Orange Cranberry Bread

Why Make This Recipe

Orange Cranberry Bread is a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor and a hint of tartness from the cranberries. It’s a perfect addition to your breakfast table, an ideal snack for your afternoon tea, or a lovely homemade gift for friends and family. This bread is not only easy to make but also delivers a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. The combination of the sweetness from the cranberries and the zesty orange creates a lovely balance. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use fresh or frozen cranberries when they are in season or even when they’re not!

How to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

Making Orange Cranberry Bread is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps to create a delicious loaf that can be enjoyed any time of day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2-3 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan to ensure your bread comes out easily after baking.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This will be your dry mix.
3. In another medium bowl, mix the orange juice, vegetable oil, egg, and grated orange zest. These are your wet ingredients.
4. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients. Stir just until they are mixed together. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Gently fold in the cranberries using a spatula or spoon. This adds the tartness that balances the sweetness of the bread.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top for an even bake and nice appearance.
7. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
8. Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This helps keep the shape as you transfer it. Then, move it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of orange juice. Mix until smooth and drizzle over the cooled bread for a sweet touch.

How to Serve Orange Cranberry Bread

This flavorful bread can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few ideas on how to serve it:

• Breakfast Delight: Slice a piece of Orange Cranberry Bread and enjoy it with butter or cream cheese for a delicious breakfast.
• Snack Time: It makes a perfect snack with a cup of tea or coffee. You can enjoy it plain or with a smear of your favorite spread.
• Dessert Option: Serve it as a dessert after lunch or dinner. A warm slice pairs wonderfully with ice cream or whipped cream.
• Gift Idea: Wrap slices of the bread in parchment paper and tie them with a ribbon for a homemade gift. It’s a thoughtful gesture that friends and family will appreciate.

How to Store Orange Cranberry Bread

Storing Orange Cranberry Bread is quite simple, and it helps keep it fresh for longer. Here are some tips on how to store your delicious bread:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within a few days, store it in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep it at room temperature to maintain the best flavor and texture.

• Refrigerate: If you want to extend the life of your bread, you can store it in the refrigerator. Wrap it well to avoid drying out, and it should last for up to a week.

• Freezing: You can freeze this bread for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

Tips to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

To ensure your Orange Cranberry Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Measure Accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for both dry and liquid ingredients. For dry ingredients, spoon the flour into the cup and level it off with a knife for the best results.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.

• Freshness Matters: Use fresh cranberries when possible for the best flavor. If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding; this helps prevent excess moisture in the batter.

• Zest it Up: Make sure to use fresh orange zest. It adds a bright flavor to the bread that enhances the overall taste.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early. If you insert a toothpick and it comes out with a few moist crumbs, that’s okay; it will continue baking as it cools.

Variation

If you want to explore different flavors or textures in your Orange Cranberry Bread, consider these variations:

• Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture.
• Spice it Up: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an added warmth to the bread.
• Cocoa Twist: For a chocolate lover’s version, add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter.
• Dried Fruits: Mix in some chopped dried apricots or raisins along with cranberries for a fruity twist.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried cranberries for fresh. However, keep in mind that dried cranberries are sweeter, so consider reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe slightly.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge until you are ready to use it. Just give it a quick stir before drizzling over the bread.

What can I use if I don’t have orange juice?

If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute it with other citrus juices such as lemon juice or grapefruit juice. However, the flavor will be slightly different.

How long will this bread last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Orange Cranberry Bread can last up to a week at room temperature and up to three months in the freezer.

Enjoy making and sharing your homemade Orange Cranberry Bread! It’s a timeless treat that brings smiles to everyone who tries it.

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