If you love the sweet and tart taste of cranberries paired with bright orange, you’re in for a treat! My simple recipe for Cranberry Orange Bread yields a moist loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. In this guide, I’ll share all the ingredients and steps you need. Plus, I’ll offer tips to ensure every bite is a delight. Let’s dive in and bring some zest to your kitchen!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh cranberries and orange juice creates a vibrant flavor profile that is both tangy and sweet.
- Easy to Make: This bread comes together quickly, making it perfect for a last-minute treat or breakfast option.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy brunch, this bread is a delightful addition to any table.
- Moist and Delicious: The blend of ingredients ensures each slice is moist, flavorful, and satisfying.
Ingredients
List of Main Ingredients
This delicious Cranberry Orange Bread uses simple ingredients. Here’s what you need:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– Zest of 1 large orange
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins and Variations
You can make this bread even more special with add-ins. Here are some ideas:
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– Dried cranberries for extra sweetness
– A pinch of nutmeg for a warm flavor
Feel free to mix and match these options. You can create your own twist on this recipe!
Nutritional Information
This bread is not only tasty but also has some nutrients. Here’s a rough estimate per slice (based on 10 slices):
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 3g
– Carbohydrates: 26g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 8g
This bread can fit into a balanced diet, especially if you enjoy it in moderation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– Zest of 1 large orange
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Grease it with butter or spray. Dust it with flour to keep the bread from sticking.
Combining Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix your dry ingredients. Combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Whisk them together until they are mixed well.
In another bowl, whisk the wet ingredients. Combine orange juice, orange zest, melted butter, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure the mixture is smooth.
Now, slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold them gently. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix; this keeps the bread light and fluffy.
Baking Process
Next, fold in the cranberries and nuts if you choose to use them. Make sure they are spread evenly in the batter.
Pour the batter into your loaf pan. Use a spatula to make it even on top.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 55 to 60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Best Baking Techniques
To bake the best cranberry orange bread, follow these steps:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking.
– Grease your loaf pan with butter and dust it with flour. This keeps the bread from sticking.
– Mix dry ingredients well before adding wet ones. This prevents uneven baking.
– Only fold the batter until it’s just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some common mistakes can ruin your bread:
– Using old baking powder or soda: This can stop your bread from rising.
– Skipping the zest: It adds a nice flavor and aroma.
– Overbaking: Check for doneness with a toothpick. Pull it out when it’s clean.
– Not letting it cool: Cooling helps set the texture.
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To get that light, fluffy texture, do the following:
– Use room temperature eggs and butter. This helps blend the ingredients smoothly.
– Gently fold in cranberries. This keeps the fruit from breaking apart.
– Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring. This helps avoid sogginess.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Cranberries: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh cranberries rather than dried ones. They provide a burst of tartness that complements the sweetness of the bread.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and contributes to a lighter bread.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf, so gentle folding is key.
- Add Extra Zest: For an even more vibrant orange flavor, consider adding a bit more orange zest to the batter. This enhances the citrus aroma and taste of the bread.
Variations
Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bread
You can easily make this bread gluten-free. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for one that works well in baking. Check if it has xanthan gum; this helps with texture. This change keeps the bread light and tasty.
Vegan Cranberry Orange Bread
To make this bread vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with two and a half tablespoons of water for each egg. Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter. You can also use almond or soy milk in place of orange juice if you want a unique twist.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to switch things up? Try adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for warmth. A splash of almond extract can add a nice depth to the flavor. You can also fold in chocolate chips for a sweet touch. Each change makes the bread a new delight.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Bread
Cranberry orange bread tastes best when fresh, but you can store it well. Place the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps it soft and moist. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to save it longer, freezing is the best option.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze cranberry orange bread, first, let it cool completely. Wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double wrap helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy it, simply take it out and let it thaw at room temperature.
How to Reheat for Optimal Freshness
To reheat the bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the bread and place it on a baking sheet. Heat it for about 10 to 15 minutes. This way, the bread stays soft and warm. You can also slice it and toast it lightly in a toaster for a crispy edge. Enjoy your freshly warmed bread!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to chop them finely before adding them to the batter. There is no need to thaw them. Using frozen cranberries can add a nice chill to the bread.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the bread?
To adjust the sweetness, you can play with the sugar amounts. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the granulated sugar to 1/4 cup. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different taste. Taste the batter before baking; it should be sweet but not overpowering.
What can I serve with cranberry orange bread?
Cranberry orange bread is great on its own. However, you can enhance the flavor with a few simple items. Try serving it warm with soft butter. Cream cheese or orange marmalade also pairs nicely. For a delightful twist, enjoy it with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
This blog post covered all you need for delicious cranberry orange bread. We looked at ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best texture. I shared variations like gluten-free and vegan options, plus storage tips to keep bread fresh. Remember, you can adjust sweetness and even use frozen cranberries. Baking should be fun and easy. With the right approach, you can make this bread a hit at any meal. Enjoy your baking journe
