Cranberry Orange Bread with Citrus Glaze

Imagine slicing into a loaf of freshly baked cranberry orange bread—its golden crust glistening under a sweet citrus glaze. The moment you take a bite, the tartness of the cranberries balances perfectly with the vibrant zest of fresh oranges. This bread isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a thoughtful homemade gift, this cranberry orange bread will impress every time.

In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about making the perfect cranberry orange bread, from selecting the right ingredients to expert baking tips. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, fresh flavors: The combination of citrusy orange and tart cranberries is refreshing and delicious.
• Moist and tender texture: This bread stays soft and flavorful for days.
• Easy to make: No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for breakfast, dessert, or gifting.
• Versatile: Swap ingredients or add nuts and spices to customize your loaf.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create the most flavorful cranberry orange bread, gather these key ingredients:

For the Bread:

• Fresh or frozen cranberries
• Freshly squeezed orange juice
• Orange zest for a citrusy boost
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder and baking soda
• Unsalted butter or oil
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs for structure
• Greek yogurt or buttermilk for moisture
• Vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Citrus Glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh orange juice
• A touch of zest for extra brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the orange juice, zest, yogurt, and vanilla extract.

4. Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold the cranberries into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overmixing.

5. Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Prepare the Citrus Glaze

While the bread cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice to create a smooth glaze.

7. Glaze and Serve

Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the citrus glaze over the top. Let it set before slicing.

Expert Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Bread

• Use fresh cranberries when in season: They add the best tart flavor.
• Coat cranberries in flour: This prevents them from sinking to the bottom.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense texture.
• Let the loaf cool completely: This prevents the glaze from melting too quickly.
• Add nuts for crunch: Walnuts or pecans complement the flavors beautifully.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap cranberries for blueberries for a different berry twist.
• Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor.
• Make it dairy-free by using coconut oil and almond milk.
• Turn it into muffins by adjusting the baking time to 18-22 minutes.

Storing and Freezing Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to a week.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQ: Cranberry Orange Bread with Citrus Glaze

1. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Rehydrate dried cranberries in warm orange juice for 10 minutes before using.

2. What if I don’t have fresh oranges?

Bottled orange juice works, but fresh juice and zest provide the best flavor.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.

4. How do I keep my bread from becoming dry?

Use yogurt or buttermilk to maintain moisture and avoid overbaking.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use two loaf pans and bake them simultaneously.

Conclusion

Cranberry orange bread with citrus glaze is the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and citrusy flavors. Whether you’re baking it for yourself, your family, or as a holiday gift, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Now that you know all the tips and tricks, it’s time to preheat your oven and start baking. Enjoy!