Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of zesty orange and tart cranberries, especially when they come together in a warm, freshly baked loaf of Orange Cranberry Bread. The aroma of citrus and sweet bread wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone feel cozy and festive, no matter the season.

I first made this recipe on a chilly autumn afternoon, inspired by a basket of fresh cranberries and a few oranges that had been sitting on my counter. The result was a moist, flavorful bread that’s become a family favorite, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Let’s dive into what makes this bread so special.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Cranberry Bread

Get ready to fall in love with a bread that checks all the boxes for flavor, ease, and versatility. This Orange Cranberry Bread is more than just a treat – it’s a celebration of bold, bright flavors.

First, the combination of fresh orange zest and juicy cranberries creates a flavor profile that’s both sweet and tangy. The zest infuses the bread with a citrusy brightness, while the cranberries provide delightful bursts of tartness in every bite.

You’ll also appreciate how simple it is to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and one bowl, this recipe comes together in under 15 minutes before baking. Perfect for those busy days when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Not to mention, this bread is wonderfully moist thanks to the addition of fresh orange juice and a touch of oil. It stays fresh for days, making it an ideal bake-ahead option for holiday gatherings, brunches, or weekday snacks.

Finally, the recipe is endlessly customizable. From adding a glaze to including nuts or chocolate chips, you can tailor this bread to suit your tastes or the occasion.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating a bread that’s flavorful, moist, and visually stunning.

• Fresh cranberries: These are the stars of the show, providing bursts of tartness that complement the sweetness of the bread. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen ones work just as well – no need to thaw them first.
• Orange zest and juice: The zest is where the intense orange flavor comes from, while the juice adds natural sweetness and moisture. Be sure to use fresh oranges for the best results.
• All-purpose flour: This is the base of the bread, providing structure and a soft crumb. For a heartier texture, you can substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour.
• Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the citrus and cranberry flavors.
• Oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist. A neutral oil like vegetable or canola works best, but melted coconut oil adds a hint of tropical flavor.
• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bread’s fluffy texture.
• Baking powder and salt: These essential leavening agents ensure your bread rises beautifully and has a balanced flavor.

You’ll also need a standard loaf pan, parchment paper for easy removal, and a zester or fine grater for the orange zest.

How To Make This Orange Cranberry Bread

Baking this bread is as straightforward as it gets. You’ll love how quickly it comes together with minimal prep work.

1. Prepare your pan and ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Zest and juice your oranges, and measure out your cranberries.
2. Mix the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, eggs, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
4. Fold in the cranberries. Gently fold in the cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. If you’re using frozen cranberries, toss them in a bit of flour first to prevent them from sinking.
5. Bake to perfection. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. 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.

This bread is at its best after it’s had a chance to cool, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage Options

This Orange Cranberry Bread stores wonderfully, making it a great option for make-ahead treats.

• Room temperature: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the bread in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave before serving.

When reheating, a quick zap in the microwave or a few minutes in the toaster oven will bring back that just-baked warmth.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add a glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the cooled bread for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Include nuts: Fold in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk instead of regular milk if the recipe calls for it.
• Try dried cranberries: If fresh or frozen cranberries aren’t available, dried cranberries can be used. Soak them in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes to soften them before adding to the batter.
• Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, cozy flavor to the bread.

Experiment with these variations and create your own signature version of this delightful bread.

With its vibrant flavors, moist texture, and versatility, this Orange Cranberry Bread is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Bake a loaf today and let the irresistible aroma of citrus and cranberries fill your home!

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