The scent of freshly baked Cranberry Orange Bread wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet, tangy aroma of citrus and tart cranberries. Picture this: golden-brown crust, moist, fluffy interior, studded with ruby-red berries that practically dance in delight when you slice through the loaf. It’s the kind of bread that turns a mundane morning into a festive occasion.
As you take a bite, you’re met with a delightful explosion of flavors that make your taste buds sing. This bread is perfect for cozy brunches or as a cheerful addition to holiday gatherings. Trust me; once you taste it, you’ll find yourself daydreaming about it during those long work meetings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Orange Bread is a breeze to whip up, even on your busiest mornings.
- Its bright flavor profile makes it a refreshing treat any time of year.
- The vibrant colors create an eye-catching centerpiece for any table setting.
- Enjoy it warm or toasted for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
I remember the first time I made this bread; my friends devoured it in minutes. They still ask for my recipe whenever they want to impress their guests.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; I use unbleached flour for a more wholesome flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the bread, but feel free to swap half with brown sugar for added richness.
Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise; check the expiration date.
Salt: A pinch elevates all flavors, balancing sweetness and enhancing other ingredients.
Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest infuses bright citrus notes; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
Fresh Cranberries: Use whole cranberries for bursts of tartness that contrast beautifully with the sweetness.
Eggs: These will bind everything together and add moisture; opt for room-temperature eggs if possible.
Buttermilk: Adds tenderness and a slight tang; you can substitute yogurt or milk mixed with vinegar if needed.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist without overpowering flavors; can be replaced by melted butter if desired.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan lightly so your beautiful bread doesn’t stick like glue once it’s baked.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest until well combined. The citrus aroma should immediately brighten your kitchen!
Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine eggs, buttermilk, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth before pouring into the dry mixture. The contrasting colors are truly stunning!
Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in fresh cranberries using a spatula; be careful not to overmix the batter—a few lumps are perfectly fine! Enjoy watching those vibrant red berries get enveloped in batter.
Transfer to Pan: Pour the mixture into your prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. As you do this step, watch out for any stray cranberries trying to escape!
Bake Until Golden: Bake in your preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The enticing aroma will have everyone gathering around—trust me on this one.
This Cranberry Orange Bread is sure to bring joy not just through its delightful taste but also by creating memorable moments during its preparation and consumption!
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry orange bread combines sweet and tart flavors, making it a perfect breakfast or snack.
- The zesty aroma while baking will have everyone in the house drooling.
- Plus, it’s perfect for gifting during the holidays or whenever you want to impress.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing dry and wet ingredients separately. Then, combine them gently to maintain fluffiness. Lastly, fold in cranberries and orange zest before baking.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. You can also substitute orange juice with lemon juice for a different citrus twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store the cranberry orange bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm them in the oven.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor; dried ones might make it too sweet.
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Don’t overmix; it can create dense bread instead of fluffy goodness.
Baking this cranberry orange bread reminds me of holiday mornings filled with laughter and joy, when the scent would weave through our home like a warm hug.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries in my cranberry orange bread?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just don’t thaw them before mixing.
How can I make my cranberry orange bread more moist?
Adding an extra tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream can enhance moisture.
What should I serve with cranberry orange bread?
Cream cheese or butter spread adds a delicious touch to each slice.
Cranberry Orange Bread
Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat that combines the bright flavors of citrus with the tartness of fresh cranberries. This moist, fluffy loaf features a golden-brown crust and is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or festive gatherings. The aroma of this bread baking will fill your kitchen with warmth and cheer, making it an irresistible addition to any occasion. Enjoy it warm or toasted, and share it with family and friends for a truly memorable experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 orange)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (or yogurt)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (whole)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest.
- In another bowl, mix eggs, buttermilk, and vegetable oil until smooth. Pour into the dry mixture and stir gently.
- Fold in fresh cranberries carefully to avoid overmixing.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added texture, consider mixing in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Substitute orange juice for lemon juice for a tangy twist. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
