Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

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If you love the bright, tangy burst of cranberries combined with the uplifting citrus notes of fresh oranges, then this Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe will become an instant favorite in your home. This bread is tender, moist, and beautifully speckled with juicy cranberries and fragrant orange zest, making every bite an inviting balance of sweet and tart. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert, this treat brings both festive flavors and a touch of homely comfort to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key, and this recipe keeps it simple while ensuring vibrant flavor and a delightful texture. Each element plays an essential role—from the buttery softness to the bright citrus zing and refreshing burst of cranberries.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation giving the bread its soft crumb and structure.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness that perfectly balances tart cranberries.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with acidity for extra lift and tender crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and keeps sweetness in check.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy undertone that elevates the overall taste.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and keeps the bread moist.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds structure for the perfect slice.
• 3/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best): The star citrus element bringing brightness and moisture.
• Zest of 1 large orange: Bursts with intense orange aroma and flavor in every bite.
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped: Offers beautiful color and tangy pops of juicy goodness.
• 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional): Adds delightful crunch and nutty depth.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Gives a subtle sweetness and rounds out the flavors.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your bread comes out effortlessly. This small prep step sets the stage for a perfect bake without sticking worries.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl. This ensures even flavor distribution and a light texture as the leavening agents activate during baking.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Then beat in the egg, followed by the fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. This vibrant wet mixture will infuse your bread with moisture and brightness, making every bite lively and tender.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined — some lumps are perfect! Overmixing can make the bread dense, so a light hand here keeps it fluffy and soft.

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries and Nuts (If Using)

Carefully fold in the chopped cranberries and nuts. The cranberries add festive color and a tart contrast while the nuts contribute a delightful crunch. Make sure they are evenly dispersed throughout the batter for balanced flavor.

Step 6: Prep the Batter for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top. This ensures an even bake and a beautiful golden crust.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If you notice the bread browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes. This prevents over-browning while ensuring the inside cooks through.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to avoid a gummy texture when slicing and to let those beautiful flavors meld.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar instantly elevates this bread, adding a delicate sweetness and a festive touch. For extra flair, a light drizzle of orange glaze made from orange juice and powdered sugar complements the citrus notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with creamy spreads like mascarpone or softened cream cheese, which balance the tartness of the cranberries. Additionally, enjoy it alongside a hot cup of cinnamon-spiced tea or your favorite morning coffee for an ideal cozy combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bread thick and toast it lightly for a warm, crisp texture that highlights the juicy cranberries. You can also transform it into an elegant brunch centerpiece by adding whipped honey butter or layering slices with ricotta and fresh fruit for a fancy treat that guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store the whole loaf in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the bread moist and fresh for up to three days—perfect for quick grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.

Freezing

This Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a fresh-from-the-oven feel anytime you want.

Reheating

To enjoy the bread warm, reheat slices in a toaster oven or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This brings back that soft texture and warms the citrus and cranberry flavors, making it even more inviting.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

You can, but keep in mind dried cranberries are sweeter and lack the juicy burst fresh ones provide. So, you may want to reduce the sugar slightly or soak dried cranberries in orange juice beforehand to add moisture.

Is it necessary to use fresh orange juice and zest?

Fresh orange juice and zest provide the brightest and most vibrant citrus flavor. While bottled juice can work in a pinch, the freshly squeezed stuff truly makes this Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe sing with citrusy goodness.

Can I substitute the nuts or leave them out?

Absolutely! Nuts are optional and can be replaced with your favorite type or omitted altogether if you prefer a nut-free loaf. The bread will still be deliciously moist and flavorful.

What can I do if my bread is browning too quickly during baking?

Simply tent the bread loosely with aluminum foil during the last part of baking to prevent over-browning while allowing the inside to finish cooking evenly.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This swap preserves texture and rise nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe is a true celebration of cozy flavors and simple ingredients coming together to create a treat that feels special but is effortless to make. Whether you’re sharing it with family for breakfast or gifting a loaf to a friend, it’s sure to bring smiles and warm hearts. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to recipe for seasons to come.

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