Cranberry Yeast Bread (Breadmaker 1 1/2 Lb. Loaf)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Recipe Category: Yeast Breads
Servings: 16
Description:
This Cranberry Yeast Bread recipe is perfect for those who love the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries combined with a soft, light bread that is both hearty and flavorful. Made effortlessly with a bread machine, this recipe creates a loaf thatβs ideal for breakfast, brunch, or festive occasions like Christmas. The addition of honey, whole wheat flour, and ground mace enhances the bread’s flavor, while the cream cheese spread offers a deliciously creamy topping. Whether serving it at family gatherings or sharing with friends, this bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Honey | 1/3 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Margarine | 3 tbsp |
| Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Bread flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Whole wheat flour | 1 cup |
| Cranberries (fresh or dried) | 3/4 cup |
| Ground mace | 1 tsp |
| Fast-rising active dry yeast | 1 tsp |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 2 oz |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Orange zest | 1 tsp |
| Ground mace (for spread) | 1 pinch |
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1 slice of bread, approximately 1/16th of the loaf):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 186.9 kcal |
| Fat Content | 7.8 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 3.6 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 28.8 mg |
| Sodium Content | 218.4 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 26 g |
| Fiber Content | 2.2 g |
| Sugar Content | 7.7 g |
| Protein Content | 4.6 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bread Machine:
Start by selecting the loaf size that your bread machine recommends for a 1 1/2 lb loaf. -
Add Ingredients to the Bread Pan:
Measure out all of the ingredients, except for the cream cheese spread. Add them to the bread pan of the bread machine in the order specified by the machineβs manufacturer. For most bread machines, the liquid ingredients should go in first, followed by the dry ingredients, with the yeast added last. -
Select the Baking Cycle:
Set your bread machine to the βbasicβ bake cycle, and select the lightest crust setting. This will ensure a soft, golden brown exterior while keeping the inside of the bread tender. -
Start the Bread Machine:
Start the bread machine and let it complete the baking cycle, which typically lasts about 3 hours. -
Cool the Bread:
Once the baking cycle has finished, carefully remove the bread from the bread pan and allow it to cool on a wire rack. This step is essential to ensure that the bread firms up a little, making it easier to slice. -
Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread:
While the bread cools, prepare the cream cheese spread. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, orange zest, and a pinch of ground mace. Using an electric mixer on low speed or a spoon, beat the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cooled bread and spread the cream cheese mixture generously on top. The combination of the soft, slightly sweet bread with the creamy spread is truly delightful. -
Store Leftover Spread:
Any remaining cream cheese spread can be stored in the refrigerator for later use. It will stay fresh for several days and can be enjoyed with more bread or even as a topping for crackers.
Tips for Success:
-
Cranberries:
Fresh or dried cranberries work well in this recipe. If using dried cranberries, you can soak them in water for about 10 minutes to plump them up before adding them to the dough. -
Yeast:
Always make sure to use fresh, active dry yeast for the best results. If your bread machine has a βyeast dispenser,β you can place the yeast in there to ensure it doesnβt come into contact with the liquid ingredients too soon. -
Cream Cheese Spread:
If you prefer a sweeter spread, feel free to increase the sugar content in the cream cheese mixture. Alternatively, you can add a little vanilla extract to give the spread a lovely flavor boost. -
Storage:
To keep the bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also freeze the bread if you want to enjoy it at a later date. Just make sure to slice it first for easy thawing. -
Make it a Festive Treat:
This bread is perfect for the holiday season! Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the bread dough for a warm, festive flavor that complements the cranberries.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Cranberry Yeast Bread combines the goodness of whole grains with the sweetness of honey and cranberries, making it a healthy yet indulgent treat. The texture of the bread is light and fluffy, with a slightly tangy flavor from the cranberries and a hint of orange zest. Paired with the creamy, tangy cream cheese spread, this bread makes an excellent addition to any brunch spread, holiday table, or simply enjoyed as a delicious snack. Plus, making it in a bread machine means the hard work is done for you, leaving you more time to enjoy the rewards of your efforts.
