There’s nothing quite like the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the house, and this Cranberry Orange Bread is no exception. The vibrant citrus notes combined with tart cranberries create an inviting aroma that wraps around you, making it impossible to resist a slice.
I first fell in love with this recipe during a cozy autumn afternoon, where the leaves crunched underfoot outside while I baked away in my warm kitchen. It’s perfect for brightening up a chilly morning or as a delightful gift during the holiday season. Quick to assemble and incredibly moist, this bread combines ease with impressive flavors that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds.
Whether you’re looking for a sweet breakfast treat, an afternoon snack alongside your favorite tea, or something special to share at festive gatherings, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Let’s gather our ingredients and dive into the delicious world of Cranberry Orange Bread that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Why is Cranberry Orange Bread a must-try?
Delightful aroma: The moment your oven starts to heat, the warming scent of orange and cranberries fills your home, inviting everyone to the kitchen.
Festive treat: Perfect for holiday gifting, this bread is a charming addition to any festive gathering.
Moist & tender: The combination of yogurt and fresh oranges creates a moist texture that’s hard to resist.
Versatile recipe: Enjoy it as a breakfast option, snack, or dessert; it adapts beautifully to any meal.
Quick to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time.
Enhance your cooking repertoire with this easy and delicious treat!
Cranberry Orange Bread Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful Cranberry Orange Bread!
For the Bread
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking Powder – Essential for leavening, ensure it’s fresh for optimal rising.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; omit if you’re using salted butter.
- Plain Yogurt – Adds moisture and a hint of tang; can be replaced with sour cream or buttermilk.
- Fresh Orange (zest and juice) – Infuses vibrant citrus flavor; always go for fresh, avoid bottled juice.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness; reduce slightly for a less sweet bread or swap with coconut sugar.
- Large Eggs – Gives moisture and binding; for a vegan option, use flax eggs.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavors; choose a quality extract for the best taste.
- Fresh Cranberries – Deliver tartness and lovely color; dried or frozen cranberries can be used with adjustments.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness for the glaze; consider using alternative sweeteners for a lighter version.
- Additional Orange Juice & Zest – Enhances the glaze’s citrus flavor, making it even more delightful.
Gather these ingredients, and let’s embark on this flavorful journey to create your new favorite Cranberry Orange Bread!
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan for baking. This gets your kitchen ready for that delightful aroma!
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Cream Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step creates a light texture that makes the bread moist.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the large eggs, pure vanilla extract, fresh orange zest, fresh orange juice, and plain yogurt until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
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Prepare Dry Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed for proper rising.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in the fresh cranberries to keep their shape and bright color.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If it browns too fast, cover loosely with foil.
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Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess while enhancing the flavor!
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Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, additional orange juice, and zest until smooth and well blended. This glaze adds a beautiful shine to your bread.
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Glaze the Bread: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and allow it to set before slicing. This step adds a sweet citrus touch that complements the tangy cranberries wonderfully.
Optional: Serve with a side of creamy butter or a dusting of powdered sugar for added flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Orange Bread preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients separately and refrigerating them. Simply store the wet mixture in an airtight container. Before baking, let the mixture come to room temperature and gently fold in the cranberries. Another option is to bake the bread ahead of time and let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle with the glaze for a fresh, delightful finish. This way, your Cranberry Orange Bread will be just as delicious while saving you valuable time!
Expert Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Bread
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and yogurt are at room temperature for a smooth batter that mixes beautifully.
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Flour the Cranberries: Toss cranberries in a bit of flour before adding them to the mix. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom of your loaf.
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Check Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness at 50 minutes. The toothpick should come out clean but not dry.
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Cool Before Glazing: Let your bread cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting away and losing that beautiful shine.
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Experiment with Additions: Don’t hesitate to add chopped nuts or swap the orange glaze for a cream cheese frosting for different flavor profiles that complement the cranberry orange bread.
Storage Tips for Cranberry Orange Bread
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Room Temperature: Store the bread wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture.
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Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, place the wrapped bread in the fridge, where it can last up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly dry it out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, tightly wrap the bread in plastic and then in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
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Reheating: To enjoy your Cranberry Orange Bread warm again, simply slice and toast in a toaster oven or warm up in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Bread?
Pair your delightful bread with these perfect accompaniments to create a full meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the bread, making for a comforting dish combination.
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Citrus Salad: A fresh mix of greens, oranges, and walnuts adds a bright touch and enhances the citrus notes in the bread. The sweetness and crunch elevate your meal beautifully.
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Herbed Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of herbed cream cheese on warm slices for an indulgent twist that combines savory and sweet elements effortlessly.
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Warm Spiced Tea: A cup of spiced tea brings warmth and comfort, complementing the vibrant flavors of the cranberry orange bread beautifully.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of carrots drizzled with honey provides a lovely contrast to the tangy cranberries while adding a lovely pop of color to your plate.
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Almond Biscotti: For a delightful dessert pairing, serve alongside crunchy almond biscotti that can be dipped into tea or coffee, enhancing the overall experience of your bread.
Cranberry Orange Bread Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful bread, making it uniquely yours with these inspiring ideas!
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Nuts: Add walnuts or pecans for an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the moist bread. Toast them first for an extra flavor boost!
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the sweet orange glaze for a rich cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist that brings a new level of indulgence.
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Mini Loaves: Bake mini versions for gifting! Adjust baking time to around 30-40 minutes, making them perfect little treats for friends and family.
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Spices: Sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy vibe that feels like a hug on a plate. The aromatic spices blend seamlessly with the citrus.
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Dried Fruit: Replace fresh cranberries with dried cranberries or cherries for a sweeter, chewier texture. Just remember to adjust the sugar to balance the flavors!
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Citrus Mix: Experiment with a mix of citrus zest, like lemon or lime, alongside the orange for a tangy twist that brightens every bite.
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Chocolate Chips: Add dark or white chocolate chips for a delightful surprise! The sweetness from the chocolate pairs wonderfully with the tart cranberries.
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Savory Version: Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique savory take that can be served alongside soups or holiday meals. It’s a surprising yet delicious flavor combination!
Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture! If you cannot find them, dried or frozen cranberries work too; just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly, as dried cranberries are usually sweeter. Soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes if using dried to soften them up.
How should I store leftover Cranberry Orange Bread?
To maintain its delicious moistness, store the bread wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week; however, this may slightly dry it out. If you’re planning to keep it for a while, freezing is the way to go!
Can I freeze Cranberry Orange Bread?
Yes! To freeze your bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can safely be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.
What if my bread comes out too dry?
If your Cranberry Orange Bread turns out a bit dry, it may have been overbaked. Keep a close eye on it while baking and check for doneness at around 50 minutes. For the future, consider adding an extra tablespoon of yogurt or using room temperature ingredients to maintain moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily adapt this recipe for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, use coconut oil instead of butter and a plant-based yogurt. If you’ve got egg allergies, flax eggs work beautifully too!
How long can I keep Cranberry Orange Bread in the fridge?
In the fridge, wrapped properly, your bread can last up to a week while still maintaining its flavor. Be cautious, though, as refrigeration may cause it to dry out a bit. Enjoy it sooner rather than later for the best taste experience!
Deliciously Moist Cranberry Orange Bread You’ll Love to Share
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan for baking.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in the large eggs, pure vanilla extract, fresh orange zest, fresh orange juice, and plain yogurt until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in the fresh cranberries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, additional orange juice, and zest until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and allow it to set before slicing.