Orange Cranberry Bread

why make this recipe

Orange Cranberry Bread is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright, zesty flavor of oranges. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert. The beautiful combination of flavors and the moist, tender crumb make this bread a favorite for many. It’s also a great way to use up any extra cranberries you may have, whether they are fresh or frozen.

This bread is not just tasty, but it brings a warm, homemade feel to your kitchen. The aroma of cranberries and oranges baking together fills the air as this bread is made, creating a cozy setting. It can be enjoyed with butter, cream cheese, or even on its own. This makes it an excellent option for holiday gatherings, brunches, or just a regular day when you want something sweet and satisfying.

Moreover, making Orange Cranberry Bread at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor. Unlike store-bought bread, homemade bread is free from preservatives and artificial flavors, making it a healthier choice for you and your family.

With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, it is a recipe that is suitable for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cooks. The sense of accomplishment you get from baking your bread cannot be understated. Plus, it serves as a wonderful gift to share with family and friends, spreading joy through food.

how to make Orange Cranberry Bread

Making Orange Cranberry Bread is straightforward and requires only a few simple steps. Here’s a breakdown of how to prepare this delicious treat.

Ingredients:

To make Orange Cranberry Bread, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick after baking.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure even distribution.

3. Add Cranberries: Stir in the chopped cranberries until they are well coated with the dry mixture. This will help prevent them from sinking to the bottom while baking.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, grated orange peel, and vanilla extract. Make sure these wet ingredients are combined thoroughly.

5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

6. Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely on the rack.

9. Make the Glaze (Optional): If you want to add a glaze, mix some powdered sugar with a little orange juice until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled bread for an added touch of sweetness.

how to serve Orange Cranberry Bread

Serving Orange Cranberry Bread can be a delightful experience. You can slice it into thick pieces and serve it plain, allowing the natural flavors to shine through. If you’d like to enhance the taste, consider spreading a thin layer of butter or cream cheese on each slice. This adds a rich, creamy texture that beautifully complements the tartness of the cranberries and the zing of the orange.

This bread is also excellent as part of a breakfast spread alongside dishes like scrambled eggs, yogurt, or fruit. For a cozy afternoon treat, serve it with a cup of tea or coffee. The flavors of the Orange Cranberry Bread pair wonderfully with warm beverages, making it an excellent choice for brunch or snacks.

Additionally, it can be served as a dessert. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat that everyone will love. You can even toast the slices for a warm, crunchy variation that enhances the bread’s flavors.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Orange Cranberry Bread is sure to be a hit among family and friends!

how to store Orange Cranberry Bread

Proper storage of Orange Cranberry Bread is essential to keep it fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here are a few tips on how to store this delightful bread:

1. Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the bread within a few days, store it at room temperature. Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. This will help keep the bread moist and prevent it from drying out.

2. Refrigeration: If you won’t be eating the bread within a few days, consider refrigerating it. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the refrigerator. Note that refrigeration can change the texture of the bread, making it a bit denser.

3. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the Orange Cranberry Bread. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature. If you’d like, you can warm it in the oven before serving for a fresh-baked experience.

4. Slicing Before Storing: If you plan to freeze the bread, consider slicing it before you store it. This allows you to take out only the pieces you need without having to defrost the entire loaf.

tips to make Orange Cranberry Bread

To help you master the art of baking Orange Cranberry Bread, here are some helpful tips to consider:

1. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are chopped and not clumped together, as clumping can affect how evenly they distribute in the batter.

2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until everything is moistened. Overmixing can cause the bread to become tough.

3. Use a Toothpick Test: To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is done.

4. Let It Cool: Ensure that the bread cools completely before slicing. This helps the texture set and makes for cleaner cuts.

5. Add More Flavor: For extra flavor, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. Flavored extracts, like almond or coconut, can also enhance the overall taste.

6. Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with add-ins like chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) or other dried fruits for variations of this classic bread.

variation

Orange Cranberry Bread is versatile, and there are many variations you can try to customize it to your taste. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture and added flavor.

2. Dried Fruit: Substitute some of the fresh cranberries with chopped dried apricots or cherries for a different flavor profile.

3. Chocolate Chip Twist: Mix in some chocolate chips to create a sweet and tart chocolate-orange combination that will delight chocolate lovers.

4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this bread gluten-free. Ensure the baking powder is also gluten-free.

5. Orange Zest: Increase the amount of grated orange peel for a more intense orange flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in Orange Cranberry Bread. There is no need to thaw them beforehand; just chop them and add them directly to the batter.

2. How long does the bread last?

When stored properly at room temperature, Orange Cranberry Bread lasts for about 3-5 days. If refrigerated, it can last for a week, and in the freezer, it can stay good for up to three months.

3. Can I make this bread without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Alternatively, unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas can also be used as egg replacements.

4. Is this bread suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Orange Cranberry Bread makes a lovely gift. You can wrap it in decorative plastic wrap or place it in a nice gift box, making it a thoughtful present for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

5. Can I make mini loaves instead of one large loaf?

Yes, you can divide the batter into mini loaf pans. Reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Making Orange Cranberry Bread is both satisfying and rewarding. With its vibrant flavors and warm aroma, this delicious bread is sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or just to enjoy with your morning coffee, you can’t go wrong with this simple and delightful recipe. Enjoy your baking!

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