Cranberry Orange Bread: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

January 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this cranberry orange bread! It’s one of my absolute favorite quick breads to whip up, especially during the holiday season. The combination of tart cranberries and bright, zesty orange creates such a delightful flavor explosion that I just can’t resist. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; the aroma wafting through the house was so inviting that my relatives couldn’t wait to dig in! This bread is incredibly moist, and the hint of orange zest just takes it to the next level. Trust me, once you slice into this beautiful loaf, you’ll be greeted with a warm, inviting smell that’ll have everyone flocking to the kitchen. It’s a recipe that always brings a smile to my face, and I know it will for you too!

cranberry orange bread - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make your scrumptious cranberry orange bread. I promise you’ll find these ingredients simple and straightforward!

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup fresh cranberries, rinsed and halved (or you can use frozen, just don’t thaw them!)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1/4 cup vegetable oil (feel free to swap in melted coconut oil for a different flavor)
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 tablespoon grated orange zest (this is where the magic happens, so don’t skip it!)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Make sure you have everything ready before you start mixing. It really makes the process smoother and more enjoyable!

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get this cranberry orange bread baking! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious loaf ready to enjoy in no time.

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, you want that warm oven ready for your batter!
While the oven is heating up, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good stir until everything is evenly mixed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and that fragrant grated orange zest. This is where the magic starts to happen, so make sure it’s well blended!
Now, gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined—don’t overdo it! A few lumps are perfectly fine; we want a moist bread, not a tough one.
Next, fold in your fresh cranberries with a gentle hand. You want them evenly distributed without smashing them to bits!
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, making sure it’s evenly spread out. I like to give it a little shake to settle it in nicely.
Now, pop that pan into the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Ooh, that smell will be heavenly!
Once it’s baked, let your bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This part is tough, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade cranberry orange bread! Slice it up and enjoy the fruits of your labor (pun intended!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, this cranberry orange bread is a game changer! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore making it:

It’s a quick bread, so it comes together in no time—perfect for those busy mornings or last-minute gatherings!
The flavor is out of this world! The tart cranberries paired with the fresh orange make each bite a burst of sunshine.
Using fresh ingredients means you’re treating yourself to a delicious and wholesome loaf. Seriously, the freshness shines through!
It’s incredibly moist, thanks to the combination of orange juice and oil, which keeps it tender and delightful.
This recipe is super versatile; you can easily add nuts or spices to customize it to your liking!
It’s a crowd-pleaser—everyone, from kids to grandparents, will enjoy a slice (or two!) with their morning coffee or tea.

Trust me, once you bake this, you’ll be hooked and craving more of that delightful flavor in no time!

Tips for Success

To make sure your cranberry orange bread turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks:

Don’t overmix! When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is moistened. A few lumps are totally fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and we want it light and fluffy!
Room temperature eggs are key! They blend more easily into the batter, helping to create a smooth mixture. Just take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start baking.
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients. It really complements the orange and cranberry beautifully!
Adjust baking time based on your oven. Every oven is a little different, so start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark. If the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, that’s perfect!
Experiment with mix-ins! If you like a bit of crunch, try adding walnuts or pecans. Just fold them in gently with the cranberries.
Let it cool completely before slicing. This will help it set up nicely and prevent it from crumbling when you cut into it. I know it’s hard to resist, but waiting is worth it!
Store it right! Keep your bread in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moisture. If you want it to last longer, wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to three months!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a cranberry orange bread pro in no time! Happy baking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit with your cranberry orange bread, I’ve got some fantastic variations to try! Each one brings a unique twist to the classic recipe, and I can’t wait for you to experiment!

Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an extra crunch. They complement the tart cranberries beautifully!
Spiced Up: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for chilly days.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (dark or white) with the cranberries for a decadent, sweet twist. Who can resist chocolate, right?
Coconut Craze: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flavor. It pairs surprisingly well with the orange and cranberry!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free too!
Lemon Zest: Swap out the orange zest for lemon zest if you’re in the mood for a bright, zesty flavor. It gives the bread a fresh, tangy profile that’s equally as delightful.
Dried Fruit Medley: Use a mix of dried cranberries, apricots, and cherries instead of fresh cranberries for a chewy texture and varied sweetness.

These variations are all super easy to incorporate, and they’ll keep your cranberry orange bread exciting and fresh every time you make it. Feel free to mix and match—there are no rules in the kitchen! Enjoy experimenting!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about what you’re getting with each slice of this delightful cranberry orange bread! Here are some typical nutritional values to keep in mind. Just remember, these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 180
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg

So there you have it! Enjoy this tasty treat knowing you’re indulging in something that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a bit of goodness to your day!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your cranberry orange bread fresh and delicious, proper storage is key! Here’s how to do it:

Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy your bread within a week, simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps it moist and flavorful. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up!
Refrigeration: If you want to extend its life a bit longer, pop it in the fridge. Just be aware that refrigeration can sometimes dry out baked goods, so I recommend wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to minimize moisture loss.
Freezing: For even longer storage, freeze your cranberry orange bread! Slice it first, then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can grab a slice whenever the craving strikes! It’ll keep well for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen slices, just take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you want to warm them up, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or toast them lightly. This brings back that fresh-baked warmth and flavor, making it feel like it just came out of the oven!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor your cranberry orange bread for days to come! Enjoy every last bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about cranberry orange bread? No worries! I’m here to help with some of the most common queries I get about this delicious recipe:

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries work well, especially if you soak them in warm water or orange juice for a bit to plump them up. They’ll add a lovely sweetness to the bread!

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make cranberry orange bread ahead of time! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to store it properly to keep it fresh!

What can I serve with cranberry orange bread?

This bread is delightful on its own, but you can also serve it with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or even a light drizzle of honey. Pairing it with a cup of tea or coffee makes for a lovely snack!

How do I know when my bread is done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cranberry orange bread is ready! The top should also be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.

Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet bread, feel free to reduce the sugar by a couple of tablespoons. Just keep in mind that this may slightly change the texture, but it’ll still be delicious!

If you have any more questions or need tips, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to make your cranberry orange bread experience a fantastic one!

Call to Action

I hope you’re as excited to bake this cranberry orange bread as I am! If you try it out, I’d absolutely love to hear what you think. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts or any tweaks you made to the recipe—I’m always curious to see how everyone puts their own spin on it!

And if you enjoyed the recipe, please consider giving it a rating! It really helps others find this delightful bread and spread the joy of baking. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your gorgeous loaf and share it on social media. Tag me so I can see your creations—I love connecting with fellow home bakers!

Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the wonderful aroma of cranberry orange goodness!

For more delicious recipes, check out Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies or Quick Chicken Stir Fry!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.