Christmas Cranberry Loaf

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan (8×4-inch).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cranberries:

Coarsely chop the cranberries and toss them in a little bit of flour from the dry ingredients. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients:

In a large bowl, beat together the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract, melted butter, orange juice, and orange zest. Stir in the buttermilk and mix until combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
Fold in the chopped cranberries.
6. Bake:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the tablespoon of sugar evenly over the top for a sweet, crisp finish.
Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips: