This cranberry orange bread is a delightful mix of tart cranberries and sweet oranges. It’s soft, moist, and perfect for breakfast or a snack.
I’m always amazed at how the zesty orange flavor makes everything feel bright and cheerful. It’s like a little slice of sunshine! Just slice, spread a bit of butter, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This flour gives structure to the bread. If you want gluten-free options, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Fresh Cranberries: The tartness of fresh cranberries is ideal here. If you can’t find them, dried cranberries work too, but they’re sweetened, which will change the flavor slightly.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both keep the bread moist. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try coconut yogurt or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the salt. If you want a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter.
Orange Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice gives the best flavor! If you’re in a pinch, store-bought orange juice will work. Zest from a different citrus like lemon can add a nice twist.
How Can You Ensure Your Bread is Perfectly Moist?
Keeping your cranberry orange bread moist is key, and here are some tips:
- Use room temperature ingredients like butter, eggs, and yogurt. They mix better, resulting in a smoother batter!
- Avoid overmixing after adding the flour. Just mix until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s perfect!
- Let the bread rest in the pan for a few minutes to retain moisture before transferring it to a wire rack.
With these tips, you’ll have a wonderfully moist and flavorful cranberry orange bread that everyone will enjoy!
Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
For the Optional Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp fresh orange juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cranberry orange bread will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll need to bake it for about 50-60 minutes. Additional cooling time of about 10-15 minutes in the pan, then allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Total time: about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including cooling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This will help your bread come out nice and neatly.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the baking powder and soda, helping your bread rise perfectly. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step is important for a nice texture.
4. Incorporate Eggs and Flavors:
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and the zest of the orange to add that wonderful citrus flavor!
5. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Next, mix in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and the fresh orange juice. Mix until everything is fully combined—this will keep the bread moist and flavorful!
6. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually fold in the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix this batter to maintain a tender crumb.
7. Add Cranberries:
Now, gently fold in the fresh cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This is where the tartness comes in!
8. Pour and Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth it out. Place it in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool the Bread:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Once slightly cooled, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps it firm up and enhances the flavor.
10. Optional Glaze:
For a tasty glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle this delightful glaze over the top for an extra citrus kick!
11. Slice and Serve:
Finally, slice your delicious cranberry orange bread and serve it. It’s perfect as a breakfast treat or a sweet snack anytime of the day!
Enjoy the wonderful combination of tart cranberries and bright orange flavor in every bite! Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your friends and family will love this bread!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh Ones?
Absolutely! If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them. Just toss them directly into the batter. They might give the bread a slightly wetter texture, but it will still be delicious!
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Any Sour Cream?
No worries! You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, plain yogurt, or even buttermilk. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using unsweetened applesauce to keep the bread moist.
How Should I Store Leftover Bread?
Store leftover cranberry orange bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Add Nuts to This Recipe?
Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts would be a tasty addition. Just fold in about 1/2 cup of nuts along with the cranberries for some added crunch!
