Cranberry Orange Bread

Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful combination of tart cranberries and sweet, citrusy orange flavors. This moist and tender loaf is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With its bright flavors and soft texture, this bread is a holiday favorite but can be enjoyed year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor – The zesty orange pairs perfectly with the tangy cranberries for a balanced and refreshing taste.
• Moist and Tender – Thanks to the right blend of ingredients, this bread has a soft, rich texture.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to any home baker.
• Versatile – Serve it warm with butter, toasted with cream cheese, or enjoy it as is.
• Great for Gifting – A beautifully baked loaf makes a thoughtful homemade present during the holidays or special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Orange zest
• Fresh cranberries (or dried cranberries)
• Eggs
• Orange juice
• Vegetable oil
• Vanilla extract
• Optional: chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients – In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the orange juice, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients – Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in Cranberries – Gently fold in the cranberries (and nuts if using), ensuring even distribution.
6. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool – Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Glazed Version – Drizzle with a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh orange juice.
• Healthier Option – Use whole wheat flour or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Nut-Free – Skip the nuts if you have allergies or prefer a smoother texture.
• Chocolate Twist – Add white chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Spiced Up – Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator – Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezer – Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating – Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast for a crisp texture.

FAQs

How do I prevent my cranberries from sinking?

Toss them in a bit of flour before adding them to the batter to help distribute them evenly.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but soak them in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes before adding them to prevent dryness.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

What can I use instead of orange juice?

Lemon juice can work, but it will change the flavor profile. You can also use milk for a more neutral taste.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Absolutely! Just add them straight from the freezer without thawing to prevent excessive moisture.

What type of nuts work best in this recipe?

Walnuts and pecans complement the flavors well, but you can experiment with almonds or hazelnuts.

Can I make this into muffins?

Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.

Why is my bread too dry?

Overbaking or using too much flour can cause dryness. Make sure to measure ingredients accurately and check doneness with a toothpick.

How can I make this bread dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but check ingredient labels to ensure compliance.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans, adjusting bake time as needed.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful and flavorful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven, as a holiday gift, or as a morning pick-me-up, this recipe is sure to impress. Try different variations to customize it to your taste, and enjoy every bite of this delicious homemade bread!

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