Cranberry Orange Bread: A Cozy Delight

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Ah, the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. There’s just something undeniably cozy about it, isn’t there? One chilly afternoon a few years ago, I stumbled upon a recipe for Cranberry Orange Bread while sorting through my grandmother’s old recipe box. As I flipped through the faded cards, the citrus notes danced in my memory — the bright, zesty smell sweeping through her warm kitchen while the cranberry-orange batter bubbled away in the oven. That first slice was pure magic; the tartness of the cranberries perfectly balanced with the sweet, refreshing notes of orange. It warmed both my heart and my belly. I loved not only the taste but how it brought everyone together, each bite igniting memories of laughter and warmth. I knew then that this cozy delight deserved a place in my own kitchen traditions, and trust me, it’s bound to become a cherished recipe in yours, too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll feel like a baking pro in no time!
• Quick bake time: Whip up this loaf while your favorite movie is on. Before you know it, the aroma will have everyone eager for a slice!
• Healthy twist: Full of fresh cranberries and packed with vitamin C from the oranges, it’s a delightful way to treat yourself!
• Flavorful: Every bite is a harmony of tart and sweet that leaves you craving just one more slice.
• Great for gatherings: This bread is a crowd-pleaser! Perfect for brunch, a cozy gathering, or simply a little “me time.”

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This will provide the perfect structure for your bread. Don’t forget to spoon and level it for accuracy!
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped: Fresh is best for juicy bursts of tart goodness. If you can, try to use frozen cranberries in a pinch – they work just fine!
• 1 cup sugar: This provides sweetness and helps balance the tart cranberries. You can adjust this to your liking!
• 1/2 cup orange juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal for that bright, zesty flavor that really shines.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil: This keeps your bread moist and tender. You could also use melted coconut oil for a twist!
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: This gives your bread that lovely rise!
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works hand-in-hand with the baking powder for an extra lift.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch that enhances all the flavors in your bread. Just a little goes a long way!
• 2 large eggs: These help to bind everything together and add richness to the flavor.
• Zest of 1 orange: This adds a delightful burst of citrus aroma. Don’t skip it; it’s like sunshine in your loaf!
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): A sweet drizzle on top that perfectly complements the bread.
• 2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze): This adds that tangy goodness to the glaze, making it irresistible.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a lovely loaf pan with a bit of oil or butter. This way, your bread will slide right out when it’s time!

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. The blend of these ingredients creates the canvas for your bread!

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vegetable oil until it’s bright and bubbly. This combination adds such richness and flavor.

4. Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the mixing bowl full of dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Then, gently fold in those bright cranberries – every bite will have a surprise!

5. Pour into Loaf Pan

Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Watch how well it fills the pan and feel that comforting anticipation for the delicious bread that’s about to rise.

6. Bake

Pop your loaf into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The smell of orange and cranberries will soon fill your home, filling it with cozy vibes. Check for doneness with a toothpick — it should come out clean!

7. Glaze and Cool

Once your bread is cool, mix the powdered sugar with orange juice for a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over your cool bread, letting it beautifully cascade down the sides.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the splats: Embrace the rustic look! If you have clumps of cranberries visible, it just adds to the charm.
• Let it cool completely: Resist the urge to slice right away, as it helps firm up the loaf for clean slices.
• Use a toothpick: Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — if it comes out clean, it’s time to shine!

Flavor Variations

• Add nuts: Toss in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Spice it up: A ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a wonderful warmth to the flavor profile.
• Mix in chocolate: For the chocolate lovers, fold in some dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist!

Serving Suggestions

Slice up this gorgeous loaf alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee. It’s also perfect for brunch with friends, served on a rustic wooden board with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a bit of extra flair.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can easily prep the dry ingredients in advance and store them in an airtight container for a quick baking day! The bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days if it lasts that long!

Leftovers

Turn leftover bread into delightful French toast or even a scrumptious bread pudding — your family will thank you for the treat!

Freezing

You can freeze this bread! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

For the best result, warm individual slices in a toaster for a bit of a crispy edge, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy them soft and warm.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! Just toss them in while still frozen to keep the batter from turning pink.

Can I substitute the vegetable oil?
Of course! Melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce can work as fantastic substitutes!

Is this bread gluten-free?
Yes! You can swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free version.

Why did my bread sink in the middle?
It may not have been baked long enough or might have been over-mixed. Always check for doneness and handle your batter with love!

Final Thoughts

Baking together can create warm memories and heartfelt connections, just like that first experience in my grandmother’s kitchen. As you whip up this Cranberry Orange Bread, I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought to my family and me. So gather your loved ones, fill your home with the intoxicating scents of orange and cranberry, and enjoy every cozy moment. Happy baking, dear friends! 🍞❤️