Orange Cranberry Bread

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Why make this recipe

Orange Cranberry Bread is a delightful treat that combines the bright flavors of citrus with the tartness of cranberries. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a dessert. The vibrant colors and aromatic scent make this bread a wonderful addition to any table, especially during festive seasons or when you want to add a touch of warmth to your home. The balance of sweetness and tartness creates a lovely harmony that will please any palate. Plus, it’s quite simple to make, requiring basic ingredients that you might already have in your pantry.

How to make Orange Cranberry Bread

Making Orange Cranberry Bread is a straightforward process that even beginners can master. Here’s a step-by-step guide that will help you create this delicious loaf right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

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

Directions

Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the bread evenly. While the oven heats, you can prepare your loaf pan.
Prepare the loaf pan: Grease a standard loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking. You can use cooking spray, butter, or oil. This step is essential for easy removal after baking.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first helps to distribute the baking powder evenly, ensuring your bread rises properly.
Add cranberries: Stir in the chopped fresh cranberries. These will provide bursts of flavor throughout the bread. Be sure to chop them into smaller pieces, so they distribute well in the batter.
Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, grated orange zest, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients until they are well combined. The orange zest adds a powerful citrus aroma that will make your bread irresistible.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; some lumps are okay. Over-mixing can lead to dense bread, and we want it to be light and fluffy.
Transfer to the pan: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
Bake the bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes. You can test if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
Cool the bread: Once the bread is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to remove from the pan. After 10 minutes, carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the glaze: While the bread cools, you can make the glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with the 2 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more orange juice to reach your desired consistency.
Glaze the bread: Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let it set for a few moments, then slice and enjoy!

How to serve Orange Cranberry Bread

Orange Cranberry Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways. You can serve it on its own or with butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or afternoon snacks. You could also consider serving it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist. For special occasions, slice the bread and arrange it on a platter. It will look beautiful and inviting, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

How to store Orange Cranberry Bread

To keep your Orange Cranberry Bread fresh, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep the bread for a longer time, consider freezing it. Slice the bread, place it in a freezer-safe bag, and it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven.

Tips to make Orange Cranberry Bread

Use fresh cranberries: Fresh cranberries give the best flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use dried cranberries instead, but reduce the sugar slightly since dried cranberries are sweeter.
Don’t overmix: It’s crucial to mix the batter only until the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
Check doneness: Always check your bread for doneness around the 50-minute mark. Ovens can vary, and you don’t want to overbake it.
Zest nicely: When grating your orange zest, avoid the white pith as it can add bitterness. Just the outer orange part will give you the best flavor.
Add nuts or seeds: For a delightful crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Variation

For a twist on the classic Orange Cranberry Bread, you can try adding chocolate chips for a sweeter version. The combination of chocolate and orange is always a winner. You could also enhance the flavor by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. Experimenting with different types of citrus juice, such as lemon or lime, can also provide a unique flavor profile.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure not to thaw them before adding them to the batter, as this can make the bread too wet.

Q2: Can I make mini loaves instead of one large one?
Absolutely! If you use mini loaf pans, adjust the baking time. They will typically bake in about 20-25 minutes depending on your oven.

Q3: How can I make the glaze thinner?
If you want a thinner glaze, simply add more orange juice until you reach your desired consistency. Just remember that a thicker glaze will create a more substantial layer on top.

Q4: Is this bread suitable for freezing?
Yes, Orange Cranberry Bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic or foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.

Q5: Can I omit the glaze?
Yes, you can certainly enjoy the bread without the glaze. It will still be delicious and flavorful on its own. The glaze adds a sweet finishing touch but isn’t necessary.

In conclusion, Orange Cranberry Bread is a delightful and straightforward recipe that brings together the bright flavors of citrus and tart cranberries. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quiet morning at home or a festive gathering. This bread is not just easy to make but also a treat that everyone will love. With its beautiful presentation and delicious taste, it will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.