Indulge in the subtly sweet flavors and tender crumb of this Dried Cherry or Cranberry Loaf, a delightful quick bread that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Featuring a moist batter infused with vanilla and dotted with tart dried cherries or cranberries, this loaf gains a vibrant hint of citrus from optional orange zest, making it uniquely irresistible. Prepared with pantry staples like all-purpose flour, sugar, and baking powder, and enriched with milk, eggs, and melted butter, this recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or lightly toasted with a smear of cream cheese or butter, this versatile loaf is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Great for holiday tables or as a simple, year-round treat, this easy homemade bread is bound to become a family favorite!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate medium bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the dried cherries or cranberries and orange zest (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serve as is, or spread with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam. Enjoy!
Calories |
2654 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 65.3 g | 84% | |
| Saturated Fat | 36.5 g | 182% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 520 mg | 173% | |
| Sodium | 2318 mg | 101% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 481.2 g | 175% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.7 g | 52% | |
| Total Sugars | 268.1 g | ||
| Protein | 45.3 g | 91% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.0 mcg | 20% | |
| Calcium | 372 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 14.4 mg | 80% | |
| Potassium | 1107 mg | 24% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.