Zesty Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe: A Sweet Holiday Delight

Baking a delightful orange cranberry bread sparks joy in every home baker’s heart.

This zesty quick bread with its vibrant cranberry bursts delivers a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.

Citrusy orange notes weave through each tender crumb, creating a sensational breakfast or afternoon treat.

Seasonal ingredients combine to craft a memorable loaf that feels both comforting and exciting.

Fresh cranberries add delightful pops of tartness against the soft, fragrant backdrop.

Simple to prepare and impossible to resist, this bread transforms ordinary moments into delectable memories.

One slice will have everyone asking for the recipe.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries without thawing. Just fold them into the batter directly from the freezer, and dust them lightly with flour to prevent sinking.

• How do I know if the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. Avoid overbaking to keep the bread moist.

• What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

You can replace vegetable oil with melted butter, canola oil, or even applesauce for a lighter version. Each option will slightly change the texture and flavor of the bread.

Orange Cranberry Bread Flavor Boosts

• Savor Seasonal Flavors: Burst with vibrant orange and tangy cranberry notes that bring a delightful twist to traditional quick bread.
• Bake with Ease: Simple mixing technique requires minimal kitchen skills, making it perfect for novice bakers wanting to create impressive homemade treats.
• Perfect Party Pleaser: Versatile recipe works wonderfully for brunch gatherings, afternoon tea, or casual weekend breakfast celebrations with family and friends.
• Quick Comfort Bread: Minimal prep and straightforward instructions guarantee a delicious result with minimal effort, delivering maximum satisfaction in every slice.

Key Ingredients for Orange Cranberry Bread

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the bread that provides structure and texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Baking Powder: Helps the bread rise and creates a light, airy texture.
• Baking Soda: Assists with leavening and balances the acidity of the orange juice.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.

• Orange Juice: Provides moisture and a bright, citrusy flavor to the bread.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
• Orange Zest: Adds intense orange flavor and aromatic notes.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and provides structure.

• Cranberries: Adds tartness, color, and bursts of fruity flavor throughout the bread.

Steps to Bake Orange Cranberry Bread

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350°F and grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Give the pan a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Stir these dry ingredients until they’re well combined and looking friendly.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

• Fresh orange juice
• Vegetable oil
• Bright orange zest
• A single egg

Blend until everything looks smooth and happy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

Gently mix until just combined.

Don’t overmix – you want the batter to be friends, not enemies.

Step 5: Add Cranberry Surprise

Fold in chopped cranberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

These little bursts of tartness will make your bread sing.

Step 6: Fill the Pan

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan.

Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven.

Bake for 50-60 minutes.

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes.

Then transfer to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely.

Slice, serve, and savor every delicious bite.

Tips for Sweet and Tart Cranberry Bread

• Use fresh orange zest for maximum citrusy flavor and bright aroma.
• Toss cranberries in a bit of flour before folding into batter to keep them evenly distributed.
• Don't overmix the batter; stop stirring when ingredients are just combined to ensure a tender, moist bread.
• Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze up to 3 months for a quick breakfast or snack anytime.
• Store at room temperature in an airtight container for 3-4 days to maintain freshness and soft texture.

Cranberry Bread Variations to Try

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring a tender and moist bread for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute egg with mashed banana or flax egg, and use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a plant-based orange cranberry bread.
• Low-Sugar Option: Swap regular sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and reduce overall sugar content while maintaining the bread's delightful flavor profile.
• Nutty Enhancement: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and nutritional boost, complementing the orange and cranberry flavors.

Fresh Ways to Serve Cranberry Bread

• Festive Brunch Star: Serve slices alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a delightful weekend breakfast experience.
• Afternoon Tea Companion: Pair with a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea or a creamy latte for a perfect midday treat.
• Dessert Elegance: Top with a dollop of vanilla whipped cream or a light orange glaze to elevate the bread's sweetness and presentation.
• Gift-Worthy Delight: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for a homemade, heartwarming holiday gift that everyone will love.

How to Store Orange Cranberry Bread

• Wrap the orange cranberry bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
• Slice the bread, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring maximum flavor retention when sealed properly.
• Keep the bread at room temperature in a sealed container or wrapped in plastic wrap for 2-3 days, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe

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4.6 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Sweet and zesty Orange Cranberry Bread brings Mediterranean sunshine to your kitchen, blending tangy citrus with tart berries. Moist, golden slices promise comfort and pure baking joy you’ll savor with every delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (chopped)

Liquid Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

Leavening and Seasoning:

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a light grease coating.
2. Blend dry ingredients thoroughly in a spacious mixing vessel, ensuring even distribution of flour, sugar, leavening agents, and salt.
3. Create a smooth liquid mixture by whisking orange juice, vegetable oil, fragrant orange zest, and egg until fully integrated.
4. Gently incorporate wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring with minimal agitation to prevent over-mixing.
5. Delicately fold chopped cranberries throughout the batter, distributing them evenly without crushing.
6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface for uniform baking.
7. Position the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, monitoring until a inserted toothpick emerges completely clean.
8. Allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, promoting initial setting and easier removal.
9. Carefully transfer the loaf to a wire cooling rack, permitting complete cooling and optimal texture development.

Notes

• Use fresh or frozen cranberries for optimal texture and flavor burst in every slice.
• Zest the orange carefully to avoid the bitter white pith, capturing only the bright orange outer layer.
• Consider reducing sugar by 2-3 tablespoons for a less sweet version that highlights the tangy cranberry notes.
• Substitute gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly adaptation without compromising the bread’s tender crumb.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 210 kcal
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 190 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg