Cranberry Orange Bread -

The vibrant colors of cranberries and the zesty, fresh flavor of oranges are the perfect pairing for a delicious, aromatic bread that’s bursting with flavor. Cranberry Orange Bread is the ultimate comfort food for the fall and winter months, making it the ideal treat for breakfast, brunch, or as a gift during the holiday season. The tart cranberries and sweet orange zest combine in this easy-to-make loaf, creating a perfectly balanced sweetness and tanginess that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

In this article, I’ll take you through everything you need to know to make the best Cranberry Orange Bread. From step-by-step instructions to expert tips, I’ll guide you through the process to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time. Plus, we’ll explore why this is such a fantastic bread for any occasion, and I’ll even share some fun variations and ways to customize the recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Bread

Cranberry and orange are a classic flavor combination that’s been enjoyed for generations, and for good reason. Here’s why this bread is such a standout:

Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The tartness of the cranberries and the bright, citrusy punch from the orange zest create a harmonious blend of flavors that are refreshing and vibrant.
Moist and Tender: This bread is incredibly moist, thanks to the use of buttermilk and orange juice, and has a soft, tender crumb that’s irresistible.
Easy to Make: You don’t need any special equipment to make this delicious bread just a mixing bowl, a loaf pan, and a whisk. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that comes together in no time.
Versatile for All Occasions: Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving breakfast, a Christmas gift, or as a delicious snack, this bread is perfect for any occasion. It’s also a great way to use up fresh cranberries when they’re in season.
Gift-Worthy: Cranberry orange bread makes an excellent homemade gift. Wrap it in parchment paper or a cute loaf box with a ribbon, and it’s ready to give to friends, family, or neighbors.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread

This Cranberry Orange Bread requires only a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

For the Bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour (the base of the bread)
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder (to help the bread rise)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (for extra lift and texture)
1/4 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for warmth and spice)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (adds richness and tenderness)
1 cup granulated sugar (for sweetness)
2 large eggs (to bind everything together)
1/2 cup buttermilk (adds moisture and richness)
1/2 cup fresh orange juice (for a fresh, citrusy flavor)
2 tablespoons orange zest (to really bring out the orange flavor)
1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries, chopped if large (you can also use frozen cranberries)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for an added depth of flavor)

For the Glaze (Optional):

1/2 cup powdered sugar (for sweetness)
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (to make the glaze and enhance the flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Bread

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started on making this delicious Cranberry Orange Bread. The process is straightforward and easy to follow. Here’s how to make it:

Directions:

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the buttermilk, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense bread.
Add the Cranberries:
- Gently fold the fresh cranberries into the batter. If you’re using large cranberries, you can chop them in half to make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the bread.
Pour the Batter into the Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. The batter will be thick, but that’s perfectly normal.
Bake the Bread:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean (or with just a few moist crumbs). The bread should be golden brown on top, and the edges should be slightly pulling away from the pan.
Cool the Bread:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the bread set and prevents it from falling apart when slicing.
Make the Glaze (Optional):
- While the bread is cooling, you can make the orange glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth and pourable. Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top for an added burst of sweetness and citrus flavor.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the bread has cooled completely and the glaze has set, slice it into thick slices and serve. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee, tea, or as a delightful breakfast treat.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Bread

Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries work best in this recipe, as they provide a burst of tartness that balances the sweetness of the bread. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, you can use frozen cranberries just be sure to chop them before folding them into the batter to ensure even distribution.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: When you’re combining the wet and dry ingredients, be sure not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so stir until everything is just combined and a few streaks of flour remain.
Chop the Cranberries: If the cranberries are large, consider chopping them in half. This helps them distribute more evenly throughout the bread and prevents big clumps of fruit.
Check for Doneness Early: Ovens vary in temperature, so start checking your bread at 50 minutes. If the bread is browning too quickly on top, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully done.
Let It Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps the texture set and ensures that it won’t fall apart when you cut it.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

Add Nuts: For extra crunch, you can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. These nuts pair beautifully with the cranberry-orange flavor and add texture to every bite.
Spiced Orange: To add more spice, you can increase the amount of cinnamon or add cloves and allspice for a more complex flavor profile. This is a great way to give the bread an extra cozy, fall-inspired touch.
Make it Vegan: If you’re looking for a vegan version of this bread, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter and replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken). Use a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) in place of buttermilk.
Add Chocolate Chips: If you love a little sweetness with your fruit, consider adding white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips to the batter. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with the tart cranberries and adds a touch of indulgence.
Double the Recipe: If you’re making this bread for a crowd, it’s easy to double the recipe. Simply bake two loaves and share them with friends, family, or neighbors. They’ll love the delicious aroma and the sweet, citrusy flavor.

Nutritional Information and Health Considerations

While Cranberry Orange Bread is a delicious treat, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s a sweet dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information per slice (based on 12 slices per loaf):

Calories: 220-250 per slice (depending on the size of the slices and the glaze)
Protein: 2-3g (from the eggs and flour)
Carbohydrates: 35-40g (mostly from sugar, flour, and cranberries)
Fat: 9-10g (mostly from the butter)
Fiber: 2-3g (from the cranberries and flour)
Sugar: 20-25g (from granulated sugar and cranberries)
Sodium: 200-250mg (from butter, baking soda, and baking powder)

Health Considerations:

High in Sugar: Like many baked goods, cranberry orange bread does contain a fair amount of sugar. If you’re trying to cut back on sugar, you can try reducing the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe, or you could substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit. However, keep in mind that this may change the flavor and texture slightly, so it’s important to test it out and adjust as needed.
Saturated Fat from Butter: The bread contains butter, which provides a rich flavor and moisture. However, it’s also a source of saturated fat, so it’s important to enjoy this bread as an occasional treat, rather than a daily indulgence. If you’re concerned about fat intake, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based oil or coconut oil for a lighter option.
Cranberries Add Nutrients: Fresh cranberries are full of antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and fiber, which help boost your immune system and support digestive health. They also contain powerful compounds that may promote heart health and lower inflammation.
Buttermilk for Richness: Buttermilk adds richness to the bread while also helping to keep the crumb tender. It’s a great source of calcium and potassium. However, if you’re watching your dairy intake, you can substitute the buttermilk with non-dairy milk and a tablespoon of vinegar to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.
Portion Control: This cranberry orange bread, while delicious, is a treat best enjoyed in moderation. A small slice (about 1/12 of the loaf) can give you all the satisfaction you need without going overboard. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a more balanced snack.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

Cranberry Orange Bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other flavors to create a delightful experience. Here are some serving suggestions and ideas to enhance your enjoyment of this fall-inspired bread:

Serve with Tea or Coffee: The citrusy flavor and sweetness of the cranberry orange bread pair beautifully with a hot cup of herbal tea, black tea, or coffee. The warm beverage complements the bread’s texture, making it a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
Top with Whipped Cream or Butter: For an extra indulgent treat, serve the bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of butter. The creaminess of the whipped topping contrasts with the bread’s moist, fluffy texture and enhances the flavor.
Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: If you’re serving this bread for dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream on the side is a delightful complement. The cool, creamy ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm, spiced bread.
Make It a Breakfast Delight: Toast a slice of cranberry orange bread and top it with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a hearty breakfast that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Pair with Fresh Fruit: Fresh fruit, especially berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, pairs wonderfully with the sweet, tangy bread. You can even serve the bread alongside a fruit salad for a more refreshing contrast.
Make It a Dessert Sandwich: For a fun twist, slice the cranberry orange bread and turn it into a dessert sandwich by filling it with cream cheese frosting or a layer of chocolate ganache. It’s a sweet and decadent treat that will wow your guests.

FAQ Section

Can I make this cranberry orange bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cranberry orange bread ahead of time. The bread will keep well in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for up to a week. If you need to store it longer, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in place of fresh. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand just fold them directly into the batter while they’re still frozen. However, frozen cranberries can sometimes release more juice, which may make the bread slightly wetter, so it may take a little longer to bake. Make sure to check the bread’s doneness with a toothpick to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this bread gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a high-quality gluten-free blend that’s suitable for baking. You may also need to add xanthan gum (about 1/2 teaspoon) to help bind the bread together and improve its texture.

How do I make the glaze thicker?
If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can add more powdered sugar until it reaches your desired consistency. If the glaze is too thick, you can thin it out with an extra teaspoon of orange juice. Adjust to your liking for the perfect drizzle over the bread.

Cooking Notes and Final Tips

Chef’s Notes:
The key to a perfectly moist cranberry orange bread is not overmixing the batter. Stir until just combined, and be careful not to overwork the dough. Overmixing can result in a dense, heavy bread, while gently mixing will yield a light, fluffy loaf.

Pro Tips:

Test the Bread Early: Ovens vary in temperature, so start checking the bread at around 50 minutes of baking time. If it looks like it’s browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: To get a smooth batter, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold butter can make the batter lumpy, and cold eggs may cause the batter to seize up.
Enhance the Orange Flavor: For a more pronounced orange flavor, increase the amount of orange zest or add a little bit of orange extract to the batter. This will intensify the citrus flavor and make it even more aromatic.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Orange Bread is the perfect fall and holiday treat, combining sweet, tart cranberries with the bright flavor of oranges in a soft, tender loaf. It’s perfect for gifting, sharing with friends and family, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you serve it with a drizzle of orange glaze or eat it plain, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turned out in the comments below! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. And be sure to check out my other delicious seasonal recipes for more inspiration.

Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious slice of this cranberry orange bread!

Cranberry Orange Bread