Cranberry Orange Bread
A Delightful Twist on a Classic Treat
I still remember the first time I made cranberry orange bread—its bright, sunny flavors brought a smile to everyone at the breakfast table. This recipe marries the tartness of cranberries with the zesty vibrancy of fresh orange juice, creating a loaf that’s not just delicious but also visually stunning. Perfect for family gatherings or as a thoughtful gift, this bread embodies warmth and care.
What Makes This Recipe Special
There are countless reasons to whip up this delightful cranberry orange bread. It’s incredibly simple to make—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. It’s a budget-friendly treat that brings a cheerful pop of color and flavor to any occasion. Imagine serving this at a holiday brunch, where its enticing aroma will draw family and friends to the kitchen.
“This cranberry orange bread has become a family favorite! It’s always a hit during the holidays, and I love how easy it is to make. The glaze adds just the right touch!” – Emily R.
Preparing Cranberry Orange Bread
Making cranberry orange bread is straightforward and gratifying. You’ll combine essential ingredients, whisking them together to create a delightful batter. Here’s how it comes together:
- You’ll start by preheating your oven, ensuring it’s cozy and ready to bake your loaf to perfection.
- Gather your dry ingredients in one bowl, while your wet ingredients mix in another.
- Combine both mixtures, gently folding in cranberries for that burst of flavor you’ll love in each slice.
- Bake until golden brown, then finish with a simple, sweet glaze that brings everything together.
What You’ll Need
To create this mouthwatering bread, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (or feel free to use dried cranberries)
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon orange juice (for glaze)
Looking for substitutions? You can swap sugar for a sugar alternative or choose melted butter for vegetable oil to experiment with flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps for a delicious loaf:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and grated orange peel.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until incorporated. Gently fold in cranberries.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with a tablespoon of orange juice until smooth and drizzled over the cooled bread.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
There’s something special about how cranberry orange bread makes its way to the table! Serve thick slices at brunch with a side of whipped butter for spreading, or pair it with a cup of tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. You might even consider adding a fruit salad or a yogurt parfait as a complement to the citrus flavor.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To keep your cranberry orange bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it to extend its shelf life, although it may become slightly denser. If you want to preserve it for longer, slice the bread and freeze it in a zip-top bag for up to three months. Make sure to thaw it before serving!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of fresh and dried cranberries.
- Don’t skip on the glaze—it adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the bread’s flavor.
- Ensure not to overmix your batter; a few lumps are fine. This helps maintain a delightful texture.
Creative Twists
Want to try something different? Experiment with these variations:
- Add chopped nuts or a handful of chocolate chips for an indulgent flair.
- Swap out cranberries for blueberries for a delicious twist that is equally enticing.
- Substitute some of the orange juice with lemon juice for a unique tang.
Your Questions Answered
How long does the preparation take?
You can expect about 15-20 minutes for prep, and the baking will take about 50-60 minutes. Perfect for a busy morning!
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes! You can use a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water equals one egg) or commercial egg replacers.
What’s the best way to glaze the bread?
Once the bread has fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top for an appealing finish. Use a whisk to ensure the glaze is smooth and easy to pour.
This cranberry orange bread not only stands out for its flavor but also its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re sharing it around the table or enjoying a quiet moment to yourself, this recipe is bound to bring joy!
Cranberry Orange Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and grated orange peel.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until incorporated. Gently fold in cranberries.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with a tablespoon of orange juice until smooth and drizzle over the cooled bread.
