Name: Glazed Cranberry Swirl Loaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups flour; 2 ¼ teaspoons yeast; ¾ cup warm milk; ¼ cup sugar; ¼ cup melted butter; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup cranberry sauce or jam; 2 tablespoons sugar (if needed); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1–2 tablespoons milk or orange juice

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 25 reviews

There is something truly magical about the warm, inviting aroma of a freshly baked Glazed Cranberry Swirl Loaf Recipe filling your kitchen. This loaf is a celebration of flavors, combining the tart zestiness of cranberries with a tender, buttery dough, all topped with a delicate, sweet glaze that ties it together beautifully. It’s not only festive but incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal treat for holiday mornings or as a charming homemade gift that’s guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to receive it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center is a dark bowl filled with bright red cranberries. Surrounding it are small white bowls holding white granulated sugar, baking powder with salt, lemon and orange zest, and flour. There is a white bowl with brown sugar, another bowl with yellow powdered ingredients, and a measuring cup with milk. Two brown eggs are placed in a white square bowl next to a stick of unsalted butter in paper wrapping. The overall layout is clean and organized with a light, fresh feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making your Glazed Cranberry Swirl Loaf Recipe shine. Each item plays a crucial role: from the soft, rich dough to the tart cranberry filling and the finishing, shine-worthy glaze.

3 cups flour: Provides structure and the perfect base for the soft loaf.
2 ¼ teaspoons yeast: Activates the dough to create a light, fluffy texture.
¾ cup warm milk: Adds moisture and helps activate the yeast gently.
¼ cup sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tart cranberries.
¼ cup melted butter: Gives the bread a tender crumb and richness.
1 egg: Binds the dough and enriches the flavor and color.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
1 cup cranberry sauce or jam: The star filling, bringing bright flavor and vibrant color.
2 tablespoons sugar (optional): Adjust sweetness in the filling to taste.
1 cup powdered sugar: For a smooth, sweet glaze that adds a lovely shine.
1–2 tablespoons milk or orange juice: Helps thin the glaze for perfect drizzling; orange juice adds a hint of citrus flair.

How to Make Glazed Cranberry Swirl Loaf Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Activate the Dough

Start by mixing the warm milk with yeast and sugar to wake those little yeast cells up and get your dough rising beautifully. Once the mixture is bubbly, stir in the egg, melted butter, and salt for richness and flavor, then gradually add the flour. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is key to developing that luscious texture that makes the loaf irresistibly soft.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Cover your dough and let it rest for about an hour to an hour and a half. This proofing period lets the yeast work its magic, doubling the dough’s size and creating those delicate air pockets inside that make each bite so tender and fluffy.

Step 3: Roll and Layer with Cranberry Filling

Once risen, roll out the dough into a neat rectangle. Spread your cranberry sauce or jam evenly—adding extra sugar if you like it sweeter. This even layer of tangy filling ensures every slice bursts with flavor and color, giving the loaf its signature swirl.

Step 4: Form the Loaf Shape

Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it lengthwise. Twist the two halves gently to reveal the cranberry layers before shaping it back into a loaf. This twist is where your beautiful cranberry swirls come to life, making the loaf as eye-catching as it is delicious.

Step 5: Final Rise and Bake

Place your shaped loaf into a greased pan and let it rise gently for another 30 minutes. This last proof gives the bread a light, airy final texture. Then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown, with a welcoming aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 6: Drizzle the Sweet Glaze

Once fully cooled, whisk powdered sugar with milk or orange juice until smooth and drizzle generously over the top. This glaze adds a perfect sweet finish with a luscious sheen that will make your loaf irresistible.

How to Serve Glazed Cranberry Swirl Loaf Recipe

The image shows a loaf of cake with five slices cut and stacked close together on a white rectangular plate. The cake has two main layers: a light brown, soft-looking base with a slightly crumbly texture, and a deep red swirl running throughout each slice, creating a marbled effect. The red swirl looks smooth and shiny, contrasting with the drier texture of the cake. The plate rests on a white marbled surface, making the colors of the cake stand out. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your loaf by sprinkling a little extra zest from an orange over the glaze or adding some fresh cranberries on top. This adds a festive touch and a pop of color that’s absolutely delightful for presentation.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of warm tea or coffee, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent breakfast or dessert. Its sweet-tart balance complements creamy or rich sides perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Glazed Cranberry Swirl Loaf Recipe into thick pieces and arrange on a beautiful platter with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a seasonal touch. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine also creates charming, gift-worthy servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The glaze might soften the crust slightly, but the bread will stay moist and flavorful, perfect for snacking or breakfast.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the whole loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Frozen, it keeps beautifully for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to revive that fresh-baked softness and melt the glaze slightly, making each bite as comforting as when it just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh cranberries, simmer them with sugar and a splash of water until they soften and create a jammy consistency. This homemade filling will be just as delicious, though remember it might have a bit more texture.

What can I substitute for milk if I’m dairy-free?

Plant-based milks like almond, soy, or oat milk work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure they are warm to activate the yeast properly.

How do I know when the glaze is the right consistency?

The glaze should be smooth and slightly thick but pourable. If it’s too runny, add more powdered sugar a little at a time; if too thick, thin with a few drops of milk or orange juice.

Can I add nuts or other fruits to the loaf?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch, and dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots can blend well with the cranberry filling for extra texture and flavor.

Is this bread best eaten fresh or can it taste good the next day?

While freshest right out of the oven, this loaf actually tastes great the next day, especially after a quick warm-up. The flavors deepen and the texture stays soft, making it an excellent make-ahead treat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a bread that feels like a hug in loaf form, the Glazed Cranberry Swirl Loaf Recipe is your new best friend. It marries tangy cranberries with a soft, buttery dough and a sweet glaze that’s simply irresistible. Whether for a festive occasion or a cozy weekend treat, I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share that joy with those you love.