Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through my kitchen instantly transports me to cozy gatherings and festive mornings. That’s exactly the experience I hope to recreate with this Cranberry Orange Bread! It’s a delightful combination of tart cranberries and bright orange zest, making each slice a burst of cheerful flavor. What I love most about this easy, moist bread is its versatility—it’s the perfect companion for breakfast, a light snack, or even a sweet ending to your day. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. Curious to know how you can elevate your next baking adventure with this quick recipe? Let’s dive in! Why is Cranberry Orange Bread a Must-Try? Flavorful, This bread is a delightful symphony of sweet and tart that brightens any meal! Simple to Make: Easy steps ensure even novice bakers can enjoy homemade goodness without hassle. Versatile Option: This recipe doubles as a scrumptious muffin, making it perfect for brunch or on-the-go snacks. Moist & Tender: Each slice offers a soft crumb with juicy cranberries and zesty orange notes, making it irresistible. Seasonal Delight: Its festive flavors make it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter mornings. Healthy Treat: Unlike processed snacks, you can feel good about enjoying this bread that’s loaded with fiber and natural sweetness! Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up! Cranberry Orange Bread Ingredients For the Bread • All Purpose Flour – Provides structure and body to the bread; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. • Sugar – Sweetens the bread while enhancing its flavor; reducing the amount can yield a less sweet loaf. • Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results. • Baking Soda – Works with acidic ingredients for additional rise; check the expiration date for effectiveness. • Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness. • Cinnamon – Adds warm, spicy notes; other spices like nutmeg can be used for variation. • Large Eggs – Contributes moisture, richness, and helps bind the ingredients together; egg substitutes may work but may alter texture. • Canned Whole Cranberries in Sauce – Provides tartness and moisture; fresh cranberries can be used instead if a thicker consistency like a sauce is made from them. • Large Orange (zested and juiced) – Adds vibrant citrus flavor; utilizing the whole fruit reduces waste. • Applesauce – Adds moisture and reduces the need for oil; unsweetened applesauce can be used for a lower sugar option. • Almond Extract – Enhances flavor complexity; can be substituted with vanilla extract. • Vegetable or Canola Oil – Keeps the bread moist; melted coconut oil may also work for a different flavor. Optional Glaze • Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness to your glaze; mix with a touch of orange juice for a zesty twist. • Orange Juice – Provides a brighter flavor that complements the cranberry orange bread; fresh juice is preferred for the best taste. Now that you have your ingredients ready, are you excited to see how easy it is to bake this delightful Cranberry Orange Bread? Let’s get you started! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Bread Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease a standard loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your Cranberry Orange Bread releases easily after baking. This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly baked loaf that holds its shape! Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until thoroughly combined. This dry mixture serves as the foundation of your bread, contributing to its delightful texture. Make sure there are no lumps to ensure even distribution of flavors. Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, blend the wet ingredients: whisk together the eggs, canned whole cranberries (with their sauce), freshly zested and juiced orange, applesauce, almond extract, and vegetable oil. You want this mixture to be smooth and well combined, as it will infuse the bread with moisture and vibrant citrus notes. Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula just until the ingredients are combined—avoid overmixing to keep your Cranberry Orange Bread tender and light. A few lumps are okay; it’s important to preserve the softness of the batter. Step 5: Bake the Bread Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top if needed. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean. The bread should be golden brown and spring back when gently pressed. Step 6: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the Cranberry Orange Bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process enhances the flavor and texture, making every slice a delightful experience to savor. Cranberry Orange Bread Variations & Substitutions Explore delightful twists and options to make this Cranberry Orange Bread uniquely yours, each variation bursting with flavor and curiosity! Muffins: Transform this recipe into muffins for perfectly portioned treats, great for breakfast on the go or brunch gatherings. Just fill greased muffin tins 2/3 full and bake for 20-23 minutes—easy and fun! Nutty Addition: Enhance the texture and flavor by folding in chopped walnuts or pecans. The crunch of nuts creates a lovely contrast to the soft bread and complements the fruity notes beautifully. Zesty Glaze: For a sweet finish, drizzle a light glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh orange juice. This small addition brightens each slice, making it even more irresistible! Dairy-Free: Make this bread dairy-free by using plant-based oil and applesauce instead of eggs. This option keeps the bread moist while accommodating various dietary needs. Spice It Up: Experiment with spices by adding freshly grated nutmeg or a dash of ginger to the dry ingredients. These warm spices can elevate the flavor profile and bring an exciting twist. Fresh Cranberries: If you prefer fresh over canned, cook fresh cranberries with a bit of sugar until soft to create a similar sauce texture. This swap offers a wonderful tartness to balance sweetness. Citrus Blend: Mix in a tablespoon of lemon or lime juice alongside the orange juice for a bright citrus blend. This twist gives the bread an extra zing that enlivens your taste buds! Herbal Infusion: For a daring flair, try adding finely chopped rosemary or thyme to the batter. The aromatic herbs will infuse the loaf with earthy notes, creating a savory-sweet experience. By exploring these tantalizing variations, you’ll find endless possibilities to enjoy your Cranberry Orange Bread! And if you’re looking for other delightful recipes, consider trying out Orange Chicken Savory or indulge in a sweet slice of Cinnamon Apple Bread to brighten your day even more! How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Bread Room Temperature: Store your Cranberry Orange Bread covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor. Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week. This will keep it moist while preventing mold. Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Bread There’s something magical about pairing sweet, moist flavors with complementary dishes that create a delightful experience! Creamy Butter: Spreading a generous pat of butter adds richness and enhances the flavors of the bread, making each slice utterly indulgent. Whipped Cream Cheese: This creamy topping complements the tartness of the cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors that is simply heavenly. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh fruit lightens up your plate, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread. Citrus fruits, especially, echo the orange zest beautifully. Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzling honey or maple syrup over a warm slice elevates the sweetness and provides a delightful sticky texture that feels luxurious. Hot Tea or Coffee: A warm cup alongside your Cranberry Orange Bread creates a comforting experience, perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon breaks. The aromatic flavors in your drink will amplify the fruity notes. Ginger Tea: The spicy warmth of ginger tea contrasts the sweet-tart bread beautifully, creating a delightful pairing that’s both soothing and invigorating. Chocolate Ganache: For a decadent treat, serve the bread with a drizzle of rich chocolate ganache, offering a luxurious sweetness that both kids and adults will adore. Chocolate Chips: Adding mini chocolate chips to the bread batter enhances the flavor and offers little pockets of sweetness that make every bite special. Embrace these pairings to elevate your Cranberry Orange Bread experience and turn simple servings into cherished moments! Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Bread Avoid Overmixing: To keep your Cranberry Orange Bread tender, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rise. Old leavening agents can lead to flat bread. Cooling Time: Don’t rush the cooling process! Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to help it hold its shape when removing. Cranberry Options: If using fresh cranberries, cook them with a bit of sugar until soft to mimic the sauce texture of canned cranberries. Check Doneness Early: Baking times can vary by oven and pan size. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking. Make Ahead Options These Cranberry Orange Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, the wet ingredients can be whisked together, stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures and pour the batter into your loaf pan. This way, you’ll achieve delicious, freshly baked Cranberry Orange Bread with minimal effort, capturing that delightful flavor without sacrificing quality! Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe FAQs How do I select the best cranberries for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing cranberries, look for firm, plump berries with a deep red color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as they may be past their prime. If you’re using fresh cranberries, check their expiration date if they come pre-packaged. How should I store the Cranberry Orange Bread to keep it fresh? For optimal freshness, store your Cranberry Orange Bread covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it in an airtight container where it will remain delicious for up to a week. Always give the bread a quick check for any mold before consuming! Can I freeze Cranberry Orange Bread, and if so, how? Very! To freeze your Cranberry Orange Bread, first, let it cool completely. Then, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired. What if my Cranberry Orange Bread isn’t rising properly? A common issue might be the freshness of your leavening agents. Baking powder and baking soda need to be fresh for the bread to rise properly. Double-check their expiration dates. Also, ensure you’re combining the wet and dry ingredients gently—overmixing can result in a dense loaf. If this happens, remember, it’s still delicious! Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe? Definitely! This recipe contains eggs and can be made with nuts if you choose to add walnuts or pecans as a variation. If you have nut allergies, feel free to omit them or substitute almond extract with vanilla extract. If serving to pets, be cautious with any leftovers, especially if they contain sugar, which isn’t good for them. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, absolutely! For a gluten-free version of Cranberry Orange Bread, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Always ensure the other ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially baking powder and any extracts! Moist Cranberry Orange Bread That Will Brighten Your Day This Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful combination of tart cranberries and bright orange zest, perfect for breakfast or a light snack. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins Servings: 10 slicesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Bread2 cups All Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend1 cup Sugar Reduce for a less sweet loaf2 teaspoons Baking Powder Ensure it's fresh1 te teaspoon Baking Soda Check expiration date1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor1 teaspoon Cinnamon Other spices can be used for variation2 large Large Eggs May use substitutes14 oz Canned Whole Cranberries in Sauce Fresh cranberries can be used1 large Large Orange Zested and juiced1/2 cup Applesauce Unsweetened for lower sugar option1 teaspoon Almond Extract Can substitute with vanilla1/2 cup Vegetable or Canola Oil Melted coconut oil may also workOptional Glaze1 cup Powdered Sugar Mix with a touch of orange juice2 tablespoons Orange Juice Fresh juice preferred Equipment Loaf PanMixing bowlsWhiskSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.In a separate bowl, blend the eggs, canned cranberries (with sauce), orange zest and juice, applesauce, almond extract, and vegetable oil until smooth.Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until combined.Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg NotesAvoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Ensure your leavening agents are fresh for the best results. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
