Orange Cranberry Bread: The Ultimate Guide & Recipe

Orange Cranberry Bread: just the name conjures up images of cozy mornings, the scent of citrus and warm spices filling the air, and a slice of pure, unadulterated comfort. Have you ever craved a treat that perfectly balances sweet and tart, with a texture that’s both tender and satisfyingly crumbly? Then look no further, because this recipe is about to become your new favorite baking obsession.

While the exact origins of Orange Cranberry Bread are a bit hazy, it’s safe to say that this delightful loaf has become a staple in many homes, especially around the holidays. Cranberries, native to North America, have long been a part of our culinary heritage, often associated with Thanksgiving and festive gatherings. The addition of orange zest and juice elevates the cranberries’ tartness, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

But what is it about this bread that makes it so irresistible? Perhaps it’s the vibrant burst of citrus that awakens the senses, or the juicy cranberries that provide a delightful pop of tartness. Maybe it’s the ease of preparation – a simple quick bread that requires no yeast or kneading. Whatever the reason, Orange Cranberry Bread is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat. I find that it’s the perfect companion to a cup of hot coffee or tea, and it’s always a welcome addition to any holiday spread. So, let’s get baking and create a loaf of sunshine that will brighten your day!

Ingredients:

• For the Bread:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed is best!
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, but highly recommended!)
• For the Orange Glaze (Optional, but adds a lovely touch!):
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest

Preparing the Bread Batter:

1. Preheat and Prep: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. I like to use baking spray with flour already in it – it makes life so much easier! Make sure you get into all the corners to prevent sticking.
2. Dry Ingredients Unite: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisking is key here to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Nobody wants a pocket of baking soda in their bread!
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. The mixture should be pale and airy. Don’t skimp on this step – it’s crucial for a tender crumb.
4. Incorporate the Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps to emulsify the batter and prevent curdling.
5. Add the Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the orange juice to the butter mixture, alternating with the dry ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. So, you’ll add about 1/3 of the dry ingredients, then 1/2 of the orange juice, then another 1/3 of the dry ingredients, then the remaining orange juice, and finally the last 1/3 of the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough bread.
6. Zest and Vanilla: Stir in the orange zest and vanilla extract. The orange zest really brightens up the flavor of the bread, and the vanilla adds a touch of warmth.
7. Fold in the Goodies: Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and walnuts (or pecans, if using). Make sure the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the batter. I like to toss the cranberries and nuts with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter – this helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.

Baking the Orange Cranberry Bread:

1. Pour into the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. You can use a spatula to smooth the top.
2. Bake: Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The baking time will vary depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around 55 minutes. If the top of the bread is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil.
3. Cool Down: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from sticking to the pan and allows it to cool evenly.

Making the Orange Glaze (Optional):

1. Whisk it Up: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Start with 2 tablespoons of orange juice and add more as needed to reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the bread but thin enough to drizzle.
2. Glaze Away: Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the orange glaze over the top. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving. The glaze adds a beautiful sheen and a burst of extra orange flavor.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Orange Cranberry Bread:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and fresh cranberries will give you the best flavor. If you’re using frozen cranberries, don’t thaw them before adding them to the batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter will result in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
• Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with the sugars. This will ensure that the mixture is light and fluffy.
• Adjust Sweetness to Your Taste: If you prefer a less sweet bread, you can reduce the amount of sugar slightly.
• Add Other Fruits and Nuts: Feel free to experiment with other fruits and nuts. Dried cranberries, raisins, chopped apples, or different types of nuts would all be delicious additions.
• Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the bread for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
• Variations: Consider adding a streusel topping for extra crunch and sweetness. A simple streusel made with flour, butter, and sugar would be a delicious addition. You could also add a cream cheese swirl for a richer, more decadent bread.
• High Altitude Adjustments: If you live at a high altitude, you may need to make some adjustments to the recipe. Try reducing the amount of baking powder by 1/4 teaspoon and increasing the amount of liquid by 1-2 tablespoons.
• Serving Suggestions: This bread is delicious on its own, but it’s also great toasted with butter or cream cheese. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. It also makes a wonderful gift!
• Make it Ahead: You can make the bread a day ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. The flavors will actually meld together and improve overnight.

Troubleshooting:

• Bread is too dry: Make sure you’re not overbaking the bread. Also, check that your oven temperature is accurate. You can also try adding a tablespoon or two of oil to the batter.
• Bread is too dense: This could be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Make sure you’re measuring the flour correctly (spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off) and don’t overmix the batter.
• Bread is sinking in the middle: This could be due to underbaking the bread or opening the oven door too frequently during baking. Make sure the bread is fully baked before removing it from the oven and avoid opening the oven door unnecessarily.
• Bread is burning on top: If the top of the bread is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil.

Why This Recipe Works:

This Orange Cranberry Bread recipe is a classic for a reason. The combination of sweet and tart flavors is irresistible, and the bread is moist and tender. The orange juice and zest add a bright, citrusy flavor, while the cranberries provide a tartness that balances the sweetness. The walnuts (or pecans) add a nutty crunch that complements the other flavors and textures. The optional orange glaze adds a beautiful finishing touch and a burst of extra orange flavor. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious bread that everyone will love.

Enjoy your homemade Orange Cranberry Bread!

Conclusion:

This Orange Cranberry Bread isn’t just another recipe; it’s a slice of sunshine on a cloudy day, a burst of festive cheer any time of year, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone who appreciates a moist, flavorful, and utterly irresistible baked good. The combination of the tangy cranberries, the bright citrus notes of the orange, and the subtle sweetness of the bread itself creates a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds. It’s the kind of bread that disappears quickly, leaving everyone wanting just one more slice. But beyond the incredible taste, what makes this recipe so special is its versatility. It’s perfect as a simple breakfast treat alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Imagine starting your day with a warm slice, lightly toasted and spread with a pat of butter – pure bliss! It also makes a fantastic addition to any brunch spread, adding a touch of elegance and homemade goodness. And don’t underestimate its potential as a dessert! A slice of this bread, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, is a delightful way to end any meal. Looking for variations? The possibilities are endless! For a richer flavor, try adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. The nuts will add a delightful crunch and a nutty undertone that complements the cranberries and orange beautifully. If you’re a fan of chocolate, consider adding some chocolate chips – dark, milk, or white chocolate would all work wonderfully. You could even swirl in a ribbon of cream cheese filling for an extra decadent treat. For a more intense orange flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract to the batter. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the cranberries with other dried fruits, such as cherries or blueberries. Serving suggestions are just as varied. As I mentioned, it’s delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of toppings. A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and orange juice adds a touch of sweetness and shine. A cream cheese frosting is another fantastic option, adding a creamy and tangy element that complements the bread perfectly. You could even get creative and make a cranberry orange compote to serve alongside the bread. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this Orange Cranberry Bread recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a recipe that’s easy to follow, even for beginner bakers, and the results are always impressive. It’s the perfect way to impress your friends and family, or simply to treat yourself to something special. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating something delicious and beautiful. And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Please, leave a comment below and let me know how your bread turned out. Did you make any variations? What did you think of the flavor? I’m always eager to learn from my readers and share in their baking adventures. Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious creations! Print