Irresistible Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe to Savor

There’s something magical about the aroma of cranberry orange bread wafting through your kitchen. Imagine a blend of tart cranberries and zesty oranges, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds. It’s like a cozy hug in loaf form, perfect for breakfast or as a delightful afternoon snack.

Now, picture yourself slicing into this golden-brown delight, revealing its moist interior speckled with vibrant red and orange flecks. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just craving something sweet to pair with your coffee, this cranberry orange bread is sure to impress. Trust me; as soon as you whip up this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Ingredients for cranberry orange bread

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

• All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your bread, providing structure and texture. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to your loaf, perfectly balancing the tartness of the cranberries.
• Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that helps the bread rise and achieve that fluffy texture we all love.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances out the sweetness.
• Eggs: These are vital for binding the ingredients together and adding moisture to the bread.
• Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess; it keeps your bread moist and tender.
• Fresh Orange Juice and Zest: Brighten up your loaf with fresh juice and zest from an orange; they provide that irresistible citrus flavor.
• Cranberries: You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries; they add tartness and bursts of flavor in every bite.
• Walnuts (optional): Chopped walnuts lend a delightful crunch to your bread if you’re looking for extra texture.

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

How to Make cranberry orange bread

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a loaf pan and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray so that our lovely bread doesn’t stick around when we want it out.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until everything is well combined. You want these dry ingredients to mingle nicely before inviting their wet friends over.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, orange juice, and zest. This is where all that citrus magic happens! Incorporate these wet ingredients into your dry mix until just combined—don’t worry about being too perfect; lumps are totally welcome here!

Step 4: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in those beautiful cranberries (and walnuts if you’re using them) into the batter. Each piece will add bursts of flavor that keep things exciting.

Step 5: Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Give it a little shake to settle everything evenly—this is not an earthquake simulation but rather a way to ensure an even bake.

Step 6: Bake Away

Pop it in the oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will drive you wild! Let it cool slightly before slicing—if you can resist!

Transfer to plates and enjoy this delightful cranberry orange bread warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or slathered with butter—because why not?

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ones in another. Once combined, fold in those vibrant cranberries and zesty orange peel. Bake until golden brown and your house smells like holiday cheer.

Add Your Touch

Feeling adventurous? Swap out the cranberries for blueberries or add some walnuts for crunch. You can even experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give this cranberry orange bread your unique flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cranberry orange bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze it for longer freshness. To reheat, pop a slice in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth.

I remember the first time I made this cranberry orange bread; my friends couldn’t believe I baked something so delicious! They devoured it before I could even grab a slice. It quickly became a staple at our gatherings, adding joy and sweetness to every occasion.

FAQs:

Can I use fresh cranberries for cranberry orange bread?

Absolutely! Fresh cranberries add a delightful tartness to your cranberry orange bread. Just be sure to chop them coarsely and consider increasing the sugar slightly to balance their natural acidity. If using frozen cranberries, no need to thaw them; simply toss them in straight from the freezer. This will ensure they maintain their shape and flavor during baking.

How do I store leftover cranberry orange bread?

To keep your cranberry orange bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prolong its life, consider refrigerating it for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze slices in an airtight container for up to three months. Just remember to thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with other fruits! Blueberries or chopped apples are excellent alternatives that complement the orange flavor well. If you want a twist, try adding diced pears or dried cherries. Adjust the sweetness accordingly if you’re using sweeter fruits, ensuring your cranberry orange bread remains balanced and flavorful.

What should I serve with cranberry orange bread?

Cranberry orange bread pairs beautifully with a variety of spreads and beverages. Enjoy it with cream cheese or butter for added richness. It also complements coffee or tea perfectly for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. For something special, serve it alongside yogurt and fresh fruit for a refreshing brunch option that everyone will love.

Looking to expand your recipe collection? Check out these tasty recipes for your next culinary adventure.

Conclusion for cranberry orange bread:

Cranberry orange bread is a delightful treat that combines sweet and tart flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Using fresh or frozen cranberries enhances its taste while offering flexibility in ingredients. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this delicious bread over several days, whether as breakfast or a snack. With simple substitutions possible, this recipe invites creativity—so don’t hesitate to make it your own! Enjoy every slice!

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Luscious Cranberry Orange Bread

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: About 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in this delightful cranberry orange bread, where the tartness of cranberries meets the zest of oranges—perfect for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon treat.

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Ingredients

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For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (coarsely chopped)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

1. 1. Preheat Your Oven
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
3. 2. Mix Dry Ingredients
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
5. 3. Combine Wet Ingredients
6. In another bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, orange juice, and orange zest. Gently incorporate the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined; don’t worry about lumps.
7. 4. Fold in Cranberries
8. Gently fold in the cranberries and walnuts (if using) into the batter until evenly distributed.
9. 5. Pour into Pan
10. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and shake gently to even it out.
11. 6. Bake Away
12. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg