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Cranberry Orange Bread is a bright, flavorful quick bread that’s perfect for the holidays, brunch, or everyday baking. Made with fresh cranberries and zesty orange flavor, this moist loaf balances sweet and tart in every bite. It’s easy to make, smells amazing while baking, and looks beautiful sliced for serving or gifting. Whether you’re searching for a festive holiday bread, a cranberry orange loaf for breakfast, or a Pinterest-worthy quick bread recipe, this classic favorite is always a hit.
- Equipment List
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Zester or grater
- Citrus juicer
- Cooling rack
- Shopping List
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Fresh cranberries
- Orange zest
- Orange juice
- Eggs
- Milk or buttermilk
- Vegetable oil or melted butter
- Vanilla extract
Cranberry Orange Bread
Description
This Cranberry Orange Bread recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the citrusy punch of oranges, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the Batter
-
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda.Ensure the dry ingredients are well combined to prevent clumps in the batter. -
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs, 3/4 cup of fresh orange juice, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest until well mixed.Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor. -
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the bread tender.
Adding Cranberries and Baking
-
Incorporating Cranberries
Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries into the batter.If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter. -
Baking the Bread
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.
Cooling and Serving
-
Cooling the Bread
Allow the cranberry orange bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.Cooling the bread properly helps it set and develop its flavors. -
Slicing and Serving
Once cooled, slice the bread and serve it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of orange glaze for extra sweetness.Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Equipment List
Loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Whisk
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
Zester or grater
Citrus juicer
Cooling rack
Note
- For a more intense orange flavor, add some orange zest to the batter.
- You can substitute dried cranberries for fresh ones if they are not in season.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Serve slices of this bread toasted with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese for a delightful treat.
- Feel free to add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
