Orange Cranberry Bread

Why Make This Recipe

Orange Cranberry Bread is a delightful combination of flavors that brings a bright, citrusy taste to your table. This recipe is perfect for several occasions, whether it’s a cozy breakfast at home, a festive holiday gathering, or a simple afternoon snack with tea. The natural sweetness from the cranberries, paired with the zesty orange, creates a harmonious balance that appeals to a wide variety of taste preferences. This bread is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an excellent addition to your baked goods lineup.

Moreover, baking this Orange Cranberry Bread fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that captures the essence of homemade goodness. It’s a great way to use up seasonal fruits and makes for an impressive yet easy dish to share with friends and family. Plus, with its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, anyone can whip this up, even if they are not an experienced baker.

Whether you are treating yourself or bringing a gift to a gathering, Orange Cranberry Bread is a versatile recipe that is sure to please.

How to Make Orange Cranberry Bread

Making Orange Cranberry Bread is a straightforward process that combines basic ingredients to create a delightful loaf. Follow these steps to create your own loaf filled with the refreshing flavors of orange and cranberry.

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with some butter or non-stick spray to ensure your bread comes out easily after baking.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed. This helps ensure that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the zest and juice of one orange, half a cup of orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure to whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The zest of the orange will add extra flavor to your bread, so don’t skip this step!

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your bread tough. You want to see a few lumps, and that’s completely fine.

5. Fold in Cranberries: Carefully fold in the cranberries into the batter. If you are using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just sprinkle them in and fold gently so they don’t break apart too much.

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

7. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready.

8. Prepare Glaze: While the bread is baking, you can make the glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar and two tablespoons of orange juice. Stir until smooth and set aside.

9. Cool and Drizzle: Once the bread is out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. After it has cooled slightly, carefully remove it from the pan and place it on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before drizzling the prepared glaze over the top.

How to Serve Orange Cranberry Bread

Orange Cranberry Bread can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:

• Breakfast Treat: Enjoy a slice fresh out of the oven for breakfast. Pair it with butter or cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

• Dessert Option: This bread also makes a great dessert option. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious sweet treat.

• Tea Time Snack: Slice the bread and serve it with tea or coffee in the afternoon. It’s a great way to enjoy a quiet moment or entertain guests.

• Gift Idea: Wrap slices or the whole loaf in decorative paper to give as a gift to friends or family. This homemade treat is sure to be appreciated during the holidays or for special occasions.

How to Store Orange Cranberry Bread

To keep your Orange Cranberry Bread fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within a couple of days, store it at room temperature. Wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.

• Refrigerate: For longer storage, place the wrapped bread in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week when properly stored.

• Freezing: If you want to enjoy this bread at a later time, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

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 baking powder is fresh to ensure a good rise. Check the expiration date if you are unsure.

• Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bread. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Let Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to help maintain the structure and texture.

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet bread, you can reduce the sugar slightly in the recipe without compromising the flavor.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or other dried fruits for a personal touch. Walnuts or pecans make excellent additions that complement the flavors of the bread.

Variation

If you want to put a twist on the traditional Orange Cranberry Bread, consider these variations:

• Nutty Variation: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor.

• Spiced Version: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry mix for a warm spice flavor. This is especially lovely during the fall and winter seasons.

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with the orange and cranberry flavors.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version of this delicious bread.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries in place of fresh or frozen ones. However, if you do, consider reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe, as dried cranberries are often sweetened.

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?

You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or has a few moist crumbs, your bread is done.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! Orange Cranberry Bread can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it will maintain its freshness.

Can I make smaller loaves?

Yes, you can divide the batter into smaller loaf pans or even muffin tins. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as smaller portions will take less time to bake.

Is it possible to substitute the orange juice?

If you wish to substitute the orange juice, you can use lemon juice or apple juice. However, this will change the flavor profile slightly, so expect a different taste.

By following this straightforward recipe for Orange Cranberry Bread, you’ll enjoy a delicious treat that beautifully combines citrus and sweetness. Make it for yourself, or share it with loved ones to brighten their day!

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