We’re down to the last few days before Christmas and you might still need a gift or two. Instead of hitting the mall, yet again, why not whip up a gift from your kitchen? For the most part, the items you’ll need, you probably already have on hand this time of year.

This is one of those family recipes that have been around forever. It’s easy to make and I have yet to find someone who DOESN’T like it.

Cranberry Nut Bread

2 cups flour

1 cup sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 well beaten egg

1/4 cup shortening

1 Tablespoon grated orange peel

3/4 cup orange juice

1/2 cup chopped nuts

1 cup fresh cranberries – coarsley chopped

Sift together dry ingredients – I just put them all in a bowl and then stir them around with a wisk to mix them up well. Cut in shortening. Combine peel, juice and egg then add to the dry mixture mixing just until moistened. Fold in berries and nuts. Put in greased loaf pan – I just give it a spray with Pam. Bake at 350° for 60 minutes. Cool, wrap, and store over night.

This is a very moist quick bread. Perfect with a hot cup of tea. Mmmm.