Cranberry-Apple Cider Bread
A moist, flavorful bread combining tart cranberries and sweet apple cider, perfect for breakfast or teatime, appealing to fruit lovers and those seeking a comforting baked treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F and grease and flour an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder in a bowl.
- Stir in the chopped cranberries and chopped walnuts.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg well.
- Add sugar, sweet apple cider, and melted butter to the beaten egg and mix well.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, mixing just until blended.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven, let cool in the pan for a few minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour again after measuring. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries work well too, just do not thaw them before adding. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or omit them for a nut-free version. For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, which are common in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Cranberry-Apple Cider Bread is delightful served warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese. Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, a snack, or alongside a cup of tea. It pairs beautifully with a side of fruit salad or yogurt. For dessert lovers, consider serving it with a scoop of ice cream or alongside Peanut Butter Marbled Brownies for a sweet spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice and warm in a toaster or oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry-Apple Cider Bread contains roughly 637 calories, with 7g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1332mg per serving (58% 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 make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bread can be made a day in advance and stored properly, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to keep it wrapped to maintain freshness. If you make it a couple of days ahead, consider warming individual slices before serving for the best texture.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though the texture may be denser. If using gluten-free flour, ensure that it is a blend designed for baking to achieve similar results. Adjust the liquid slightly if needed, as gluten-free flours can absorb moisture differently.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding grated orange or lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy kick. You can also mix in spices like cinnamon or ginger for a warm touch. Dried fruits, such as raisins or chopped dates, could be added for additional sweetness and texture.
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).