overbaking.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).