Ever get stuck choosing between a cozy holiday loaf and a sweet bakery treat? This cranberry & white chocolate delight is what finally convinced me I didn’t have to pick.
With its pillowy texture, vibrant cranberries, and creamy white chocolate chips, this bread machine recipe brings together everything I love about seasonal baking—without the hassle.
It’s festive without being fussy, rich without feeling heavy, and so good you’ll want to make it well beyond December.
Why This Bread Machine Recipe Is a Holiday Must-Have
This isn’t your everyday quick bread. What makes this recipe shine is how effortlessly it blends indulgence with elegance—all through the power of your bread machine.
It’s ideal for anyone who wants homemade comfort with a little bakery magic thrown in.
- Cranberries add tart bursts of fruity flavor that perfectly balance the sweetness.
- White chocolate chips melt just enough to give each slice a creamy finish.
- Bread flour ensures a chewy, cloudlike interior with a crisp golden crust.
- Hands-free mixing and kneading thanks to your machine’s basic/white program.
This loaf pairs just as well with a cozy coffee as it does on a Christmas brunch table. Honestly, once you try it, it’ll feel like the season isn’t complete without it.
Perfect for Gifting, Hosting, or Freezing Ahead
What I love most about this cranberry & white chocolate delight is how versatile it is. It’s not just a holiday treat—it’s a secret weapon for every December moment.
- Hosting? Serve warm slices with spiced butter or cream cheese.
- Gifting? Wrap in parchment and tie with baker’s twine for a charming homemade gift.
- Meal prepping? Freeze slices between sheets of wax paper, then toast individually when needed.
It’s that kind of recipe you make once and instantly bookmark. Because it works. Every time.
Ways to Enjoy: Beyond Just Slicing & Toasting
You’ll want to try this recipe in more ways than one. Here are some of my favorite ways to make the most of it:
- Holiday French toast: Dip in egg and orange juice, fry, and drizzle with citrus syrup.
- Breakfast casserole base: Cube and bake with cream cheese and chopped almonds.
- Festive snack board: Slice into mini squares and serve with cheese, nuts, and mulled cider.
Even just toasted with a pat of butter? Still completely satisfying.
Simple, Sweet & Family-Friendly
No complicated prep. No specialty tools. This recipe is 100% family-friendly, both in the making and the eating.
- Kids love the sweet bits of chocolate (and helping to press “Start” on the machine).
- Adults love the flavor combo that feels upscale yet cozy.
- Clean-up is minimal, since the machine does most of the work.
It’s also easy to double for a 2-pound loaf if you’re feeding a crowd—or just want leftovers for the week. And let’s be real, you’re going to want leftovers.
Diet-Friendly Swaps & Bonus Tips
Even with its indulgent flavors, you can tweak this recipe to fit your preferences:
- Dairy-free option? Use vegan white chocolate chips.
- Lower sugar? Sub some chocolate with chopped nuts or unsweetened cranberries.
- Gluten-free version? Use a 1:1 gluten-free bread flour with good structure.
One more pro tip? Always wait the full 30 minutes after baking before slicing. It keeps the crumb soft and the shape intact.
Easy Cranberry & White Chocolate Delight Bread Machine Recipe
Equipment
- Bread machine with Basic/White program
- 1½- to 2-pound loaf capacity pan
Ingredients
1½-Pound Loaf
Wet Ingredients:
- ¾ cup water
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla
Dry Ingredients:
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1¾ tsp yeast
Mix-ins (Add During Mix-in Cycle):
- ½ cup dried sweetened cranberries
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
2-Pound Loaf
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1½ tsp vanilla
Dry Ingredients:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1½ tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp yeast
Mix-ins (Add During Mix-in Cycle):
- ¾ cup dried sweetened cranberries
- ¾ cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Add ingredients to your bread machine’s baking pan in the order listed: start with the liquids, then add dry ingredients, ending with yeast on top.
- Select the Basic/White program according to your bread machine’s manual.
- Choose the correct setting for 1½-pound or 2-pound loaf size, then press Start.
- When your machine beeps for mix-ins (or near the second kneading cycle), add the cranberries and white chocolate chips.
- When baking is complete, remove the loaf carefully and place it on a wire rack to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Make holiday French toast and top with syrup made from orange juice for a zesty twist.
- Cube and use in a breakfast casserole with cream cheese glaze and chopped almonds for a festive morning treat.
- Bake early, let it cool while decorating, and enjoy a warm slice afterward as a holiday reward.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.