Cranberry Pumpkin Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a bread that captures the warm flavors of fall in every bite, this Cranberry Pumpkin Bread is an absolute winner. It perfectly balances the natural sweetness of pumpkin and the tart pop of cranberries, creating a tender, moist loaf that feels both cozy and festive. With a blend of aromatic spices and crunchy pecans, this bread is more than just a treat—it’s a celebration of the season’s best ingredients wrapped up in one delicious loaf.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that together create an incredible taste experience. Each one plays a vital role, from the richness of the butter to the brightness of the cranberries.

• Butter (⅓ cup, softened): Adds moisture and richness, helping to keep the bread tender.
• Sugar (1 ¼ cups): Sweetens the bread and helps achieve a perfect golden crust.
• Eggs (2): Provide structure and aid in the bread’s lightness.
• Pumpkin puree (1 cup): Offers natural moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor.
• Milk (⅓ cup): Keeps the batter smooth and softens the crumb.
• Flour (1 ¾ cups): The backbone of the loaf, giving it body and texture.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the bread rise and stay tender.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Works alongside baking soda for a perfect lift.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the bread.
• Cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Brings a warm, familiar spice that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Ground cloves (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and a hint of earthiness.
• Ground ginger (½ teaspoon): Gives a subtle spicy brightness.
• Allspice (½ teaspoon): Complements the other spices with a complex touch.
• Pecans (¾ cup, chopped, divided): Provide a crunchy contrast and nutty flavor.
• Dried cranberries (½ cup): Offer bursts of tart sweetness throughout the bread.

How to Make Cranberry Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s ready when your batter is mixed. Grease a 9×5 loaf pan well—this makes removing the bread a breeze once it’s baked.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Eggs

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, sugar, and eggs together. This step is important because it creates a light and fluffy base, which contributes to the bread’s tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Milk

Next, mix in the pumpkin puree and milk until everything is fully combined. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor, while the milk helps keep the texture soft and smooth.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and cloves. This blend of spices is what transforms your bread into that perfect fall-inspired treat.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture, but be gentle—overmixing can make the bread dense. Stir just until the flour disappears.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans and Cranberries

Gently fold in half of the chopped pecans and all the dried cranberries, distributing their flavors and textures evenly throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, then sprinkle the remaining pecans over the top for a delightful crunch and nutty aroma. Bake for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, giving it time to set. Then remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack to maintain the perfect texture.

How to Serve Cranberry Pumpkin Bread

Garnishes

Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple drizzle of honey on top to complement the bread’s natural sweetness and enhance its visual appeal. A spread of softened butter or cream cheese on a fresh slice is also irresistible.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like coffee, chai tea, or even a spiced latte. For a more substantial treat, serve alongside a steaming bowl of pumpkin soup or a fresh autumn salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your loaf by slicing it into cubes and serving it as a sweet bread pudding, or use thick slices to create indulgent breakfast sandwiches with cream cheese and sliced apples. The Cranberry Pumpkin Bread also makes a stunning addition to a holiday brunch spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer enjoyment, refrigeration can extend its life to about a week, though the texture may change slightly.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked Cranberry Pumpkin Bread for up to 3 months. Slice beforehand to make thawing individual servings easier, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster or oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. Adding a small pat of butter while reheating will make each bite taste like it was just baked.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries are more tart and contain more moisture, which might change the bread’s texture. If you use fresh, consider adding a bit more sugar or reducing other liquids slightly to maintain balance.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Just be sure to follow the blend’s instructions for best results as texture may vary.

How can I make the bread more moist?

Adding a bit of applesauce along with the pumpkin puree or substituting some of the butter for vegetable oil can increase moisture without sacrificing flavor.

Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work beautifully and offer their own crunchy texture and flavor. Just keep the quantity the same.

What is the best way to check if the bread is done?

The classic toothpick test works wonders here: insert a toothpick into the center of the bread, and if it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about the combination of pumpkin, cranberries, and warm spices in this Cranberry Pumpkin Bread. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to, whether to share with loved ones or simply enjoy a cozy moment on your own. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming your seasonal favorite too!

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