Orange Cranberry Bread

Why Make This Recipe

Orange Cranberry Bread is a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of orange and cranberry. This bread is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even as a festive holiday gift. The bright orange flavor paired with the tartness of cranberries creates a delicious contrast that is sure to please your taste buds.

Making this bread is not only simple but also rewarding. It fills your kitchen with an uplifting aroma as it bakes, making it a cozy addition to any home. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is straightforward and requires only basic ingredients. It’s an ideal recipe to bring a bit of cheer to your day or to share with friends and family.

How to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

Making Orange Cranberry Bread is an easy and satisfying process. Follow the steps below to enjoy this fruity and flavorful delight.

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent the bread from sticking.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mixture is the base of the bread and will give it structure.

3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup of orange juice, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 tablespoon of grated orange zest. Stir these wet ingredients together until well mixed.

4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Combine everything until just mixed. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the bread dense.

5. Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries into the batter. This step adds the delicious tartness of the cranberries to the bread.

6. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top so that it bakes evenly.

7. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

8. Cool in Pan: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it firm up a little, making it easier to remove.

9. Transfer to Wire Rack: After 10 minutes, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bottom from getting soggy.

10. Make the Glaze: For the glaze, mix 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth.

11. Drizzle Over Bread: Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. This adds a sweet finish to the loaf.

How to Serve Orange Cranberry Bread

Orange Cranberry Bread can be sliced and served in various ways. It is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas:

• Breakfast or Brunch: Serve slices alongside coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat.
• Snacks: Pack slices in lunchboxes or enjoy them as an afternoon snack.
• Dessert: It can also be served as a dessert. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a more indulgent treat.
• Gifting: Wrap the bread in cellophane and tie it with a ribbon to give as a thoughtful homemade gift.

How to Store Orange Cranberry Bread

To keep your Orange Cranberry Bread fresh, you can store it in several ways:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep it fresh and moist.
• Refrigerator: If you want to extend its shelf life, you can wrap it in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When properly wrapped, it can last for up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Tips to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Orange Cranberry Bread turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your ingredients are fresh, especially the cranberries and eggs. Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor of the bread.
• Don’t Over-Mix: Mix until the wet and dry ingredients are just combined. Over-mixing can result in a tough loaf.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet bread, you can reduce the sugar slightly. However, keep in mind this may alter the texture.
• Try Different Cranberries: If you want a different flavor, you can substitute dried cranberries. Just make sure to chop them a little if they are large.
• Add Nuts or Seeds: For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in chopped walnuts or pecans.

Variation

While the original Orange Cranberry Bread recipe is delightful on its own, you can try out some variations to keep things interesting.

• Nutty Additions: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Spices: Experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Citrus Mix: Instead of only orange juice, you can mix in some lemon or lime juice to give a citrus twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour to accommodate gluten-free diets.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in a cup of white or dark chocolate chips for an indulgent treat.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. There is no need to thaw them; just add them straight into the batter.

2. How long does Orange Cranberry Bread stay fresh?

When stored properly, it can stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, and in the freezer for up to three months.

3. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! Orange Cranberry Bread is great for making ahead. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it until you’re ready to serve.

4. What can I serve with this bread?

Orange Cranberry Bread pairs well with coffee, tea, or even brunch dishes. You can also enjoy it with butter or cream cheese spread on top.

5. What if I don’t have orange juice? Can I substitute it?

If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute it with apple juice or a mix of lemon juice and water. However, this will alter the flavor slightly.

6. Is it necessary to glaze the bread?

The glaze adds a nice sweetness and a glossy finish to the bread. However, if you prefer a less sweet option, you can skip the glaze entirely.

7. Can I use a different pan size?

If you use a different pan size, the baking time may vary. Keep an eye on the bread and check for doneness with a toothpick.

With this comprehensive guide, you are ready to bake a delicious loaf of Orange Cranberry Bread. Enjoy the process, share it with loved ones, and relish in the delightful flavors that this bread brings!

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