Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of orange zest. This moist and tender bread is perfect for holiday mornings or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea. The festive citrus aroma fills your kitchen, making it an irresistible addition to your baking repertoire. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious homemade loaf, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Bread

This Cranberry Orange Bread is not just any loaf; it stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly moist and bursting with fresh flavors, thanks to the combination of cranberries and orange juice. Second, the recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Additionally, this bread can be made with optional nuts, giving it a delightful crunch. Perfect as a Cranberry Orange Loaf or as part of your breakfast spread, it’s versatile enough for any occasion. With its bright colors, it’s also visually appealing, making it a great gift for the holidays. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal fruits and a great source of comfort during chilly days. Lastly, it’s vegetarian-friendly, catering to a wide array of dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread

Gather these items:

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup (180 ml) fresh orange juice (2–3 oranges)
Zest of 1 large orange
2 large eggs
½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups (150 g) fresh or frozen cranberries, halved
½ cup (60 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, zest, eggs, oil, and vanilla.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in the halved cranberries and nuts (if using).
Step 6: Spread the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 7: Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing or glazing.
Step 8: For an optional glaze, whisk ½ cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons of orange juice and drizzle over the cooled loaf.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Orange Bread

Keep these in mind:

Use whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Add ½ cup white chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness.
Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the oil for a healthier option.
Replace orange juice with tangerine or clementine juice for a unique twist.
Drizzle with an orange glaze for added flavor.
Make sure to measure your flour correctly to avoid a dense loaf.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Orange Bread

This Cranberry Orange Bread can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting breakfast treat. It’s also delicious toasted with cream cheese, making it a perfect pairing for your morning coffee. For a special touch, slice it and layer it with whipped cream and fresh fruit as a delightful dessert.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Orange Bread

To store your Cranberry Orange Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and toast it or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Bread

What is Cranberry Orange Bread?

Cranberry Orange Bread is a sweet, moist loaf that combines fresh cranberries with the bright flavor of orange zest and juice. It’s a popular choice during the holiday season and is loved for its festive taste.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cranberry Orange Bread ahead of time. It stays fresh for several days and can also be frozen for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it well to maintain its moisture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Orange Bread?

To avoid mistakes, ensure that you measure the flour correctly and don’t overmix the batter. This will help keep your Cranberry Orange Loaf light and fluffy. Also, check the bread for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.

Variations of Cranberry Orange Bread You Can Try

There are several fun variations of Cranberry Orange Bread to explore. Consider adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist, or mix in some chopped nuts for added texture. You can also make a Cranberry Orange Muffin Bread version by baking the batter in muffin tins. Lastly, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile, perfect for the holidays.

For more delicious recipes, check out Cranberry Orange Pancakes or Cranberry Butter. If you’re interested in baking with seasonal fruits, you might also enjoy Holiday Yogurt Parfaits!

Moist Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe for the Holidays

Author: basmer
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Cranberry Orange Bread is moist, tender, and bursting with festive citrus flavor. With bright orange zest, fresh cranberries, and a soft crumb, it’s the perfect loaf for holiday mornings, cozy afternoons, or gifting to loved ones.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a bowl, whisk orange juice, zest, eggs, oil, and vanilla.
In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
Fold in halved cranberries and nuts (if using).
Spread batter into loaf pan and bake 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool 10 minutes in pan, then transfer to a rack. Cool fully before slicing or glazing.
Whisk ½ cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons orange juice and drizzle over cooled loaf.