Cranberry Orange Bread
Indulge in the delightful combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges with this cranberry orange bread. This moist, flavorful loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a festive gift. The vibrant colors and fragrant aroma make it a wonderful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. With easy steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious bread that everyone will adore. Let’s get started on this scrumptious treat!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes one 9×5 inch loaf, serving about 8 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a baking time of 50-60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Total Fat: 7g
– Sodium: 150mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 25g
– Sugars: 10g
– Protein: 2g
This nutritional information is based on a serving size of one slice.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
3. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the orange juice and zest until combined.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
8. Fold in the chopped cranberries gently.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
10. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
11. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh cranberries with dried cranberries for a sweeter flavor, or use almond flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, orange juice can be replaced with lemon juice for a different citrus twist.
Serving and Pairings
This cranberry orange bread is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a dollop of cream cheese or a smear of butter. Serve it alongside coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven for a few minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using old cranberries can affect the flavor; always use fresh.
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense bread; mix just until combined.
- Not greasing the pan properly may cause the bread to stick.
- Underbaking can result in a soggy loaf; ensure it’s fully baked.
- Forgetting to zest the orange can reduce flavor intensity.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Wrap the bread in foil for a moist loaf.
- Try adding a glaze of powdered sugar and orange juice on top.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it wrapped at room temperature.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Yes, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use non-dairy butter and milk for a vegan-friendly option.
What’s the best way to serve cranberry orange bread?
It’s delicious warm or at room temperature, with butter or cream cheese for added richness.
Conclusion
Cranberry orange bread is the perfect blend of tart and sweet, making it a beloved favorite for many occasions. Whether served at breakfast or as a snack, this moist and flavorful loaf is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the delightful taste and aroma that fills your kitchen while baking this wonderful treat!
Cranberry Orange Bread
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fresh cranberries chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the orange juice and zest until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped cranberries gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.