Friday, December 16, 2011

Orange and Cranberry Mini Loaves


One of my greatest pleasures in life is to reach loved ones' hearts through their stomach; and what better time to do this than at Christmas time?! Christmas time just gives me an excuse to cook and bake tones more than just to feed my household :)
Normally I'm inspired to bake a certain dessert from reading cook books or online research, but this loaf was inspired all due to the beautiful packaging you see in the photo. As soon as I saw the festive mini loaf trays with the charming wrapping I was immediately inspired to find the right recipe and give as gifts. Look how sweet it looks, and how professionnal :)
The packaging matches very well with what's wrapped inside too. This Cranberry and Orange Loaf is stunning! Eat it warm, spread with butter. Yum!!


2/3 cup butter or margarine, softened 
1 1/2 cups sugar  
3 tablespoons orange juice  
2 tablespoons orange zest
4 eggs  
3 cups all-purpose flour  
2 teaspoons baking powder  
2 teaspoons salt  
1 cup milk  
2 cups dried cranberries  
1 cup chopped walnuts


Instructions:
  • In a mixing bowl, cream the butter, sugar, orange juice and zest.
  • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Combine the flour, baking powder and salt;
  • add to the creamed mixture alternately with milk.
  • Stir in cranberries and walnuts.
  • Pour into four greased 5-3/4-in. x 3-in. x 2-in. loaf pans.
  • Bake at 350 degrees F for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
  • Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks. 
 Merry Christmas!

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