Cranberry Surprise Loaf
Submitted by Alisersa
Cranberry surprise loaf with a hidden cream cheese layer tucked between cranberry-walnut quick bread. Cut it open and the creamy center steals the show.
YIELD
4 servingsPREP
20 minCOOK
75 minREADY
95 minThe “surprise” is a silky ribbon of cream cheese hiding right in the middle.
Cranberry quick bread batter loaded with fresh chopped cranberries and walnuts goes into the pan in two layers, with a smooth, blended cream cheese filling sandwiched between them. As it bakes, the cream cheese melts into a tangy, creamy stripe that contrasts with the tart fruit and crunchy nuts around it.
Apple juice stands in for the usual orange juice here, giving the bread a mellower, softer sweetness.
Slice it cold from the fridge and that cream cheese center holds its shape like a cheesecake swirl. Bring it to room temperature and it softens into something almost mousse-like.
Chef Tips
- Spread the cream cheese layer carefully so it doesn’t mix into the batter. You want a clean, defined stripe.
- Line the pan with wax paper and grease it twice. This bread is sticky and will fight you on the unmold.
- Let it cool 15 minutes in the pan before flipping. Too soon and it falls apart; too late and it steams itself soggy.
- Refrigerate before slicing for the neatest cuts through that cream cheese layer.
Ingredients
Directions
Grease a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan with melted butter or margarine.
Line bottom and sides with wax paper and grease again.
Set aside.
Combine cream cheese and 1 egg in a blender or food processor until smooth and creamy.
Set aside.
Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, soda and salt.
Whisk in the apple juice, melted margarine and 1 egg.
Stir in the cranberries and walnuts.
Spoon half of the batter into the prepared pan.
Spoon cream cheese mix over the batter.
Top with remaining batter, spreading carefully.
Bake in a preheated 350℉ (180℃) F oven 70 to 75 min.
Cool 15 minutes before unmolding.
Remove wax paper and cool completely.
Wrap well and refrigerate.
Bring out of refrigeration 1 hour before serving.
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