When the first hints of fall arrive, my kitchen transforms into an inviting space filled with warmth and the delightful scents of baking. That’s when I reach for my cherished recipe for Cranberry Orange Bread. This perfect blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a loaf that’s not only moist but bursting with flavor—ideal for those cozy afternoons sipping tea or coffee. While the vibrant colors of the cranberries and the bright citrus aroma evoke festive cheer, this quick bread is versatile enough to enjoy year-round. I often find that it impresses family and friends alike, making it my go-to gift for gatherings. Whether you opt for fresh or dried cranberries, this recipe celebrates the joy of homemade treats with a delightful glaze that adds an irresistible finish. Join me as we create a loaf that might just become your new favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Bread
Delicious, this recipe combines sweet-tart cranberries with fragrant orange zest for an unforgettable taste.
Quick and easy, it requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy bakers and unexpected guests.
Versatile, you can enjoy it as a breakfast staple, an afternoon snack, or even a festive holiday treat.
Moist texture and vibrant colors create a visual feast that enhances any gathering.
Customized options let you swap nuts or use different fruits for a personal touch—perfect for making it your own!
Cranberry Orange Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with plain yogurt for a lighter option.
- Butter – Provides flavor and texture; can be replaced with vegetable oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Orange Juice – Imparts a sweet and tangy flavor; fresh-squeezed juice is preferable for the best taste.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder and leavening agent; for a vegan option, replace with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg).
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; optional, but recommended for depth.
- Sugar – Sweetens the bread; can be reduced or substituted with honey or agave syrup, adjusting liquids as necessary.
- Flour – Provides structure; all-purpose flour is standard; for gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents that contribute to the bread’s rise; ensure they’re fresh for effectiveness.
- Orange Zest – Adds concentrated citrus flavor; do not omit as it’s key to the bread’s profile.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; essential for enhancing flavors.
- Cranberries – The star ingredient, providing tartness; use fresh or rehydrated dried cranberries.
- Almonds or Pecans (optional) – Adds texture and nuttiness; can be omitted for nut-free versions.
For the Glaze
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Creates a sweet finish; adjust the thickness with more or less sugar to your liking.
- Orange Juice – Adds a citrusy tang; fresh juice is ideal for a vibrant flavor in your glaze.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and for easy removal later.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream or Greek yogurt, melted butter, orange juice, eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar. Use a mixer on medium speed to blend until everything is well incorporated and smooth.
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, orange zest, and salt. This ensures even distribution of baking agents and avoids clumps in your batter.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually sift the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently just until everything is incorporated—avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender.
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Fold in Cranberries and Nuts: Carefully fold in chopped cranberries and optional nuts until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter for delicious bites in every slice.
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Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the loaf is lightly golden.
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Cool and Glaze: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 30 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. For the glaze, whisk together orange juice and confectioners’ sugar until smooth, then drizzle it over the cooled loaf for a delightful finish.
Optional: Serve warm with butter for a comforting treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Bread?
Experience delightful pairings that elevate your mealtime with this vibrant quick bread.
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Golden Butter: A dollop of butter adds richness, perfectly balancing the sweet and tangy flavors of the bread. Just imagine spreading it on a warm slice and savoring the melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the bread’s rich flavors, enhancing each bite’s experience and bringing an element of brightness to your plate.
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Creamy Cheese Spread: Spreadable cream cheese or mascarpone offers a creamy layer, softening hints of tartness from the cranberries and creating a delicious harmony of flavors—perfect for brunch.
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Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of chamomile or mint tea complements the citrus notes beautifully, creating a peaceful atmosphere for unwinding with this lovely loaf.
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Ice Cream: For a sweet treat, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or orange ice cream, creating a divine indulgence that feels like a warm hug on cozy nights.
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Nutty Coffee: A cup of hazelnut or mocha coffee provides a delightful nutty undertone that pairs wonderfully with the bread’s sweetness, making it a comforting pick-me-up.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Bread
- Room Temperature: Keep your cranberry orange bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap; it will stay fresh for up to 3 days if stored in a cool, dry place.
- Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the wrapped bread for up to 1 week. This helps maintain moisture while preventing spoilage.
- Freezer: Slice and freeze the bread in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 3 months; this makes for easy thawing and enjoyment later.
- Reheating: To serve warm, simply microwave slices for 10-15 seconds or lightly toast them, enhancing their flavors and making them deliciously inviting again.
Cranberry Orange Bread Variations
Customize this recipe to suit your taste and enjoy even more vibrant flavors as you bake!
- Berry Bliss: Swap cranberries with fresh or frozen blueberries for a sweeter, seasonal twist that’s just as delightful.
- Nut-Free Delight: Omit almonds or pecans altogether to create a safe, nut-free version that’s still full of texture. Alternatively, use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a crunchy surprise.
- Citrus Mix: Add a splash of lemon or grapefruit juice for a tangy layer that livens up the flavor profile in every bite. It’s an unexpected yet fabulous flavor enhancement!
- Spice It Up: Experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy spice kick, perfect for those chilly evenings spent by the fire. A little warmth makes a big difference!
- Choco-Cran: Fold in mini chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for an extra decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore. The combination of tart and sweet is undeniably irresistible!
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
- Hearty Whole Grain: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients and a hearty texture—great for those who love a rustic touch!
- Fruit Fusion: Try mixing in diced apples or pears along with the cranberries for a moist and fruity extravagance that delights the palate with every slice!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Bread
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature; this helps create a smoother batter and evenly incorporates flavors.
- Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the batter just until combined to maintain a tender crumb; excessive mixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- Fresh Cranberries Are Best: Opt for fresh cranberries when possible for maximum flavor and moisture; if using dried, rehydrate them for the same effect.
- Zest Matters: Don’t skip the orange zest; it enhances the bread’s citrus flavor dramatically, making it a vital component of your cranberry orange bread.
- Cooling Time Counts: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack; this helps firm up the loaf and makes slicing easier.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Cranberry Orange Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; just mix all the wet and dry ingredients separately and combine them right before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the bread and store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to one week. To maintain quality, make sure it cools completely before wrapping to prevent moisture buildup. When ready to serve, simply slice and enjoy as is, or drizzle with glaze for that extra festive touch!
Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries are best for this recipe due to their flavor and moisture content. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can use dried cranberries, just make sure to rehydrate them by soaking in warm water for about 15 minutes prior to adding them to your batter.
How should I store leftover cranberry orange bread?
For maximum freshness, wrap your cranberry orange bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, refrigerate it where it can last for up to one week. Just remember to allow it to come to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze cranberry orange bread?
Very! To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if my bread doesn’t rise properly?
If your cranberry orange bread doesn’t rise, it may be due to the leavening agents being expired or overmixing the batter. Ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, and mix the batter until the ingredients are just combined to maintain a tender crumb. Additionally, make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before placing the bread inside.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you have allergies, be cautious about the optional nuts; you can simply omit them for a nut-free version or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, substitute sour cream with plant-based yogurt and butter with vegetable oil. Vegan bakers can replace eggs with flax eggs, using 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg.
How long does it take for the bread to cool before glazing?
It’s essential to let your cranberry orange bread cool in the pan for about 30 minutes after baking. This cooling period not only makes it easier to slice but also allows the flavors to settle. After this time, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the zesty glaze, ensuring it won’t melt from the heat.
Delicious Cranberry Orange Bread with a Glorious Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, melted butter, orange juice, eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar. Mix on medium speed until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, orange zest, and salt.
- Gradually sift the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until incorporated.
- Fold in cranberries and nuts until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. For the glaze, whisk together orange juice and confectioners' sugar and drizzle over the cooled loaf.
