Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful blend of tart cranberries and bright citrus flavor, perfect for breakfast or a snack. This moist and flavorful bread combines fresh ingredients for a homemade treat that’s both easy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking and a golden crust.
2. Step 2: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk the orange zest, orange juice, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth.
5. Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined; a few lumps are okay.
6. Step 6: Fold in the fresh cranberries and chopped walnuts, if using, to add texture and flavor bursts.
7. Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smooth the top, and bake for 30-40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Step 8: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier, nuttier flavor.
• Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic option.
• Replace vegetable oil with applesauce to make the bread lighter and reduce fat.
• Frozen cranberries work well if fresh are not available; just thaw and drain before folding in.
• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.

Storage

Store cranberry orange bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. To refresh, warm slices in the oven or toaster briefly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, dried cranberries can be used, but they will provide a different texture and a sweeter flavor. You may want to reduce the sugar slightly and soak dried cranberries in warm water to plump them before adding.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown, and the bread should spring back when gently pressed.

Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 79 reviews

This Cranberry Orange Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread bursting with fresh cranberries and vibrant orange zest. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it combines a tender crumb with a delightful citrus aroma and a touch of crunch from optional walnuts. Easy to prepare and baked to a golden perfection, it’s a wonderful seasonal treat that brings festive flavors to your table.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 10-12 slices) 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Add-ins

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking and a nice golden crust on the bread.
2. Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the orange zest, fresh orange juice, eggs, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and vibrant in color.
5. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; some lumps are okay to help keep the bread tender.
6. Fold in Cranberries and Nuts: Gently fold the fresh cranberries and optional chopped walnuts into the batter to add bursts of flavor and texture throughout the bread.
7. Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully baked.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and enjoying.

Notes

• For a healthier option, substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index.
• Replace vegetable oil with applesauce for a lighter, lower-fat version.
• Frozen cranberries can be used if fresh are not available; thaw slightly before folding into the batter.
• Walnuts are optional but add a nice crunch and flavor.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and moist.

Keywords: Cranberry Orange Bread, Quick Bread, Citrus Bread, Holiday Bread, Moist Bread, Cranberry Recipe, Orange Zest Bread