The first bite of this Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread is like a cozy hug on a chilly morning. As you cut into the loaf, the vibrant colors of fresh cranberries and the citrusy orange zest create a beautiful mosaic that invites you to escape from the mundane. The combination of the tart berries and the bright, sweet glaze makes for a treat that’s not just perfect for the holidays but for any occasion that calls for a little extra joy in your kitchen.
This delightfully moist bread transforms breakfast into a celebration, effortlessly becoming a family favorite. Imagine serving a warm slice, still a bit sticky from that luscious orange glaze, with a smear of creamy butter—pure bliss! Whether you’re gathering around the festive table or simply savoring a quiet moment at home, this recipe promises to elevate your mornings and bring a smile to your face. Let’s dive into the simple techniques and fresh ingredients that make this bread a must-try in your culinary repertoire!
Why is Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread irresistible?
Bright, Bold Flavors: The vibrant mix of tart cranberries and zesty orange transforms this simple bread into a flavor sensation.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can create this delightful bread, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced chef.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This loaf shines during the holidays but is equally delightful for brunches, snacks, or cozy afternoons at home.
Flexible Ingredients: Substitute ingredients like yogurt for buttermilk or use dried cranberries based on your pantry.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Its moist crumb and sweet glaze make this bread a standout at any gathering, sure to impress both friends and family.
Treat your taste buds with the warm flavors of a homemade loaf—give this recipe a try today!
Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread Ingredients
• Navigate your way to deliciousness with these essential ingredients that bring this Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread to life:
For the Bread
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability; King Arthur all-purpose flour is recommended for best results.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness, balancing the tartness of the cranberries.
- Fresh cranberries – Contributes tart flavor; must be halved for even distribution, but frozen cranberries can be used directly.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and richness; use at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Vegetable oil – Keeps the bread moist and tender, enhancing the mouthfeel.
- Eggs – Acts as a binding agent; ensure they’re at room temperature for best results.
- Orange zest – Infuses the bread with fresh citrus; zest from 2 large oranges is perfect.
- Fresh orange juice – Enhances the flavor; freshly squeezed juice gives the best results.
- Baking powder – A leavening agent that ensures your bread rises beautifully.
- Salt – Elevates the overall flavor profile of the bread.
For the Glaze
- Powdered sugar – Used for the glaze; sift it to achieve a lump-free, silky smooth finish.
- Fresh orange juice – Mix with powdered sugar for a glaze that highlights the bread’s fresh flavors.
- Remaining orange zest – Adds an extra pop of citrus to the glaze.
Dive into these ingredients, and prepare to enjoy a slice of holiday cheer!
How to Make Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, prepare your two loaf pans by lightly coating them with cooking spray to ensure easy release.
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Prepare Your Ingredients: Grate the zest from two large oranges, halve the fresh cranberries, and squeeze out the juice. Ensure the buttermilk and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of orange zest. Then, sift in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Give it a gentle stir to mix all the dry ingredients together.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a different bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, fresh orange juice, and a dash of vanilla until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until just combined; it’ll be okay if the batter is slightly lumpy!
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Add Cranberries: Carefully fold in the halved cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without overmixing.
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Bake the Loaves: Divide the batter equally between the prepared loaf pans and place them in the oven. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool Down: After baking, let the loaves cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar with fresh orange juice and the remaining orange zest until smooth and glossy.
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Drizzle the Glaze: Once the loaves are completely cooled, drizzle the orange glaze generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a beautiful finish.
Optional: Serve warm with a smear of butter or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread
Room Temperature: Keep the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness.
Fridge: You can refrigerate the bread for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For long-term storage, slice the Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread and store in an airtight container or freezer bag, lasting up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw slices in the fridge overnight, then gently warm in the microwave or toaster for a deliciously cozy experience.
Expert Tips for Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much after adding flour can lead to a dense loaf. Stir just until ingredients are combined for a light texture.
- Cranberry Prep: Halve your fresh cranberries and toss them in flour before folding them into the batter to ensure even distribution and avoid sinking.
- Toothpick Test: Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for the perfect bake.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool fully before glazing. This ensures the glaze adheres nicely and enhances presentation.
- Storage Savvy: Wrap the Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread tightly to keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.
What to Serve with Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread?
Indulging in this delightful bread sets the stage for a wonderful meal filled with comforting flavors.
- Creamy Butter: Slather on a generous layer of unsalted butter to amplify the rich flavors and enhance its moist texture.
- Velvety Cream Cheese: Pairing it with cream cheese adds a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the glaze beautifully, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal berries and citrus adds brightness, balancing the dense loaf while providing a refreshing touch to every bite.
- Savory Cheese Platter: Consider a selection of creamy brie or sharp cheddar—these savory elements create a delightful contrast to the sweet bread.
- Hot Coffee: A steaming cup of your favorite brew enhances the whole experience, inviting warmth with each sip alongside the sweet, tart notes.
- Sweet Jam: A dollop of orange marmalade or berry preserves can elevate your slice, enriching that citrus profile for a burst of flavor.
- Scrambled Eggs: For a heartier breakfast, serve with fluffy scrambled eggs—a perfect canvas for those bursts of cranberry flavor amidst the sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: If serving as dessert, topping it with a light dollop of whipped cream can transform it into a delightful treat that feels extra special.
Each of these suggested pairings will elevate your Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread into a meal that lingers in memory, perfect for any occasion!
Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on this lovely loaf!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar for a dairy-free version.
- Nutty Twist: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an extra crunchy texture. The nuts will add delightful flavor and complement the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Spiced Aroma: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor profile during baking. A hint of spice elevates the overall taste and makes your kitchen smell irresistible.
- Orange Zest Upgrade: Use zest from an extra orange or a lemon to supercharge the citrus flavor; this will result in a brighter, more vibrant loaf.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this bread suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice!
- Tropical Vibe: Add 1 cup of chopped pineapple to the batter for a tropical twist that harmonizes beautifully with cranberries. This will give your bread an unexpected yet delightful flavor burst.
- Banana Addition: Mash a ripe banana and mix it into the batter; this will add an extra layer of moisture and subtle sweetness, transforming the bread into a banana-cranberry delight.
- Cranberry Flavors: Experiment with dried cranberries or cherries instead of fresh cranberries for a different taste experience. Adjust the sugar depending on tartness—dried fruits can sometimes be sweeter!
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply make it, place it in the loaf pans, cover tightly, and refrigerate. This keeps the flavors fresh while saving you precious time on busy mornings. You can also chop the cranberries and zest the oranges in advance—just store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just pop the batter in the oven, and enjoy the fragrant aroma filling your home. This way, your homemade loaves will be just as delicious and moist, with minimal effort on your part!
Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe FAQs
How should I select fresh cranberries for the best results?
Absolutely! Look for cranberries that are firm, plump, and brightly colored. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these indicate overripeness. If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them; just halve and toss them directly into your batter!
How should I store leftover Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread?
To keep your Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, ensuring it’s well-wrapped to avoid dryness.
Can I freeze Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread?
Sure thing! To freeze, slice the bread into individual pieces and place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. For reheating, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or toaster before enjoying!
What if my bread turns out dense?
If your Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread doesn’t rise properly or is dense, it might be due to overmixing after adding the flour, which can develop gluten and make the loaf heavy. Always stir until just combined, and check your baking powder to ensure it’s fresh!
Is there an alternative for buttermilk in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of regular milk and vinegar. Just mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will provide the acidity needed to achieve a similar effect in your recipe.
Can I share this bread with my pets?
As a pet owner, it’s wise to keep your furry friends in mind. Avoid feeding them bread that contains sugar or glaze. If you’d like to give them a treat, a small piece of plain bread without any additives is safer!
Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread: Holiday Delight to Savor
Equipment
- Loaf pans
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sifter
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 2 cups All-purpose flour King Arthur all-purpose flour is recommended
- 1 cup Granulated sugar Adds sweetness
- 2 cups Fresh cranberries Halved for even distribution
- 1 cup Buttermilk Use at room temperature
- 1/2 cup Vegetable oil Keeps the bread moist
- 2 large Eggs At room temperature
- 2 tablespoons Orange zest From 2 large oranges
- 1/2 cup Fresh orange juice Freshly squeezed juice preferred
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder Leavening agent
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Elevates flavor
For the Glaze
- 1 cup Powdered sugar Sift for a smooth finish
- 2 tablespoons Fresh orange juice To mix with powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon Remaining orange zest
Instructions
How to Make Sweet Cranberry Orange Bread
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat two loaf pans with cooking spray.
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Grate the zest from two large oranges, halve the cranberries, and squeeze out the juice.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar and orange zest, sift in flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Whisk together buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and fresh orange juice until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Fold wet ingredients into dry until just combined; batter can be slightly lumpy.
- Add Cranberries: Gently fold the halved cranberries into the batter.
- Bake the Loaves: Divide batter between pans and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool Down: Let the loaves cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Prepare the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
- Drizzle the Glaze: Once cooled, drizzle glaze over the top of the loaves.