Cranberry Orange Bread

There’s something truly magical about the combination of cranberries and oranges, especially during the holiday season. Our Cranberry Orange Bread captures this delightful duo perfectly. With a moist and tender crumb, this bread is bursting with juicy cranberries and topped with a luscious orange glaze. It’s a wonderful homemade gift idea that your friends and family will adore.

This recipe is a tribute to my favorite bakery’s cranberry loaf, but with a few tweaks that make it even better. More cranberries and a special orange glaze take this bread to the next level. Each slice is a balance of sweet and tangy flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Bread is a holiday must-have. Not only does it taste amazing, but it stays moist for days, making it perfect for preparing in advance. It’s an easy recipe that yields impressive results, ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 6-cup loaf pan (8 1/2 by 4 1/2 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Wire rack
• Cake release tool or knife

Ingredients

Cranberry Bread Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup milk, room temperature
• Zest of 1 large orange, divided
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed and patted dry
• 1/2 Tbsp all-purpose flour

Orange Glaze Ingredients

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice, or to reach desired consistency
• 1 tsp orange zest, reserved from the orange above

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350˚F. Butter a 6-cup loaf pan and dust with flour, tapping out any excess.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a measuring cup, mix together milk, zest of 1 orange (reserve 1 tsp for the glaze), and orange juice. Set aside.

4. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar on medium/high speed for 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs, mixing until well incorporated.

5. Add the flour mixture in two parts, alternating with the milk mixture, mixing on medium/low speed until just incorporated. Scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula as needed.

6. Toss cranberries with 1/2 Tbsp flour, then fold them into the batter. Spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, until golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then use a cake release tool or knife to loosen the edges and transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
• Tossing cranberries with flour prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a nutty twist, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
• Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This bread is a delightful balance of carbohydrates and natural sugars from the cranberries and orange. While indulgent, it provides a source of vitamin C and fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

How do I store the bread? Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze this bread? Absolutely! Wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

There you have it—our Cranberry Orange Bread, a festive treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a breakfast treat, a holiday gift, or a sweet snack, this bread is sure to impress. Give it a try and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear about your baking adventures!