Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Cranberry orange bread! It’s this incredible quick bread that’s bursting with flavor and has the most moist, tender crumb you can imagine. The tartness of the fresh cranberries paired with the bright zing of orange zest creates a harmony that’s just irresistible. I whip this up every holiday season, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser at my family gatherings. I love that it fills the house with a cozy aroma that just makes everyone feel warm and happy. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Trust me, once you take a slice warm from the oven, you’ll understand why this recipe has a special place in my heart. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a sweet treat after dinner. You’re going to love it!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped (or use frozen if you can’t find fresh!)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs (make sure they’re at room temperature for better mixing)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (the key to that bright flavor!)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Prepare Cranberry Orange Bread
Let’s dive into making this delicious Cranberry orange bread! I promise it’s easier than you think, and the steps are straightforward. Follow along, and you’ll have a lovely loaf to enjoy in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your bread bakes evenly. Nobody likes a loaf that’s raw in the middle! So, while it heats up, you can get everything else ready.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good stir with a whisk or a fork to make sure everything’s evenly distributed. This will help your bread rise beautifully! Trust me, this little step makes a big difference.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, grab another bowl and whisk together the eggs, orange juice, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Make sure everything is well blended. I love using a fork for this; it really gets the eggs mixed in nicely! The zest is the secret weapon here, adding that burst of flavor!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Next, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Here’s the trick: stir until just combined. You don’t want to overmix; a few lumps are totally okay! Gently folding the ingredients helps keep your bread light and airy.
Step 5: Add Cranberries
Now, it’s time for the star of the show! Fold in those chopped cranberries carefully, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will give you those lovely bursts of tartness in every bite!
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and smooth it out. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Oh, the smell will be heavenly!
Step 7: Cooling the Bread
Once it’s done baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This is crucial because it helps set the texture and makes it easier to remove from the pan. After that, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here; letting it cool ensures every slice is perfect!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying my Cranberry orange bread, it’s nice to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional values per slice, which is about 1/12 of the loaf. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
So, while you’re savoring each slice, you can feel good about the delicious flavors and the balance of ingredients. Enjoy every bite guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making my Cranberry orange bread? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my best tips to help you out!
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well. Just make sure to chop them a bit before adding—they’ll add that same delightful tartness to your bread!
Can I substitute the vegetable oil?
Sure thing! You can use melted butter for a richer flavor or even applesauce if you want to cut down on fat. Both are great alternatives!
How should I store the bread?
Once it’s completely cooled, wrap your Cranberry orange bread in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days! If you want to keep it longer, pop it in the freezer!
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The toothpick test is your best friend! Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. If it’s wet, give it a few more minutes.
Can I add nuts or other fruits?
Of course! Feel free to toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch. Dried fruits like apricots or raisins could also work well if you want to mix it up!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Cranberry orange bread comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of tart cranberries and sweet orange zest creates a delightful balance that’s simply irresistible!
- Moist and Tender: Thanks to the oil and fresh ingredients, each slice is incredibly moist and tender, perfect for savoring.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a cozy afternoon snack, or a sweet addition to your breakfast table, this bread fits right in.
- Versatile: Feel free to experiment! You can add nuts, swap in different fruits, or even adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Freezes Well: Make a double batch and freeze one for later! It’s the ultimate treat to have on hand for unexpected guests.
- Kid-Friendly: This bread is a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone loves that burst of fruity flavor!
Tips for Success
Getting the perfect Cranberry orange bread is all about those little details! Here are my top tips to ensure you bake a loaf that’s not just good, but absolutely amazing!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your cranberries are fresh and not overly soft. Fresh cranberries provide that wonderful tartness and texture. If you’re using frozen, let them thaw and drain excess moisture first!
- Room Temperature Eggs: Bring your eggs to room temperature before mixing. This helps them incorporate better into your batter, leading to a fluffier bread. Just pop them in warm water for a few minutes if you’re short on time!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, remember that a few lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Gently fold until just combined for that light, tender texture.
- Check Your Oven: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. If it’s browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent burning while it cooks through.
- Cool Completely: Allow your bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This step is crucial for achieving the best texture and avoiding a gummy center.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite nuts or even a hint of spice, like cinnamon or nutmeg, for an extra layer of flavor. Just remember to adjust the sugar if you’re adding sweet ingredients!
- Double the Batch: If you’re making this bread for a gathering, consider doubling the recipe! It freezes beautifully, so you’ll always have a delicious treat on hand.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to baking a Cranberry orange bread that’s sure to impress everyone who takes a bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve baked your delicious Cranberry orange bread and devoured a few slices, you’ll want to know how to store the leftovers and keep them tasting fresh! Here’s how I do it:
First, let the bread cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial because wrapping warm bread can trap moisture, leading to sogginess—no one wants that! Once it’s cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it protected. If you have a large airtight container, that’s perfect too!
You can store your Cranberry orange bread at room temperature for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you want to keep it longer, go ahead and freeze it! Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just take it out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. If you prefer it warm, pop the slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or you can toast it lightly in the oven to refresh that lovely crust. Trust me, a warm slice of Cranberry orange bread is pure bliss!