Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that perfectly balances fruity zest and sweet tartness, this Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine biting into a moist, tender loaf infused with fresh orange zest and pockets of bright cranberries that burst with every bite—pure comfort and joy all wrapped into one. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a festive dessert, this bread is as festive as it is flavorful, making it a must-try recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential in creating the distinctive flavor and texture of this bread. Each one plays a part in making the crumb soft, the taste vibrant, and the overall experience truly special.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to this bread, ensuring the perfect crumb.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise fluffy and light.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness while lifting the flavors.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to complement the tart cranberries.
• 2 large eggs: Bind all ingredients together and add richness.
• ⅓ cup fresh orange juice: Infuses fresh citrus aroma and brightens the loaf.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: Packs a punch of fragrant oils that elevate the orange flavor beautifully.
• ½ cup whole milk or buttermilk: Provides moisture and tenderness to the crumb.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds buttery richness and helps keep the bread moist.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor profile with warm sweetness.
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries: The star ingredient offering bursts of tartness and vibrant color.

How to Make Orange Cranberry 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 releases perfectly after baking. This little prep step sets you up for success.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Combining these ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly, so your bread rises beautifully without any pockets of uneven texture.

Step 3: Beat Sugar and Eggs

In a separate bowl, beat the granulated sugar and eggs until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, which will help give your Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe a lovely lift and tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Stir in the orange zest, fresh orange juice, melted butter, milk or buttermilk, and vanilla extract into the sugar and eggs. Mix these until everything is well combined, and watch as the mixture transforms into a velvety batter packed with citrus goodness.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Remember not to overmix here—you want to keep the batter tender and fluffy.

Step 6: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold in the cranberries with care so they don’t get crushed. A handy tip is to toss frozen cranberries with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter; this prevents them from sinking to the bottom, keeping the cranberries evenly distributed throughout your bread.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures even baking and results in that beautiful golden crust we’re all aiming for.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you notice the bread browning too quickly on top, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to protect it while it finishes baking perfectly inside.

Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying

After baking, let your bread cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it allows the bread to set, making slicing mess-free and maintaining that tender texture.

Step 10: Optional Orange Glaze

If you want to take this Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe to the next level, mix powdered sugar with a splash of fresh orange juice and drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread. It adds a lovely sweet-tart finish and an extra pop of citrus flavor.

How to Serve Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe

Garnishes

For a simple but beautiful finish, consider garnishing slices of this bread with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or thin strips of orange zest. These small touches amplify the citrus charm and make your presentation irresistible.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs delightfully with creamy spreads like butter, mascarpone, or even cream cheese. For a brunch feast, serve it alongside freshly brewed coffee or a cup of warm spiced tea to complement the warm citrus and tart flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving thick slices toasted with a smear of honey and a few fresh cranberries on top for a decadent snack. Alternatively, slice it thin and use it as a base for a fruity breakfast parfait layered with yogurt and fresh berries—such a fun and delicious way to enjoy the bread!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe leftovers keep well at room temperature when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This helps keep the bread moist and prevents it from drying out for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few moments. This makes the butter and glaze even more luscious, almost like it just came out of the oven again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries in this Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just remember to toss them in a little flour before folding into the batter to prevent sinking.

What can I substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use whole milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar added—let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle—then use as a buttermilk substitute.

How do I prevent the cranberries from sinking to the bottom?

Toss the cranberries in a tablespoon of flour to coat them lightly. This simple tip helps suspend the berries evenly throughout the batter during baking.

Can I add nuts to the Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a fantastic addition to add crunch and an earthy depth to your bread. Just fold them in along with the cranberries.

Is this bread suitable for freezing and prepping in advance?

Definitely. This bread freezes beautifully, making it a convenient make-ahead option for busy mornings or holiday gifting.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its bright flavors and tender crumb make it the perfect companion to cozy mornings, casual gatherings, or just a moment when you want to treat yourself. Don’t hesitate to dive in, bake a loaf, and share the joy with those you love—after all, some recipes just bring a little extra sunshine to the ordinary day.

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