Pumpkin and Cream Cheese Cranberry Bread
Ingredients:
- 200 grams of cooked pumpkin chunks
- 120 grams (½ cup) milk
- 2 eggs
- 100 grams cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 30 grams sugar
- 3 grams yeast
- 300 grams all-purpose flour
- 80 grams dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon oil (for greasing)
Directions:
- Prepare the Pumpkin Puree:
- Add 200 grams of cooked pumpkin chunks and 120 grams of milk to a blender.
- Blend until smooth to form a puree.
- Add Eggs:
- Crack in two eggs and blend again until fully combined.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Puree:
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- Soften 100 grams of cream cheese by leaving it out at room temperature for one hour.
- Add 30 grams of sugar to the softened cream cheese and mix thoroughly.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- Combine Mixtures:
- Gradually add the pumpkin and egg mixture into the cream cheese mixture. Start with a small amount to combine, then add the rest and mix well.
- Prepare the Dough:
- Add 3 grams of yeast to the wet mixture.
- Gradually add 300 grams of all-purpose flour in two batches, mixing well to form a dough.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).
- Add Cranberries:
- Once the dough has risen, mix in 80 grams of dried cranberries.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Prepare the Baking Container:
- Grease your hands with a little oil and press down on the surface of the dough.
- Fill your baking container (lined with parchment paper or a homemade paper box) only up to 40% full to allow room for rising.
- Prepare the Baking Container:
- Second Rise:
- Cover the container and let the dough rise again until it doubles in size.
- Bake:
- Second Rise:
- Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F).
- Place a tray of water in the oven to create steam for a soft texture.
- Bake for 30 minutes until the bread is fully cooked and golden.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool before slicing.
- Enjoy the soft, springy texture and the rich flavor of pumpkin and cranberries.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a smear of butter or cream cheese.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy snack.
- This bread makes a great breakfast with a side of fresh fruit.
Cooking Tips:
- For added flavor, you can mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg with the flour.
- Make sure to use soft cream cheese to avoid lumps in the mixture.
- Adding steam during baking helps create a soft crust, so don’t skip the tray of water in the oven.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and fiber, making this bread a nutritious treat.
- Dried cranberries add antioxidants and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Cream cheese provides calcium and adds a source of protein.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe contains dairy and gluten, making it unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivities.
Storage:
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw it at room temperature before serving.