Irresistible Cranberry Orange Loaf – Quick Bread Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of cranberry orange loaf wafting through the kitchen. It’s like a cozy hug in baked form, inviting you to take a bite and savor its delightful fusion of tart cranberries and zesty oranges. Picture a warm slice, drizzled with a sweet glaze, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack while binge-watching your favorite show. For more inspiration, check out this snack and appetizer recipes recipe.

Every time I make this quick bread, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen during the holidays. The laughter, the family gathering, and that unmistakable warmth of love blended into every slice. This cranberry orange loaf is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings people together during those special moments. So grab your apron, because we are about to embark on a delicious adventure!

I remember the first time I served this loaf at a family brunch; everyone kept asking for seconds and thirds.

this …

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: A staple in baking, use unbleached for better flavor and texture. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert ideas recipe.

• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.

• Baking Powder: This helps the loaf rise beautifully; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.

• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all other flavors without making it salty.

• Eggs: Two large eggs bind everything together and add richness to the loaf.

• Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess or substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.

• Fresh Cranberries: Opt for tart cranberries; frozen ones work too but thaw them first.

• Orange Zest: The zest brings brightness; make sure to use only the colored part of the peel.

• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds natural sweetness and enhances the flavor profile.

• Canola Oil: For moisture without overpowering flavor; feel free to use melted butter instead if preferred.

• Powdered Sugar (for glaze): A simple glaze makes it irresistible; mix with orange juice until smooth.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously with cooking spray or butter.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. You want those dry ingredients to be friends before they meet their wet counterparts.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs until frothy, then mix in milk, canola oil, orange juice, and zest. The smell should transport you straight to a sunny citrus grove.

Add Cranberries and Mix Together: Gently fold in fresh cranberries into the wet mixture before pouring everything into your dry ingredient bowl. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix! We want tender slices here.

Pour into Pan and Bake : Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until golden brown or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Cool Down and Glaze : Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Once cooled completely, drizzle with powdered sugar glaze made from mixing powdered sugar with orange juice until smooth.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful cranberry orange loaf! It pairs perfectly with coffee or tea while creating memories around your table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Combine dry ingredients first, then mix in wet for even distribution. This sequence ensures a light, fluffy texture in your quick bread.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or add nuts for crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile, making it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cranberry orange loaf wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat slices in the microwave for a warm treat anytime.

There was that one Thanksgiving when I made this cranberry orange loaf, and my relatives begged me for the recipe! It was like I had discovered the culinary equivalent of a golden ticket.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries in the cranberry orange loaf?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

How long does the cranberry orange loaf last?

Stored properly, it can last up to three days at room temperature.

Can I make this quick bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for delicious results.

Print

Cranberry Orange Loaf

---

• Author: Teprod
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cranberry Orange Loaf is a delightful quick bread that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange. This easy-to-make loaf fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma and is perfect for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon treat. With its beautiful golden color and sweet glaze, this recipe not only tastes amazing but also serves as an eye-catching centerpiece for gatherings. Whether enjoyed fresh, toasted, or shared with loved ones, this cranberry orange loaf is sure to become a beloved favorite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk)
• 1/2 cup canola oil (or melted butter)
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (or thawed frozen)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add milk, canola oil, orange juice, and zest; mix well.
4. Fold in cranberries into the wet mixture then combine with dry ingredients until just mixed.
5. Pour batter into the loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans. Substitute cranberries with blueberries or dried fruit for different variations. Store leftovers wrapped in plastic at room temperature for up to three days.