Cranberry Orange Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright zest of orange. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a festive holiday treat. Here’s a recipe to make it at home:
Ingredients
Bread:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp orange zest (from 1 medium orange)
¾ cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Glaze (Optional):
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice
½ tsp orange zest
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the orange juice, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine and Add Mix-ins
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and nuts, if using.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and let it set before slicing.
Tips and Variations
Cranberries: Use dried cranberries if fresh or frozen ones aren’t available, but reduce the sugar slightly.
Orange Flavor: Add a teaspoon of orange extract for a stronger citrus kick.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze for longer shelf life.
