Orange Cranberry Bread

Why Make This Recipe

Making Orange Cranberry Bread is a delightful way to enjoy a fusion of sweet and tangy flavors that can brighten any day. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a sweet treat with tea or coffee. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just enjoy a homemade bread, this recipe stands out with its vibrant color and refreshing taste.

Packed with fresh cranberries and a zesty kick from orange juice and zest, this bread is not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s simple enough for beginners while providing enough complexity for experienced bakers to appreciate. Moreover, it fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas while baking, creating an inviting atmosphere.

The nutritious ingredients and the option to use fresh or frozen cranberries make it versatile. You can enjoy this lovely bread during the holidays or any time of the year when you crave something sweet and fruity. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover cranberries you may have after the holidays.

How to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

Creating your very own Orange Cranberry Bread is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get perfect results every time.

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread will bake evenly. At the same time, prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it with a bit of butter or non-stick spray.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step combines the dry ingredients evenly, ensuring that your bread rises properly.

3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and grated orange zest. Stir until these ingredients are well mixed. The zest will add a lovely flavor and aroma, making your bread even better.

4. Mix ingredients together: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just mixed. It’s important not to over-mix at this stage; a few lumps are okay. Over-mixing may result in a denser bread.

5. Add cranberries: Gently fold in the cranberries. If you are using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them; you can add them straight to the batter.

6. Transfer to loaf pan: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface.

7. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. To check for doneness, you can insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready. If there’s still batter on the toothpick, let it bake for a few more minutes and check again.

8. Cool the bread: Once done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is important, as it allows the bread to set and makes it easier to slice.

9. Prepare the glaze: While the bread is cooling, mix the powdered sugar with two tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. This will create a delicious glaze that adds sweetness and a final touch of citrus flavor to your bread.

10. Glaze the bread: Once the bread has completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. You can use a spoon or a small whisk to make beautiful patterns. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Orange Cranberry Bread

Orange Cranberry Bread can be served in several delightful ways.

• Slice and serve: The most straightforward way to enjoy this bread is to slice it and serve it as is. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack any time of the day.

• Pair with beverages: This bread goes wonderfully with tea or coffee due to its light sweetness and zesty flavor profile. Consider pairing it with a hot cup of tea or a chilled glass of lemonade for a refreshing treat.

• Toast it up: For a different take, you can toast slices of the bread. Spread a little butter or cream cheese on top, and you’ve got an upgraded breakfast or snack.

• Gourmet twist: Add some whipped cream cheese and a sprinkle of edible flowers for an elegant brunch presentation.

• Gift it: Wrap slices in parchment paper and tie them with twine for a look that makes them perfect for gifting. They make great homemade gifts during the holidays or for friends and family during visits.

How to Store Orange Cranberry Bread

To keep your Orange Cranberry Bread fresh, proper storage is key. Here’s how to do it:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within a couple of days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, it will remain moist and soft.

• Refrigeration: If you want to keep it longer, you can store the bread in the refrigerator. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to help retain moisture. However, do keep in mind that chilling can change the texture slightly.

• Freezing: For long-term storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven.

Tips to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

• Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: Both fresh and frozen cranberries work beautifully in this recipe. If you’re using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Adding them straight into the batter will help keep the bread moisture balanced.

• Choose the Right Flour: Ensure you’re using all-purpose flour for the best results. Whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture and make the bread denser.

• Experiment with Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, feel free to reduce the sugar amount slightly. However, the balance between sour cranberries and the sweet bread is part of its charm.

• Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to give an extra crunch to the bread. Chocolate chips can also be a delightful twist, creating an indulgent treat.

• Check for Doneness: As ovens vary, keep an eye on your bread while it bakes. If your edges start browning too quickly before it’s done in the center, consider tenting it with foil.

Variation

If you’re feeling adventurous or want to customize your Orange Cranberry Bread, here are a few variations to consider:

• Spiced Bread: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.

• Zesty Lemon: Replace half of the orange juice with lemon juice for a lemony twist. You can also substitute lemon zest for orange zest for an alternative flavor.

• Nutty Bread: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts with the cranberries for an extra crunchy texture.

• Chocolate Chip: Substitute some of the cranberries with chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate-orange mix that is sure to please any crowd.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen ones?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries! However, soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes to plump them up, then drain before adding them to the batter, preserving moisture while baking.

2. Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make gluten-free Orange Cranberry Bread, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s designed for baking and follow any guidelines that may come with that product.

3. How can I tell if my bread is properly baked?

To check your bread for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is done. If it comes out with wet batter, it needs more time in the oven.

4. How long does this bread last?

When stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, the bread should last for about 2-3 days. In the refrigerator, it can last a week, and in the freezer, up to three months.

5. Can I add other fruits?

Definitely! You can mix in other fruits, such as blueberries or chopped apples, along with the cranberries to create a mixed-fruit bread.

This simple and bright Orange Cranberry Bread is truly a delightful addition to any meal or occasion. By following the straightforward steps outlined above, you can achieve a perfect result that will please any palate. Happy baking!

Print