There’s something truly special about the first bite of freshly baked bread wafting with citrusy sweetness. As the sun begins to rise and fill my kitchen with warmth, I find myself craving a slice of this delightful Cranberry Orange Bread. It effortlessly marries the tangy zing of leftover cranberry sauce with the vibrant essence of fresh oranges, creating a comforting loaf that dances on the palate.
After a flurry of holiday feasting, I often find myself with some cranberry sauce lurking in the fridge, and this quick bread recipe transforms it into a delicious treat that is perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. In just over an hour, you’ll have a soft and fluffy loaf that not only delights the senses but also brings a touch of joy to your everyday baking.
Join me as we delve into this easy recipe that’s bursting with flavor, making it an irresistible choice for anyone tired of the same old routine. Get ready to fill your home with the enticing aroma of baked goods and enjoy the little moments that come from a slice of homemade love!
Why is Cranberry Orange Bread so delightful?
Irresistible aroma: The moment it bakes, your kitchen fills with the invigorating scent of citrus, promising a delightful taste.
Quick and easy: In just over an hour, you can enjoy warm, fresh bread — perfect for those busy mornings!
Waste not, want not: Utilize leftover cranberry sauce for a deliciously sustainable twist that minimizes food waste.
Versatile enjoyment: Whether for breakfast or a sweet treat, this bread is versatile enough to suit any time of day.
Bright flavors: The combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges creates a refreshing burst that awakens the taste buds.
Perfect for sharing: This comforting loaf is ideal for gatherings and will surely impress friends and family!
Cranberry Orange Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; whisk with baking soda and salt for even distribution.
• Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread rise.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (softened) – Adds richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for best results.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread and contributes to a tender crumb.
• Eggs – Provide moisture and structural support; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
• Vanilla extract – Infuses aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
• Leftover cranberry sauce – The star ingredient that brings tartness; if unavailable, use fresh cranberries mixed with sugar and extra orange zest.
• Fresh orange juice – Adds moisture and a burst of vibrant flavor.
• Fresh orange zest – Locks in bright flavor; always use fresh for optimal aroma.
Optional Toppings
• Powdered sugar – For a sweeter finish; mix with orange juice and drizzle over the cooled bread for a delicious glaze.
• Chopped walnuts or pecans – Add for a delightful crunch; substitute for extra texture in the bread.
• Cinnamon – A dash adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile; perfect for cozy mornings.
Embrace the charm of Cranberry Orange Bread and let it elevate your breakfast experience!
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This ensures even baking and helps the bread easily release afterward.
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Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This step is crucial to evenly distribute the leavening agent and enhance the bread’s texture.
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Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes, creating a delightful base for your bread.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract for an aromatic boost that complements the other flavors perfectly.
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Mix the leftover cranberry sauce, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl. The combination of these ingredients will create a vibrant and tangy blend that defines your bread.
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Alternate adding the dry mixture and the cranberry-orange mix to the creamed butter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread tough.
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring an even surface for consistent baking.
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Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your bread—I often set a timer for 50 minutes to check!
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Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the bread to set and makes slicing easier.
Optional: Serve with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of orange glaze for a sweet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Bread
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Soften Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature when creaming; cold butter can lead to a dense and heavy loaf.
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Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to the wet; overmixing will make your quick bread tough and chewy rather than soft.
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Use Fresh Zest: Always opt for fresh orange zest instead of store-bought. It provides a more vibrant flavor that can really elevate your Cranberry Orange Bread.
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Oven Check: Verify your oven temperature with a thermometer; an oven that runs too cool can cause the bread to sink in the middle.
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Cool Time Matters: Allow cooling in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring, as this helps maintain the bread’s structure and makes slicing easier.
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Bread?
Indulging in the delightful flavors of this quick bread is just the beginning of your culinary adventure!
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Creamy Cottage Cheese: A dollop of creamy cottage cheese adds a rich, tangy contrast that enhances the sweet and tart flavors of the bread.
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Honey-Drizzled Yogurt: Pairing with honey yogurt creates a luscious, sweet complement, perfect for an invigorating breakfast or afternoon snack.
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Nutty Granola: Serve alongside a crunchy granola for extra texture; the nutty almonds and oats balance beautifully with the citrus notes.
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Cinnamon Spiced Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a hint of cinnamon offers a light, zesty counterpart, brightening up your meal perfectly.
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Herbal Tea: Sip on a comforting herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, to round out your experience, providing a soothing accompaniment to your sweet bread.
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Orange Mimosa: For a festive touch, pair with a classic orange mimosa. The bubbly citrus drink enhances the refreshing experience, making it perfect for brunch.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Why not add a touch of indulgence? A light drizzle of chocolate over your slices brings out the sweetness and makes for a decadent treat.
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Butter or Spread: Enjoy your bread warm, slathered with a bit of butter or a simple orange marmalade for a truly delightful breakfast twist.
Cranberry Orange Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful variations!
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Nutty Delight: Substitute chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness, enhancing both texture and flavor.
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Cinnamon Twist: Add a dash of ground cinnamon to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that complements the fruit beautifully.
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Glazed Finish: Mix powdered sugar with fresh orange juice to drizzle over the cooled bread; it adds a sweet, zesty topping that elevates each slice.
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Berry Blend: Incorporate a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries alongside the cranberries for an extra fruity explosion.
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Citrus Medley: Swap in lemon juice and zest instead of orange for a tangy spin that’s equally refreshing and bright.
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Almond Flour Boost: For a gluten-free option, use a blend of almond flour and a gluten-free all-purpose mix; it adds moisture and a nutty taste.
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Chili Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the batter for a surprising kick that beautifully balances the sweetness.
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Chocolate Addition: Fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent, sweet contrast to the tartness.
Embrace these variations and craft a loaf that perfectly suits your taste and mood!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Orange Bread options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance—just whisk together the dry ingredients and mix the wet ingredients separately. Combine them when you’re ready to bake, keeping everything fresh and flavorful. For an even more convenient option, you can bake the bread ahead of time, let it cool completely, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days at room temperature, or freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and slice or warm it in the oven for a delightful, fresh-from-the-oven experience that’s just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Bread
Room Temperature: Store your cranberry orange bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate it wrapped tightly for up to a week; be aware that refrigeration may slightly affect the texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bread in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or toast in a toaster until warmed through.
Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberry sauce should I use?
Absolutely! You can use leftover cranberry sauce for this recipe, as it provides the perfect tartness. If you don’t have any, fresh cranberries mixed with sugar and a bit of extra orange zest can make a lovely substitute.
How should I store leftover cranberry orange bread?
I recommend wrapping your cranberry orange bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil. At room temperature, it will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you prefer to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just note that refrigeration might slightly alter its texture.
Can I freeze cranberry orange bread?
Yes, you can freeze your cranberry orange bread for up to 3 months! To do this, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply allow it to thaw at room temperature, and it will be as good as new!
What if my cranberry orange bread doesn’t rise properly?
Oh, that can be a bummer! If your bread doesn’t rise, it could be due to a few reasons. Ensure your baking soda is fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the bread’s rise. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can create a dense loaf. Always start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Is cranberry orange bread suitable for special diets?
The great news is that this cranberry orange bread is vegetarian-friendly! However, if you or your loved ones have specific allergies, consider substituting allergens. For instance, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. Always double-check the labels of packaged ingredients to be safe.
Can I add extra ingredients like nuts or spices?
Very! I often add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. You might also sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon for warmth. Just mix them in when you combine your cranberry-orange mixture, and you’ll have a lovely variation of the standard recipe!
Deliciously Easy Cranberry Orange Bread to Brighten Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix the leftover cranberry sauce, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl.
- Alternate adding the dry mixture and the cranberry-orange mix to the creamed butter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.