This Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the sweetness of cranberries with the bright zest of oranges. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this bread is deliciously moist and has a dense texture that makes it satisfying for any occasion. With an easy prep time of just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for both casual gatherings and special celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy homemade bread without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh cranberries and orange zest delivers a refreshing taste that’s sure to please.
- Versatile Option: Perfect for breakfast or as a dessert, this bread fits seamlessly into any meal.
- Perfectly Moist Texture: The buttermilk and oil ensure every slice is tender and full of flavor.
- Impressive Appearance: The vibrant colors make this bread an eye-catching addition to any table setting.
Tools and Preparation
To create your scrumptious Cranberry Orange Bread, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Loaf pan
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without any spills.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success, ensuring your ingredients balance perfectly.
- Loaf pan: The right size loaf pan will help your bread cook evenly and maintain its shape during baking.
Ingredients
This Cranberry Orange Bread is incredibly moist, deliciously dense, loaded with orange flavor and juicy cranberries, and finished with a sweet orange glaze. Just 15 minutes to prep!
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup canola oil (or other neutral tasting oil)
- ½ cup orange juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons orange juice
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your bread.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Whisk until well blended.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Mix together granulated sugar, orange zest, and eggs.
2. Add in the buttermilk, canola oil, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Stir gently until just combined.
2. Fold in the fresh cranberries. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
If you’d like to add a glaze:
1. In a small bowl, mix together powdered sugar with enough orange juice to reach your desired consistency.
2. Drizzle over cooled bread before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Orange Bread!
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bread
Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Its moist texture and vibrant flavors make it perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
For Breakfast
- Toast with Butter: A simple way to enjoy your bread is by toasting slices and spreading a bit of butter on top for added richness.
- With Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of cream cheese on warm slices for a creamy contrast to the tart cranberries.
As a Snack
- Accompanied by Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a slice with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon snack.
- With Fresh Fruit: Pair it with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
For Dessert
- Drizzled with Glaze: Enhance the sweetness by drizzling an orange glaze over the top before serving.
- Served with Ice Cream: Warm up a slice and serve it alongside vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
How to Perfect Cranberry Orange Bread
To achieve the best results with your Cranberry Orange Bread, follow these tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.
- Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them thoroughly and drain excess moisture.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly to avoid dense bread caused by too much flour.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bread.
- Check Doneness with a Toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready. If not, bake longer.
- Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Orange Bread
Cranberry Orange Bread pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet-tart flavor. Here are some great options:
- Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, Greek yogurt adds protein and pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bread.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad provides crunch and balances the richness of the bread. Add citrus vinaigrette for extra zing.
- Fruit Compote: Top your slices with homemade fruit compote made from berries or apples for added freshness and sweetness.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses (like brie or goat cheese) adds savory notes that enhance the flavors of your bread.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea can round off your meal nicely while enhancing the fruity tones in the bread.
- Smoothie Bowl: Pairing it with a smoothie bowl packed with fruits can create a filling, nutritious meal option that’s both colorful and delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Cranberry Orange Bread even better. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Boldly skip the zest: Not using orange zest means missing out on vital flavor. Always include fresh zest for a more vibrant taste.
- Boldly overlook cranberries: Using dried cranberries instead of fresh can alter the texture and moisture. Stick to fresh cranberries for that juicy burst.
- Boldly ignore measuring: Inaccurate measurements can lead to a dense or dry bread. Use precise measuring tools for best results.
- Boldly rush the baking time: Opening the oven too soon can lead to uneven baking. Always follow the recommended cooking time for consistent results.
- Boldly skip the glaze: Neglecting the sweet orange glaze leaves out a delightful finishing touch. Don’t skip this step; it enhances presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cranberry Orange Bread in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Cranberry Orange Bread
- Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cranberry Orange Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Orange Bread.
Can I use frozen cranberries in my Cranberry Orange Bread?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to your batter.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
How do I know when my Cranberry Orange Bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Can I customize my Cranberry Orange Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or other fruits like blueberries for added flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Orange Bread is not only moist and flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Customize it with your favorite nuts or spices, and enjoy this delightful treat any time of day!
Cranberry Orange Bread
Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful, moist loaf that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges. Perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, this bread has a dense yet tender texture that promises to satisfy. With a straightforward preparation time of just 15 minutes, you can whip up this flavorful treat for any occasion, from casual brunches to festive gatherings. The sweet orange glaze adds a lovely finishing touch, making it not only delicious but visually appealing too.
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup canola oil
- ½ cup orange juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt; whisk until blended.
- In another bowl, mix sugar and orange zest with eggs; add buttermilk, oil, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in cranberries.
- Pour batter into a greased loaf pan; bake for about 75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- For the glaze (optional), mix powdered sugar with enough orange juice to achieve desired consistency and drizzle over cooled bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use fresh cranberries for optimal flavor; if using frozen cranberries, thaw and drain them first. Add chopped nuts or other fruits like blueberries for extra texture and flavor variations. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze slices for longer storage.