Why Make This Recipe
Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat that brightens any day. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges makes it a perfect addition to breakfast or tea time. This bread is easy to make and can be enjoyed by everyone, whether during the holiday season or any time of the year.
This recipe is not just about enjoying a great slice of bread. It’s about creating flavors that layer beautifully together. The moist texture and sweet glaze make it incredibly hard to resist. Plus, it fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma while it bakes, making it a wonderful cooking experience.
Equipment Needed for Cranberry Orange Bread
To prepare Cranberry Orange Bread, you’ll need the following tools:
- Two 9×5 loaf pans
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spray
- Cooling rack
What You Need to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
Gather these ingredients before starting your baking adventure:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- Orange zest (from 2 large oranges)
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup oil (vegetable or canola oil)
- 4 large eggs (slightly beaten)
- 2 Tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh cranberries (halved)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 Tablespoons fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons orange zest
How to Cook Cranberry Orange Bread Step by Step
Start by preheating your oven to 350° F. Prepare your two 9×5 loaf pans by spraying them with cooking spray and then setting them aside for later use.
Next, in a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and orange zest. Stir them well to mix the flavors. After that, add the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to the bowl. Stir these dry ingredients gently, making sure everything is blended well, and then set this mixture aside.
Now, grab a separate medium bowl. Here, you will mix the wet ingredients, which include buttermilk, oil, eggs, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined.
Once both mixtures are ready, it’s time to combine them. Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry mixture, stirring just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough. Once the batter is just combined, gently fold in the halved cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans. If you have extra batter, you could also use mini loaf pans as an alternative. For standard-size loaves, bake them in the preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you choose to bake mini loaves, aim for a cooking time of 35-45 minutes.
If you notice your bread is browning too quickly, don’t hesitate to cover the top with a piece of aluminum foil. This trick will help the inside cook through without drying out the top.
Once baked, remove the loaves from the oven and place them on a cooling rack for around 10 minutes. Use a knife to loosen the sides of the bread from the pans. Carefully remove the loaves from their pans and let them cool completely on the wire rack.
While your bread cools, you can prepare the orange glaze. In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar with fresh orange juice and orange zest. Whisk this until it’s smooth. Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle this delightful glaze over the top. After glazing, slice it up and enjoy immediately.
If there’s any leftover bread, wrap it well and store it at room temperature, where it will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
Making Cranberry Orange Bread is quite simple and only requires a few steps. It starts with mixing sugar and orange zest, creating a flavorful base. Incorporating the dry and wet ingredients will yield a beautiful, aromatic batter.
The halved cranberries add a lovely burst of tartness, creating a perfect balance within the sweet bread. The baking process is where the magic happens, filling your home with mouthwatering scents. Once out of the oven, a lovely orange glaze transforms this bread into a treat you will want to share and savor.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bread
Cranberry Orange Bread is delightful when served warm, but it’s equally delicious at room temperature. Slice it into thick pieces and place them on a decorative platter for sharing.
For an extra special touch, you can serve it with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese. A hot cup of tea or coffee pairs exceptionally well with this sweet bread, making for a cozy snack or breakfast option.
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Bread
This bread complements various dishes well, making it a versatile choice for any meal. It’s perfect for breakfast alongside scrambled eggs, pancakes, or yogurt. For snacks, consider pairing it with fresh fruit or a cheese platter featuring softer varieties like brie.
If you’re looking to create a delightful brunch, serve it with a spinach salad and a light dressing. The sharpness of the salad balances the sweetness of the bread wonderfully.
How to Store Cranberry Orange Bread
If you want to keep your Cranberry Orange Bread fresh, proper storage is essential. Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’s also a great idea to place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Store it at room temperature. This way, it will remain tasty for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it for more extended storage, consider freezing it. To do this, wrap the bread tightly and place it in the freezer where it can last for up to three months.
Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
For the best results, use fresh cranberries when making this recipe. They add the best flavor and texture. If fresh cranberries are not available, frozen cranberries can work too; just don’t thaw them before adding them to your batter.
Make sure to zest the oranges before juicing for the most flavorful bread. The zest holds lots of oils that contribute to the aromatic flavor of the bread.
Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. This simple step can greatly affect the results of your bread, ensuring it rises perfectly during cooking.
Variation
If you want to switch things up a bit, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. You could also try adding some spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra warming flavor.
Another variation is to substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. Whatever adjustments you choose, you’ll still end up with a tasty loaf.
Best Time to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
Cranberry Orange Bread shines throughout the fall and winter but truly is delightful any time of the year. Holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas are perfect occasions to bake and share it.
Even during a cozy afternoon, it can be a wonderful treat to enjoy homemade baking while gathering with friends and family.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake while making this bread is overmixing the batter. Doing so can lead to a dense loaf. Always mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Also, ensure your oven is properly preheated. An oven that is too hot or too cold can impact the rise and baking time of your bread. Be careful when checking for doneness, as overbaking may dry out the bread and diminish its texture.
Lastly, don’t rush the cooling process. Allow the loaves to cool completely before applying the glaze; this prevents it from melting into the warm bread.
Nutritional Notes
If concerned about nutrition, consider that Cranberry Orange Bread can be high in sugar. Choosing to reduce the sugar or adding whole-grain flour can make a healthier variation.
Fresh cranberries also contribute vitamins and antioxidants, adding some nutritional benefits to your treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
A: Yes, dried cranberries can be used in place of fresh ones, though the texture and flavor will differ. You may also want to reduce added sugar to compensate for their sweetness.
Q: Can I make this bread vegan?
A: You can attempt to make a vegan version by replacing eggs with flax eggs and using a plant-based milk alternative instead of buttermilk.
Q: How long does the glaze last after being made?
A: The orange glaze should be used soon after making it for the best flavor and texture. If stored, it can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Bread is a delicious treat, whether enjoyed during the holidays or as a delightful everyday snack. With its vibrant flavors and moist texture, it’s easy to see why this recipe is such a favorite.
Whether you choose to indulge in a warm slice fresh from the oven or serve it beautifully glazed at your next gathering, it promises to be a hit. Prepare this fabulous bread and enjoy the flavors of tart cranberries and zesty oranges in each delicious bite!
