Mandarin Orange and Cranberry Muffin Bread

There’s something utterly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. Our Mandarin Orange and Cranberry Muffin Bread is a delightful twist on a classic quick bread, offering a burst of citrus and berry goodness in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat or a midday snack, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This muffin bread is incredibly moist, thanks to the juicy mandarin oranges and tart cranberries. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors creates a perfect balance that delights the taste buds. It’s an easy recipe that requires minimal effort, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros. Plus, it’s a versatile loaf that can be served fresh or frozen for later enjoyment.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Loaf pan (consider using a larger loaf pan or multiple smaller pans)
• Cooling rack
• Skewer or toothpick for testing doneness

Ingredients

• 2 cups self-rising flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh whole cranberries
• 11 oz can mandarin oranges, drained

Step-by-step Instructions for Preparing the Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and sugar.
3. Add the melted butter, beaten egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Gently fold in the cranberries and mandarin oranges to the batter.
5. Butter your loaf pan generously to prevent sticking, then pour the batter into the pan. Spread it evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Once baked, remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a cooling rack.

Tips for Success

• If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them; just fold them into the batter directly.
• Consider using multiple smaller loaf pans if you have excess batter to avoid overflow during baking.
• Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary slightly depending on your oven and pan size.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a nutty twist, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. You can also experiment with different fruits, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a unique flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact nutritional values can vary, this bread is a good source of vitamin C from the mandarin oranges and provides fiber from the cranberries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use canned cranberries? It’s best to use fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe to maintain the texture and flavor.

How should I store the bread? Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze it for up to three months.

Can I substitute the self-rising flour? If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can use all-purpose flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Conclusion

This Mandarin Orange and Cranberry Muffin Bread is a must-try for anyone who loves the combination of citrus and berries. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. We invite you to give it a try and share your baking adventures with us. Enjoy!