This Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat that brings together the tartness of cranberries and the bright flavor of oranges. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this bread is moist and dense, making it ideal for any occasion. The sweet orange glaze adds a beautiful finish, ensuring every bite is a burst of flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on your own, this recipe will impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor – The combination of fresh cranberries and vibrant orange zest creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat – Enjoy it as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert.
• Perfect for Sharing – This recipe yields 10 servings, making it great for gatherings or sharing with friends and family.
• Moist and Dense – The buttermilk ensures the bread stays moist while adding richness to the texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having the right equipment helps make baking enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Loaf pan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl – A large mixing bowl provides enough space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Measuring cups – Accurate measurements are key to baking success, ensuring consistent results every time.
• Loaf pan – A good loaf pan helps shape the bread perfectly while ensuring even cooking throughout.

this recipe

Ingredients

This Cranberry Orange Bread is incredibly moist, deliciously dense, loaded with orange flavor and juicy cranberries, and finished with a sweet orange glaze. Just 15 minutes to prep!

For the Bread

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ½ cup canola oil (or other neutral tasting oil)
• ½ cup orange juice
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 tablespoons orange juice

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease your loaf pan lightly with oil or use parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt

Whisk until well blended and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Orange zest
3. Buttermilk
4. Canola oil
5. Orange juice
6. Eggs
7. Vanilla extract

Whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Cranberries

Fold in fresh cranberries gently into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake in preheated oven for about 75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While the bread is cooling, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 9: Glaze Your Bread

Once the bread has cooled slightly, drizzle it with your sweet orange glaze for an extra touch of flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Orange Bread, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bread

Cranberry Orange Bread offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it a versatile treat for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your enjoyment of this delicious bread.

Breakfast Delight

• Serve toasted slices with a pat of butter for a warm morning treat.
• Pair with yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.

Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee to complement the citrus notes.
• Spread cream cheese on a slice for an extra creamy texture.

Dessert Option

• Top with whipped cream for a light dessert after dinner.
• Drizzle warm slices with additional orange glaze for added sweetness.

Festive Presentation

• Slice into thick pieces and arrange on a platter as part of a holiday spread.
• Garnish with fresh cranberries and orange slices for visual appeal.

How to Perfect Cranberry Orange Bread

To ensure your Cranberry Orange Bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide the best flavor and texture. Ensure they are bright and firm.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the bread tender. Overmixing can lead to toughness.
• Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is fully baked.
• Cool completely before glazing: Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before adding the glaze for better adherence.
• Store properly: Keep leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Orange Bread

Cranberry Orange Bread pairs well with various side dishes that can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bread.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a creamy contrast that complements the bread’s texture.

3. Cheese Board
   Include creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside nuts and dried fruits for variety.

4. Spinach Salad
   A light spinach salad with citrus vinaigrette can add brightness to your meal while remaining refreshing.

5. Nut Butter Spread
   Almond or cashew butter spread on a slice adds protein and richness that pairs beautifully with cranberries.

6. Herb-Infused Tea
   A cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, provides warmth and enhances the overall experience.

7. Savory Scones
   Pairing with savory scones can create an interesting contrast in flavors while keeping your palate engaged.

8. Vegetable Soup
   A bowl of warm vegetable soup creates a comforting meal that balances sweet and savory elements nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cranberry Orange Bread, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and spices. Stale ingredients can affect the rise and flavor of your bread.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep your bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can result in a dense texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring tools for dry and liquid ingredients. Inaccurate measurements can lead to imbalanced flavors and textures.
• Skipping the glaze: The sweet orange glaze adds a delightful finish. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of the bread.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Keep an eye on the time and doneness by using a toothpick. Baking too long can dry out your bread, while underbaking leaves it gooey.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cranberry Orange Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Cranberry Orange Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Orange Bread:

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

Adding extra orange zest or using fresh-squeezed orange juice can elevate the flavor significantly.

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen cranberries work well; however, do not thaw them before adding them to the batter.

What is the best way to serve Cranberry Orange Bread?

This bread pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee. You can also enjoy it as a breakfast option or dessert.

How should I store leftover Cranberry Orange Bread?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat that combines moistness with a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. It’s versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack throughout the day. Feel free to customize it with nuts or other fruits for added texture!

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Cranberry Orange Bread

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

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Description

Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful fusion of tart cranberries and vibrant orange zest, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert, this bread stands out with its rich texture and sweet orange glaze. With only 15 minutes of preparation time, you can easily whip up this impressive dish that yields generous servings, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends. The sweet glaze not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing finish to each slice.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ½ cup canola oil
• ½ cup orange juice
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 tablespoons orange juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, orange zest, buttermilk, oil, orange juice, eggs, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir gently until just combined.
5. Fold in cranberries carefully and pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake for about 75 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. While cooling, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice for the glaze; drizzle over the bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 65g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor; frozen cranberries can be used without thawing. To enhance flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or substituting part of the sugar with brown sugar for additional depth.