As the fragrant scent of freshly baked bread wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but reminisce about those cozy holiday mornings spent with family. This Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bread captures that same warmth and sweetness, making it the ultimate festive treat. Combining tart cranberries with luscious white chocolate, this homemade loaf is not just a delight for the taste buds; it’s also an easy recipe to whip up whenever you crave a comforting dessert. With quick prep time and the promise of a fluffy, moist texture, it’s sure to impress at brunch or holiday gatherings. Are you ready to bring a slice of joy to your table?

What Makes This Bread So Irresistible?

Delightful Flavor Combination: The harmonious blend of tart dried cranberries and sweet white chocolate creates a flavor profile that dances on your palate. Festive Appeal: Perfectly suited for holiday gatherings, this bread is a showstopper that will impress friends and family alike. Easy to Make: With just simple ingredients and a straightforward process, even beginner bakers can achieve bakery-quality results at home. Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with a cup of coffee, or served as a charming dessert at your next holiday brunch. Make it Your Own: Feel free to experiment with substitutes like gluten-free flour or mix in some citrus zest for an aromatic twist! This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy seasonal flavors while creating lasting memories. If you love this, don’t miss out on our delicious Cheesy Garlic Bread for an equally crowd-pleasing addition to your table!

Cranberry Bliss Bread Ingredients

• Whip up your own delicious Cranberry Bliss Bread with these key ingredients!

For the Bread

All-Purpose Flour – Provides light structure; sifting it helps achieve a fluffy texture.
Whole Wheat Flour – Adds a nutty flavor; can be swapped with more all-purpose flour for a lighter experience.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the bread rise for that perfect fluffiness.
Baking Powder – Works in tandem with baking soda for an airy loaf.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; regular salt can substitute, but cut back slightly.
Unsalted Butter – Infuses richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread, fostering a soft crumb.
Eggs – Essential for binding ingredients together and adding moisture.
Vanilla Extract – Delivers aromatic warmth to every slice.
Buttermilk – Contributes to this bread’s tender texture; a milk and lemon juice mix works too.
Dried Cranberries – Provides delicious tartness; fresh cranberries can be used if you increase the amount slightly.
White Chocolate Chips – Adds creamy sweetness and beautifully melts into the bread.

For the Icing

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and creates a smooth icing.
Milk – Adjusts the icing’s consistency for easy drizzling.

This delightful Cranberry Bliss Bread is an easy way to indulge in comforting flavors while creating lasting memories with loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Bliss Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare a 9-inch loaf pan by greasing it thoroughly with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures that your Cranberry Bliss Bread will easily slide out once baked, maintaining its lovely shape and crumb.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. Sifting is essential for ensuring that your dry ingredients are well combined and void of lumps, contributing to a light, fluffy texture in your Cranberry Bliss Bread. Set the bowl aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, typically about 2 to 3 minutes. This process is key to achieving a tender crumb in your bread. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully integrate them into the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternately add the dry mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to prevent overmixing, which can lead to a dense bread. Carefully fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter for delightful bursts of flavor in your Cranberry Bliss Bread.

Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour. Keep an eye on the bread; it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This golden-brown exterior signifies a beautifully baked loaf.

Step 6: Cool the Bread
Once baked, allow the Cranberry Bliss Bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Afterward, gently transfer the loaf to a cooling rack to cool completely. This step is crucial because it prevents the bread from becoming soggy. Letting it cool will also help the flavors develop further.

Step 7: Make the Icing
While the bread cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until you achieve a smooth and drizzle-able consistency. Adjust the milk as needed to reach your desired thickness. This luscious icing will be the finishing touch that elevates your Cranberry Bliss Bread to the next level.

Step 8: Drizzle the Icing
Once the bread has completely cooled, pour or drizzle the icing over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. This not only adds sweetness but also makes your Cranberry Bliss Bread visually appealing. Let the icing set for a few minutes before slicing into your delicious creation to serve or enjoy.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Bliss Bread

Butter Temperature: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar. This step makes a huge difference in achieving a fluffy texture.
Egg Addition: Add eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, thoroughly mixing after each addition to maintain a smooth batter. Skipping this can lead to lumps.
Sifting Dry Ingredients: Always sift your dry ingredients together before combining with wet ones. This process helps prevent lumps, ensuring a light and airy Cranberry Bliss Bread.
Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool fully in the pan before transferring it to a rack. Covering warm bread can create unwanted moisture that affects texture.
Dried vs. Fresh Cranberries: When using fresh cranberries, remember to increase the amount slightly, as they will lose moisture during baking. Dried cranberries retain their consistency better.
Icing Consistency: Adjust the milk in your icing to achieve the desired drizzle-able consistency. A thicker icing works well for beautiful decorative drizzles on your Cranberry Bliss Bread.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Bliss Bread

Room Temperature: Keep the cranberry bliss bread covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy fresh slices each morning with your coffee!

Fridge: If you want to extend its life, the bread can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. However, keep in mind that this may affect its moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before slicing.

Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will bring back that fresh-baked flavor!

What to Serve with Cranberry Bliss Bread

Pair your delightful loaf with these comforting additions to create an unforgettable meal experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture of mashed potatoes creates a comforting contrast to the sweet bread, perfect for balancing flavors.
Savory Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can enhance the sweet notes of cranberries while providing a rich, savory contrast. Pair it with some crackers for added crunch.
Hot Mulled Cider: The warm spices in mulled cider resonate beautifully with the cranberry flavor, making it a cozy companion for your bread during chilly evenings.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing mix of fruits adds a bright, juicy element that complements the bread’s richness, perfect for brunch gatherings.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side for a luscious treat, enhancing the sweetness of your cranberry bliss bread in every bite.
Charcuterie Board: A mix of cured meats, nuts, and dried fruits creates a beautiful visual and textural contrast, elevating your cranberry bliss bread into a gourmet experience.

These pairings not only elevate the experience of your Cranberry Bliss Bread but also create a heartwarming culinary adventure perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Bliss Bread delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the dry ingredients and creaming the butter and sugar, then refrigerate it, covered, to maintain freshness and flavor. For even more convenience, the bread can be baked and cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before covering to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply drizzle the icing over the top, and you’ll have an effortless yet delicious dessert that’s just as delightful as if it were fresh-baked!

Cranberry Bliss Bread Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists that can enhance your Cranberry Bliss Bread experience!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this delightful bread suitable for gluten-intolerant friends and family. They’ll love this fluffy version just as much!
Fruit Substitutions: Swap cranberries for raisins or mixed dried fruits to create different flavor profiles that can surprise and delight everyone at the table. This is great for experimenting with seasonal flavors.
Citrus Zing: Add orange or lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing twist that complements the sweetness of the white chocolate beautifully. Just a tablespoon can elevate your bread!
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring out warm, comforting flavors in your Cranberry Bliss Bread. This adds a cozy touch, especially during the holidays.
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for an added crunch that complements the soft texture of your bread. This variation brings a satisfying richness to each bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Replace half of the white chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate experience. The combination of flavors creates an indulgent treat that no one can resist!
Coconut Infusion: Sprinkle shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical essence that transports your taste buds on a delightful journey. Perfect for bringing a touch of sunshine to your gatherings!
Pumpkin Spice: For a seasonal twist, incorporate pumpkin puree into the batter and reduce the buttermilk slightly. A sprinkle of pumpkin spice will elevate your holiday bread to comforting heights.

Trying one or more of these variations can make your Cranberry Bliss Bread truly unique and memorable. Enjoy it warm with a cup of coffee or alongside some delightful Cheesy Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks Philly for the ultimate festive spread!

Cranberry Bliss Bread Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting dried cranberries?
Absolutely! When selecting dried cranberries, look for those that are plump and vibrant in color, indicating freshness. Avoid any that appear shriveled or have dark spots all over, as these may indicate they are past their prime.

How should I store leftover Cranberry Bliss Bread?
Very easy! Keep your Cranberry Bliss Bread covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, you can store it in the fridge for up to 1 week, but this may affect its moisture content.

Can I freeze Cranberry Bliss Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze your bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature before slicing!

What should I do if my bread is too dense?
Very common! If your Cranberry Bliss Bread turned out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not incorporating enough air during the creaming stage. To prevent this next time, be sure to cream your butter and sugar well for 2-3 minutes before adding eggs, and mix only until just combined when adding dry ingredients.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones?
Absolutely! You can substitute fresh cranberries for dried ones, but be sure to increase the quantity by about 1/8 to 1/4 cup, as fresh cranberries lose moisture during baking. However, keep in mind that fresh cranberries won’t work for the icing decoration post-baking.

Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
Very much so! You can make a gluten-free version of this Cranberry Bliss Bread by swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that you trust. Many wonderful blends are available that will help you achieve a similar texture and flavor without gluten!