Description
This Cranberry Pistachio Bread is a delightful blend of tart cranberries, nutty pistachios, and a soft, moist crumb that makes every bite unforgettable. It’s the perfect loaf to enjoy with a warm cup of tea or coffee, especially during the holidays—but honestly, it’s delicious all year round.
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Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
Mix-ins:
• 1 cup dried cranberries (chopped if large)
• 1 cup shelled unsalted pistachios (roughly chopped)
Optional Glaze:
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
This blend adds structure and warm, cozy flavor to the bread.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Add the oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Whisk until well combined.
The orange zest adds a lovely citrus brightness that pairs beautifully with cranberries.
Step 4: Add the Dry to the Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined.
Do not overmix—the batter should be thick but not overworked.
Step 5: Fold in Cranberries & Pistachios
Gently fold in the cranberries and chopped pistachios until evenly distributed.
These add texture, flavor, and festive color to every slice.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
If the top is browning too fast, cover loosely with foil during the last 10–15 minutes.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing or slicing.
Step 8: Make the Glaze (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth.
Drizzle over the cooled loaf for a sweet, citrusy finish.
Notes
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – They mix more evenly for a smoother batter.
Chop Mix-ins Evenly – Uniform sizes help distribute flavor in every bite.
Don’t Skip the Zest – It adds amazing fresh flavor without extra acidity.
Check for Doneness – Ovens vary, so use a toothpick test after 55 minutes.
Let It Rest – The flavors develop even more the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Cuisine: American