Irresistible Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe to Savor

Cranberry Orange Bread is like a warm hug on a chilly day, filling your kitchen with the sweet, tangy aroma of fresh cranberries and zesty oranges. Imagine slicing into a golden loaf, the soft bread giving way to bursts of juicy cranberry goodness and refreshing citrus notes—it’s pure heaven on earth. For more inspiration, check out this Easter Shortbread Cookies recipe.

This delightful bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a cherished memory from my childhood. My grandmother would whip up this Cranberry Orange Bread every holiday season, filling our home with laughter and the irresistible scent of baking. Pumpkin Pull Apart Bread Whether it’s Thanksgiving brunch or a cozy winter evening, this bread transforms any occasion into something special.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cranberries: Use plump, firm cranberries for the best flavor; they provide that delightful tartness.
• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your bread; sift it for a lighter texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tart cranberries; adjust to taste if you prefer less sweetness.
• Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest brings out the citrus flavor; don’t skimp on this!
• Eggs: They help bind everything together; ensure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.
• Baking Powder: Essential for making your bread rise beautifully; check expiration dates to ensure potency.

For the Topping:

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and visual appeal; optional but recommended for that bakery-style finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a loaf pan and grease it lightly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and orange zest until well combined. It should smell fresh and zesty—like you’re walking through an orange grove!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat eggs and then add melted butter (cooled) and milk. Mix well until everything blends harmoniously—think of it as creating a beautiful symphony of flavors.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense bread! Fold in those gorgeous fresh cranberries until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake That Loaf

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake in your preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature—either way, it’s delightful!

You now have a scrumptious Cranberry Orange Bread that’s perfect for sharing—or hoarding all to yourself! Enjoy each bite filled with juicy cranberries and zesty orange goodness!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you mix the dry ingredients. Once the batter is ready, pour it into the pan and pop it in the oven. Bake until golden brown, then cool before slicing. Timing is key for that perfect loaf.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cranberries for blueberries or add nuts for extra crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile too. Make this cranberry orange bread uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover cranberry orange bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm slices in a microwave or toaster oven for a few seconds until just warm.

I still remember the first time I made cranberry orange bread for my family’s holiday brunch. The smiles on their faces as they took the first bite made all the effort worthwhile!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Cranberry Orange Bread?

To make Cranberry Orange Bread, you will need fresh or dried cranberries, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, orange zest, orange juice, eggs, and butter. Ensure the cranberries are well-distributed throughout the batter for a delightful burst of flavor. Cranberry Walnut Turkey Burgers You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. This combination creates a moist and flavorful bread that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.

How long does it take to bake Cranberry Orange Bread?

Cranberry Orange Bread typically takes about 55 to 65 minutes to bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). However, baking times can vary based on your oven and the size of your loaf pan. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Can I freeze Cranberry Orange Bread?

Yes, you can freeze Cranberry Orange Bread! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy later, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes. This makes it an excellent make-ahead option for holiday gatherings or breakfast treats.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Cranberry Orange Bread?

To enhance the flavor of your Cranberry Orange Bread, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You can also incorporate vanilla extract or almond extract for added depth. If you’re using dried cranberries, soak them in orange juice beforehand to plump them up and intensify their sweetness. These small adjustments will elevate your bread to new heights!

Conclusion for Cranberry Orange Bread:

Cranberry Orange Bread is a deliciously moist treat that combines tart cranberries with zesty orange flavors. The recipe is simple and offers flexibility with ingredient variations. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as leftovers, this bread remains a delightful addition to any meal. Gingerbread Hot Cocoa Pair it with your favorite beverage for an ideal snack or breakfast option. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful quick bread with family and friends!

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Cranberry Orange Bread

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• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful quick bread that beautifully marries tart cranberries with zesty orange flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or a cozy breakfast, this moist and flavorful loaf will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can impress family and friends with this vibrant centerpiece that’s delicious any time of year.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 2 cups fresh cranberries (halved)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, orange zest, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg; mix in melted butter and milk until well combined.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry mixture; stir gently until just combined. Fold in cranberries.
5. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan; smooth the top. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Breakfast/Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg