Orange Cranberry Bread

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Why Make This Recipe

Orange Cranberry Bread is not just a delightful treat; it brings the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that can brighten your day. This recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. The combination of fresh cranberries and vibrant orange zest creates a refreshing taste that feels both festive and comforting. It makes a wonderful breakfast, snack, or even a dessert option. Baking this bread fills your home with a delicious aroma that invites everyone to gather around the kitchen.

Whether you’re looking for a way to impress guests at a holiday gathering or simply want to enjoy a homemade loaf with your morning coffee, this bread is a great choice. Plus, it’s visually appealing with its glaze and the glossy berries peeking through, making it perfect for gifting or serving at brunch.

When you make this Orange Cranberry Bread, you’re not just creating a dish; you’re crafting lasting memories. The simple act of baking can be therapeutic. The warmth from the oven and the scent of citrus and sugar wafting through your home can make everyone feel cozy and happy.

How to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

Making Orange Cranberry Bread is a straightforward process that requires just a few steps. You don’t need to be a baking expert to pull this off successfully. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients

To make Orange Cranberry Bread, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
1 orange (zested and juiced)
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Orange Cranberry Bread:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, you can prepare your loaf pan. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the bread from sticking.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. It’s important to mix these ingredients well to ensure even distribution of the baking powder and salt.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the zest and juice of 1 orange, 1/2 cup of orange juice, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mixing the wet ingredients in a separate bowl allows for better integration when combined with the dry ingredients.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread. Once combined, fold in the 1 cup of cranberries until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes evenly.
Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
Prepare the Glaze: While the bread is baking, you can mix the glaze. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of orange juice. Stir until smooth. This glaze will add a sweet, tangy finish to your bread.
Cool and Glaze: Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, drizzle the glaze over the top of the bread before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Orange Cranberry Bread

Serving Orange Cranberry Bread can be a fun and festive affair. Here are some ways to enjoy this delicious treat:

For Breakfast: Serve slices of this sweet bread with a pat of butter or cream cheese. The smoothness complements the texture of the bread perfectly.
At Brunch: Pair the bread with fresh fruit and yogurt for a delightful brunch spread. You could also serve it alongside scrambled eggs or a frittata for a complete meal.
As a Snack: This bread makes a great afternoon snack. Slice it up and have it with a cup of tea or coffee.
For Dessert: Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a sweet ending to your meal.
Gifting: Wrap slices in parchment paper or put them in a decorative bag to share with friends and family. This homemade gift is sure to bring smiles!

How to Store Orange Cranberry Bread

To keep your Orange Cranberry Bread fresh and delicious, it’s essential to store it properly. Here are some tips for storing this tasty treat:

Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within a few days, store it at room temperature. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep moisture in and prevent it from drying out.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the bread. However, keep in mind that refrigeration might change the texture slightly. Be sure to wrap the bread well to limit exposure to air.
Freezing: If you need to keep the bread for an extended period, freezing is a good option. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let it thaw at room temperature or reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

Tips to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

Here are some helpful tips for making your Orange Cranberry Bread as delightful as possible:

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh cranberries when possible. They provide a burst of flavor and a lovely texture. If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding; this helps them hold their shape during baking.
Zesting: When zesting the orange, make sure to use just the outer layer of the peel. Avoid the white pith as it is bitter.
Add Nuts: For extra crunch and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the batter. About 1/2 cup should do the trick.
Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing the wet and dry ingredients together. Overmixing can result in a tough texture. Stir until just combined.

Variation

Orange Cranberry Bread is versatile and can be adjusted to fit different tastes. Here are some variations you might consider:

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure that the baking powder you use is gluten-free as well.
Spiced Version: Add some cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm spice flavor. About 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the taste.
Dried Fruit: If you prefer a sweeter version, you can replace cranberries with dried cranberries or raisins. This will enhance sweetness and provide a chewy texture.
Orange Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of a simple glaze, you can make a cream cheese frosting by using cream cheese, powdered sugar, and orange juice. It creates a richer topping.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries as a substitute for fresh ones. Keep in mind that dried cranberries are usually sweeter, so you might want to reduce the amount of sugar slightly in the recipe.

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done. If batter sticks to it, let the bread bake for a few more minutes.

Can I add more orange flavor to the bread?

Absolutely! In addition to orange zest and juice, you can add a touch of orange extract to enhance the flavor. About 1/2 teaspoon should be enough.

Is it necessary to glaze the bread?

The glaze is optional but adds a lovely finish to the bread. If you prefer a less sweet option, you can enjoy the bread plain or sprinkle it with powdered sugar for a lighter touch.

How long will the bread stay fresh?

If stored properly, Orange Cranberry Bread will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days at room temperature, up to a week in the refrigerator, and can be frozen for up to three months.

Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful Orange Cranberry Bread! It may just become a favorite in your home.