Cranberry Orange Bread

Name: Cranberry Orange Bread: A Must-Try Festive Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489512H42M19S
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Posted on October 25, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Cranberry Orange Bread

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through my kitchen. One of my absolute favorites is Cranberry Orange Bread. This delightful quick bread combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges, creating a festive treat that’s perfect for busy days. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a cozy snack for your family, this recipe is a wonderful solution. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a holiday tradition!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Bread

This Cranberry Orange Bread is not just a treat; it’s a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking only about 15 minutes of prep time. The combination of sweet and tart flavors dances on your palate, making it a delightful addition to any holiday spread. Plus, it fills your home with a cozy aroma that instantly lifts your spirits. Who wouldn’t love that?

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your delicious Cranberry Orange Bread. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your bread, providing structure and texture. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Fresh cranberries: These little gems add a burst of tartness. If fresh ones are hard to find, frozen cranberries work just as well—just don’t thaw them before using!
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the bread and balances the tartness of the cranberries. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Orange juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brings a vibrant flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice can work, but fresh is always best.
Vegetable oil: This keeps the bread moist and tender. You can swap it for melted butter for a richer flavor.
Large eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and add moisture. For a vegan option, consider using flax eggs or applesauce.

Orange zest: This adds a fragrant citrus note that enhances the overall flavor. Make sure to zest only the orange part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bread rise, giving it a light texture.
Baking soda: Works in tandem with the baking powder to ensure your bread is fluffy and delicious.

Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Cranberry Orange Bread bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a loaf pan and grease it with a bit of vegetable oil or butter. This step is crucial to prevent sticking. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a beautiful loaf that won’t come out of the pan!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is important because it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed. A good mix here means a fluffy, delightful bread. Plus, it’s a great way to get your arm workout in for the day!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and orange zest. Make sure to mix them well until everything is combined. The orange zest is the secret weapon here, adding a burst of flavor that will make your bread sing! This mixture should be smooth and inviting, just like the aroma that will soon fill your kitchen.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! This is where the magic happens, as the flavors start to meld together. You’re one step closer to enjoying your Cranberry Orange Bread!

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries

Next, it’s time to fold in those beautiful chopped cranberries. Use a spatula to gently incorporate them into the batter. This step is all about being gentle; you want to keep the cranberries intact for that delightful burst of tartness in every bite. It’s like adding little jewels to your bread, making it even more special!

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Now, pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The anticipation will be worth it as your kitchen fills with that heavenly aroma of Cranberry Orange Bread!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to remove. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. The hardest part? Waiting for it to cool before slicing! But trust me, the wait will be worth it when you take that first bite.

Tips for Success

Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor, but frozen works too—just don’t thaw!
Measure your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay for a tender bread.

Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Equipment Needed

Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best, but any similar-sized pan will do.

Mixing bowls: Use one large bowl for dry ingredients and another for wet. Any size will work!
Whisk: A simple whisk is perfect for mixing, but a fork can do the job too.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is great for folding in cranberries and scraping the bowl.

Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy, but you can use any cup for rough estimates.

Variations of Cranberry Orange Bread

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Chocolate Twist: Fold in some dark chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the tart cranberries.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk instead of orange juice for a plant-based treat.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Bread

Serve warm with a pat of butter for a comforting treat.
Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
Slice and serve with a dollop of cream cheese for a creamy contrast.

Garnish with fresh orange slices for a festive touch.
Wrap slices in decorative paper for a charming gift idea.

FAQs about Cranberry Orange Bread

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just remember not to thaw them before adding them to the batter. They’ll add a lovely burst of tartness!

How should I store Cranberry Orange Bread?

Store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze it for up to three months.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! This Cranberry Orange Bread is perfect for making ahead. Bake it a day or two in advance, and it will still taste fresh. Just make sure to store it properly!

What can I serve with Cranberry Orange Bread?

This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve it with cream cheese or butter for a delicious treat. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack!

Can I add other fruits to the recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding other fruits like blueberries or chopped apples. Just keep in mind that the balance of flavors may change, so adjust the sugar accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Making Cranberry Orange Bread is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with loved ones. The vibrant flavors and delightful aroma fill your home with warmth, making it a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. Each slice is a little piece of happiness, whether enjoyed with family or gifted to friends. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished tradition in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the holiday spirit, and let the magic of Cranberry Orange Bread brighten your days!