For A Friend

One of my favorite things to give as a gift is food. Some of my favorites to give are breads,cookies, and mixes. I guess I like to give food because I like receiving it as well. Last week I finally made pumpkin cranberry bread as a thank you for my sweet friend Chris and her mom Loretta. They kept Ivy all day a couple weeks ago while I went on a field trip with Laci. I was very appreciative that they did this for me. This time I made a big loaf , wrapped it in cellophane and tied a "Fresh Baked Just For You" tag with chocolate satin ribbon to give it a special touch. I hope they enjoyed their bread. It's one of my favorite pumpkin recipes. Probably because it tastes more like a dessert. Try this bread as a gift for your special friends.

"Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only a true friend will leave footprints in your heart."-Eleanor Roosevelt

Pumpkin Cranberry Bread

1 1/2 c. all purpose flour
2 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
3/4 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. sweetened dried cranberries
3/4 c. pumpkin
1/2 c. vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1/4 c. orange juice or water

Beat together pumpkin, vegetable oil, eggs and orange juice or water in large mixer bowl until blended. Add mix, stir until just moistened. Spoon batter into greased and floured 9x5 loaf pan. Bake in preheated 350 oven for 60-65 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes; remove to wire rack to cool completely.