Cranberry Orange Loaf

Making a Cranberry Orange Loaf is a delightful way to enjoy the zesty flavors of orange combined with the tart sweetness of cranberries. This moist and flavorful bread is not only perfect for breakfast but also makes a wonderful afternoon snack or dessert. Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with freshness, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

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Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Loaf

This Cranberry Orange Loaf offers an excellent balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The bright notes of orange zest paired with the juicy cranberries create a beautiful medley that’s hard to resist. This loaf captures the essence of festive occasions but is easy enough to whip up any day of the week, making it an incredibly versatile recipe. It’s also perfect for sharing with family and friends, bringing smiles all around.

The bread has a lovely texture, enhanced by the addition of nuts, if desired, which add a satisfying crunch. Not to mention, your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing while it bakes! With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is truly a winner for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Loaf

To create this delightful Cranberry Orange Loaf, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (chopped if large)
• Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• Optional glaze: ½ cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tbsp orange juice

Ingredient Notes

• Flour: All-purpose flour works great for this loaf, but you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Butter: For a dairy-free version, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
• Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal, but frozen cranberries can be used as a convenient substitute. Just don’t thaw them beforehand to avoid excessive moisture.
• Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch and flavor to the loaf, but they are completely optional. For nut-free options, simply leave them out.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan (9×5 inches) with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2 – Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you turn your focus to the wet ingredients.

Step 3 – Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream the two together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4 – Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Next, add the fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 5 – Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet batter, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf.

Step 6 – Fold in Cranberries and Nuts

Gently fold in the cranberries and chopped nuts (if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7 – Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8 – Cool and Glaze

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you’d like to add a glaze, mix the powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled loaf.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and fresh cranberries will make all the difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the loaf light and fluffy.
3. Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness at the 55-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
4. Cool Completely Before Slicing: This allows the loaf to set properly, making it easier to slice without crumbling.
5. Enhance with Spices: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

Learn how adding more fiber to your diet can benefit your health – visit Harvard’s Nutrition Source on Fiber

Flavor Variations

1. Cranberry Lemon Loaf: Substitute half of the orange juice with lemon juice and add lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
2. Chocolate Chip Cranberry Loaf: Fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a deliciously decadent loaf.
3. Pumpkin Cranberry Loaf: Replace the butter with pumpkin puree for a moist, fall-inspired version.
4. Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Loaf: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring the blend includes xanthan gum.
5. Herbed Cranberry Orange Loaf: Add finely chopped rosemary or thyme for a unique savory element.

Serving Suggestions

This Cranberry Orange Loaf is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your presentation by serving it with:

• A side of cream cheese or mascarpone spread for a rich treat.
• Slices of fresh fruit like oranges or berries.
• A cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a delightful pairing.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

To store your Cranberry Orange Loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a week.

You can also freeze the loaf for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s completely cool before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

Want more easy and nutritious baking ideas? Check out my recipe for Easy Banana Oatmeal Bars for Healthy Snacking – a perfect companion to your Cranberry Orange Loaf!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	205
Protein	3g
Fat	9g
Carbs	28g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	154mg

Want to learn more about the nutritional benefits of cranberries? Visit the USDA’s FoodData Central for detailed information.

FAQ About Cranberry Orange Loaf

Final Thoughts

Making a Cranberry Orange Loaf is a simple yet rewarding experience. With its bright flavor profile and comforting texture, it is a perfect way to brighten your day. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to treat yourself and your loved ones, this scrumptious loaf will undoubtedly be a favorite. Try baking it today, and enjoy the delightful aroma and flavors that will fill your kitchen!