Ah, Cranberry Orange Bread! Just thinking about it brings back the warm, cozy memories of the holidays spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. Every winter, like clockwork, she would whip up a batch, filling our home with that wonderful, citrusy aroma mixed with the tart sweetness of cranberries. It’s one of those recipes that you can’t just eat; you have to truly savor it. Whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread is a comforting hug in food form.
What makes this recipe truly special is the balance of zest and tartness. The bright orange flavor paired with the bursts of juicy cranberries creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing. I can’t remember a holiday gathering where this bread didn’t make an appearance! Trust me—once you try it, you’ll be tempted to make it year-round, because who says you can only enjoy delicious bread during the holidays?
What’s in Cranberry Orange Bread?
Let’s break down the ingredients that transform simple pantry staples into this delightful bread:
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of our bread, providing texture. I usually opt for unbleached flour for a more natural taste.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key! Sugar doesn’t just sweeten; it also helps with texture and browning.
Baking Powder: This is our leavening agent, helping the bread rise and keep its fluffy interior.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors; don’t skip it!
Orange Zest: This is where the magic happens! A good amount of fresh orange zest infuses the bread with that bright and zingy flavor.
Orange Juice: Using real orange juice adds moisture and more of that delicious citrus flavor.
Egg: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and give the bread a lovely texture.
Unsalted Butter: Butter brings richness and moisture. I always melt it for easy incorporation.
Cranberries: The star of the show! Whether you’re using fresh or dried cranberries, they offer a tart burst of flavor that makes each bite special.
Walnuts (optional): If you enjoy a little crunch, add chopped walnuts for added texture. I absolutely love them in this recipe!
Is Cranberry Orange Bread Good for You?
Let’s chat about health! Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat, but like all sweet breads, moderation is key.
Cranberries: These tiny powerhouses are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins, particularly Vitamin C. They also promote heart health and can help prevent urinary tract infections. Just think of all that goodness!
Oranges: Packed with Vitamin C, oranges can boost your immune system and add a refreshing zing!
While it can be tempting to eat multiple slices (trust me, I’ve been there), remember that this bread does contain sugar and butter. If you want to lighten it up a bit, consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar slightly. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup!
Ingredients List
This recipe makes about 1 loaf, serving roughly 8-10 slices.
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup walnuts (optional), chopped
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread?
Ready to get baking? Here’s how we do it:
1. **Preheat** your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. **In a mixing bowl**, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest.
3. **In a separate bowl**, mix the orange juice, egg, and melted butter until well combined.
4. **Combine the wet and dry ingredients.** Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
5. **Fold in the cranberries** (and walnuts if using) until evenly distributed.
6. **Pour the batter** into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. **Bake** for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen should smell divine at this point!
8. **Let it cool** in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Sweet Tips and Variations for Cranberry Orange Bread
Here are some ideas to keep your Cranberry Orange Bread exciting:
– **Add Spices:** Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, warm flavor.
– **Glaze it Up:** Drizzle a simple orange glaze made with powdered sugar and orange juice over the top once it’s cooled for extra sweetness.
– **Bread Pudding Twist:** Leftover bread? Turn it into a delicious bread pudding!
Serve slices of this delightful bread with a pat of butter or cream cheese for an elevated experience.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! It’s one of those that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. So, grab your apron and some cranberries, and let’s bake some love into your kitchen. I would love to hear how it turns out for you—don’t be shy to share your results! Happy baking!