Cranberry Loaf Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sugar
• 3 eggs (at room temperature)
• 1 ¼ cups unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla powder
• 30 ml almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 (8-ounce) package of fresh cranberries

For the topping:

• ⅔ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pans and oven: Grease two loaf pans and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Alternatively, you can use one large loaf pan or a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Whisk the eggs and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs for at least 5 minutes until the mixture doubles in volume. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
3. Cream the butter and flavors: In a separate bowl, cream the butter together with the vanilla powder and almond extract until light and fluffy.
4. Combine dry ingredients and cranberries: In another bowl, gently mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly fold this mixture into the creamed butter mixture. Once combined, carefully fold in the fresh cranberries.
5. Pour the batter: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
6. Prepare the topping: In a shallow bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and butter, mixing until the texture resembles coarse sand. Sprinkle this topping generously over the batter.
7. Bake: For two loaves, bake for 45-50 minutes. For one large loaf, bake for 60-70 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the loaf is ready.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy your delicious cranberry loaf!