This homemade Cranberry Pistachio Bread is a delightful quick bread that will brighten any occasion. With its perfect blend of tart cranberries and nutty pistachios, this loaf is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table. Whether you serve it at breakfast, as a snack, or alongside festive meals, its vibrant flavors make it a must-try recipe for food lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This quick bread comes together in just under an hour and requires minimal prep time.
- Festive Flavor: The combination of fresh cranberries and pistachios gives this bread a unique and delicious flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm from the oven, toasted with butter, or as part of a holiday brunch spread.
- Impressive Appearance: The beautiful colors from the cranberries and green pistachios create an eye-catching loaf that will impress guests.
- Great for Gifting: Wrap it up nicely to share with friends and family during the holiday season.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your cranberry pistachio bread, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugar together until fluffy, ensuring a light texture in your bread.
- Food processor: Quickly chops cranberries to the desired consistency, saving time in preparation.
- Loaf pan: Ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your bread as it rises.
Ingredients
This homemade cranberry pistachio bread is packed with flavor and made with simple ingredients.
For the Bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup + 1 TBSP sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cup fresh whole cranberries
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3.4-oz box instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
How to Make Cranberry Pistachio Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Beat together the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes on medium speed.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 4: Prepare Cranberries
In a food processor, combine:
– Fresh cranberries with
– 1 TBSP sugar
Pulse until roughly chopped. Alternatively, chop by hand or leave them whole if preferred. Add this mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing on low speed just until combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
– Flour,
– Baking powder,
– Salt,
– Pistachio pudding mix
Break apart any lumps of pudding mix while whisking.
Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients
With your mixer on low speed:
1. Add half of the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients.
2. Mix just until incorporated.
Step 7: Add Milk
Pour in the milk, mixing gently until combined without overmixing.
Step 8: Incorporate Remaining Dry Ingredients
Add in the remaining flour mixture along with chopped pistachios:
1. Mix just until all ingredients are combined.
Step 9: Bake the Bread
Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan:
– Smooth out the top before placing it in the oven.
– Bake for about 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Allow cooling for a few minutes in the pan before transferring to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before slicing to serve. Enjoy your delightful cranberry pistachio bread!
How to Serve Cranberry Pistachio Bread
Cranberry pistachio bread is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a delightful addition to any meal or occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience with this delicious bread.
For Breakfast
- With Butter: Spread a generous layer of butter on warm slices for a rich and creamy start to your day.
- With Cream Cheese: Top with a smooth layer of cream cheese for a tangy contrast that complements the cranberries beautifully.
As a Snack
- With Tea or Coffee: Enjoy slices alongside your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon treat.
- With Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter for an extra protein boost and nutty flavor.
For Dessert
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices topped with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant finish.
At Gatherings
- As an Appetizer: Cut into small pieces and serve with cheese and fruit platters at parties.
- In Gift Baskets: Slice and wrap the bread to include in homemade gift baskets during the holidays.
How to Perfect Cranberry Pistachio Bread
Perfecting your cranberry pistachio bread ensures it turns out moist and flavorful every time. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh cranberries and high-quality nuts for optimal flavor and texture.
- Measure Precisely: Accurate measurements of flour and sugar can make a significant difference in the outcome of your bread.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense bread, so be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes to avoid overbaking, which can dry out the loaf.
- Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and retain moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Pistachio Bread
Cranberry pistachio bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds brightness and contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors of the bread.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome meal that complements the bread’s sweetness.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses pairs perfectly, creating a savory contrast.
- Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup provides a comforting element alongside this quickbread.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option adds creaminess that works well with the textures in cranberry pistachio bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making cranberry pistachio bread can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial for the best results.
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense bread. Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep it fluffy.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts. This ensures a balanced flavor and texture.
- Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing the pan can result in the bread sticking. Always use cooking spray or butter to prevent this.
- Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Check your bread a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
- Using old ingredients: Fresh ingredients yield better flavor and texture. Always check expiration dates on baking powder and flour.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Let the bread cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Cranberry Pistachio Bread
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Cranberry Pistachio Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Toast slices in a skillet on medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making cranberry pistachio bread.
How do I make cranberry pistachio bread without eggs?
You can use applesauce or mashed bananas as an egg substitute, using 1/4 cup per egg.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, just add them directly from the freezer without thawing. It may slightly alter the texture but will still taste great!
What can I add to enhance my cranberry pistachio bread?
Consider adding orange zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor depth.
How do I store leftover cranberry pistachio bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This cranberry pistachio bread recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or spices! Give this fragrant loaf a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Cranberry Pistachio Bread
Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade Cranberry Pistachio Bread, a quick bread that is sure to brighten any occasion. This easy-to-make recipe combines tart cranberries with nutty pistachios, creating a moist loaf that serves as a perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. Whether enjoyed warm for breakfast, as a snack, or presented at festive meals, this vibrant bread is a must-try for food enthusiasts. With minimal preparation time and impressive results, it’s an ideal choice for gifting or sharing with loved ones during the season.
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup + 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3.4 oz box instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a stand mixer, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Chop fresh cranberries with sugar in a food processor and add to the mixture.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pistachio pudding mix.
- Gradually mix half of the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just incorporated.
- Add milk and mix gently before incorporating the remaining dry ingredients along with chopped pistachios.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top.
- Bake for about 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cooling in the pan before transferring to a rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Desserts & Sweets
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 213
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 34mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in orange zest or cinnamon. If you prefer using frozen cranberries, add them directly from the freezer without thawing.