Orange Cranberry Bread

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries with the bright zest of oranges, then Orange Cranberry Bread is a must-try. This bread is not just beautiful to look at; it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. The combination of fresh cranberries and orange juice makes it a lovely option for holiday gatherings, brunches, or simply to brighten your day.

The sweet glaze drizzled over the top adds a delicious finishing touch that everyone will love. Plus, making this bread is quite simple and requires just a few ingredients, most of which you may already have in your pantry. With its inviting aroma and moist texture, this Orange Cranberry Bread will surely become a favorite in your household.

How to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

Making Orange Cranberry Bread is straightforward and rewarding. Follow this simple guide to create a loaf that will impress your friends and family.

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 cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons orange zest
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon orange juice (for glaze)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This helps prevent the bread from sticking to the pan and makes it easier to remove once baked.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This is your dry mixture that will give the bread structure and sweetness.

3. Add the chopped cranberries to the dry mixture and stir gently to coat them with flour. Coating the cranberries with flour helps to distribute them evenly throughout the bread and prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

4. In another bowl, mix together the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and orange zest until everything is combined. This is your wet mixture, which will bring moisture and flavor to the bread.

5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the bread dense. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; this will help keep the bread light and fluffy.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. This ensures that the bread bakes evenly.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. As the bread bakes, it will rise beautifully and fill your home with a delicious aroma.

8. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing the bread to cool will help it set properly.

9. For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar with the orange juice in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread for that extra sweetness and shine.

How to Serve Orange Cranberry Bread

Serving Orange Cranberry Bread is a joy in itself. Once it’s cooled and glazed, you can slice it into thick pieces. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

• As Breakfast: Enjoy a slice or two for breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea. You can even toast it lightly for a warm and comforting start to your day.

• As a Snack: Serve it as a mid-morning or afternoon snack. The sweet and tart flavors provide a perfect pick-me-up.

• For Brunch: This bread makes a fantastic addition to any brunch spread. Pair it with butter or cream cheese for an even more indulgent experience.

• As a Dessert: Slices of this bread can also be served as a light dessert, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

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

How to Store Orange Cranberry Bread

To keep your Orange Cranberry Bread fresh, it is essential to store it properly:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat 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 to keep it moist.

• Refrigerator: If you want to keep it longer, consider placing it in the refrigerator. Note that refrigerating bread can sometimes dry it out, so be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic.

• Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or a freezer bag. When stored properly, it can last for up to three months. Thaw it at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Tips to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

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

• Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries will yield the best flavor and texture. If fresh cranberries are not available, you can use frozen ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. Remove from the oven as soon as it comes out clean.

• Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less powdered sugar. You can also add a touch of vanilla extract for added flavor.

• Add Nuts or Seeds: For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. They complement the flavors well.

Variation

While the classic Orange Cranberry Bread is delicious on its own, there are endless variations to try. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add Spices: Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can give the bread a warm and cozy flavor.

• Make it Glut Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

• Combine Fruits: Experiment by adding other fruits like blueberries or chopped apples along with cranberries for a mixed fruit bread.

• Orange Poppy Seed Bread: For a lovely twist, add poppy seeds to the batter for an attractive look and additional flavor.

FAQs

How long will Orange Cranberry Bread last?

Orange Cranberry Bread will last about 3-5 days at room temperature. If stored in the refrigerator, it can last up to a week, and if frozen properly, it can last for several months.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available. However, be sure to adjust the sugar level, as dried cranberries are often sweeter than fresh ones.

Can I freeze Orange Cranberry Bread?

Absolutely! You can freeze the bread after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw at room temperature.

What can I do if my bread is too dense?

If your bread turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing or using too much flour. Be sure to measure your flour correctly and mix only until combined.

Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?

Yes! Adding chocolate chips can make for a delightful addition. The sweet chocolate pairs well with the tart cranberries and zesty oranges.

With these tips and variations, you can make Orange Cranberry Bread that suits your taste perfectly! It’s an easy, delicious, and versatile recipe that will brighten any table. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful bread!

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