Irresistible Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe to Savor

Cranberry orange bread is like a hug in loaf form, bursting with zesty flavors and sweet-tart goodness. Imagine slicing into a warm, golden crust that gives way to a moist, fragrant interior. The air fills with the aroma of fresh oranges and tart cranberries, making your kitchen smell like a cozy bakery.

This delightful treat isn’t just for breakfast; it’s perfect for brunch, gatherings, or even as a cheeky midnight snack. I remember the first time I made cranberry orange bread—my family was mesmerized by the vibrant colors and inviting scents wafting through the house. It quickly became our go-to recipe for festive occasions and lazy Sunday mornings.

I once surprised my friends with cranberry orange bread during a holiday gathering, and they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your bread; sift it well for a lighter texture.

• Granulated Sugar: Sweeten your loaf; feel free to reduce it if you prefer less sweetness.

• Baking Powder: Essential for leavening; ensure it’s fresh for best results.

• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors beautifully without making it salty.

• Fresh Oranges: Use both zest and juice; it adds vibrant flavor and moisture.

• Fresh Cranberries: These tiny gems provide tartness; consider using dried cranberries if fresh are unavailable.

• Eggs: They bind everything together while adding richness; opt for room temperature eggs if possible.

• Vegetable Oil: This keeps the bread moist without adding extra flavor; feel free to use melted butter for a richer taste.

• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla deepens the flavor profile; use pure extract for best quality.

• Chopped Walnuts (optional): They add crunch and depth; toast them lightly beforehand for enhanced flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until evenly distributed—this helps incorporate air into your dry mix.

Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, vegetable oil, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. The mixture should look glossy and inviting.

Zest Like There’s No Tomorrow: Grate the zest from your oranges directly into your wet mixture. Breathe in that citrusy aroma! It’s like sunshine in a bowl.

Toss in Cranberries: Gently fold in cranberries (and walnuts if using) into the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—let those berries shine!

Pour Into Pan: Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Give it a little shake to settle things nicely before popping it into the oven.

After about 50-60 minutes of baking, your kitchen will smell heavenly! Check doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean when done.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F while you mix the dry and wet ingredients separately. This ensures an even bake, giving you that golden crust and tender crumb.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or add walnuts for crunch. A hint of cinnamon can also elevate the flavor profile, making it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cranberry orange bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices and reheat them in the toaster or microwave for a quick treat.

Baking this cranberry orange bread reminds me of family gatherings where everyone fights over the last slice. It’s a joy to see friends enjoying something I made with love.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just don’t thaw them before adding.

How do I know when my bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when ready.

What can I serve with cranberry orange bread?

It pairs wonderfully with cream cheese or butter for added richness.

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Cranberry Orange Bread

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Cranberry orange bread is a delightful fusion of sweet and tart flavors, perfect for any occasion. With its golden crust and moist, aromatic interior, this bread fills your kitchen with the warmth of fresh oranges and vibrant cranberries. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a special treat, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy it warm or toasted with butter for a comforting experience that’s sure to impress your guests.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 10 slices 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Zest and juice of 2 fresh oranges
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (or dried cranberries)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, orange juice, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Add the orange zest to the wet mixture.
5. Gently fold in the cranberries and walnuts (if using) until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg