Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful combination of tangy cranberries and zesty orange, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is perfect for any occasion. This quick bread is moist, flavorful, and topped with a sweet and citrusy glaze that adds an extra layer of indulgence. Whether you are enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
1 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, divided
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons grated orange zest
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen, thawed and rinsed
For the Orange Syrup:
1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1/3 cup sugar
For the Orange Glaze:
1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
2 to 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, tapping out any excess flour.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside one tablespoon of the flour mixture.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until well combined.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Prepare Cranberries: Toss the cranberries with the reserved tablespoon of flour to coat. Gently fold them into the batter.
Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Orange Syrup: While the bread is cooling, combine the orange juice and sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved, then continue to cook for an additional 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Apply the Syrup: Using a toothpick, poke holes in the top and sides of the warm loaf. Brush the loaf with the orange syrup, allowing it to soak in. Repeat until all the syrup is used. Let the bread cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and orange juice until smooth and pourable. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more orange juice.
Glaze the Bread: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf, allowing it to drip down the sides. Let the glaze harden before slicing and serving.
Variations and Substitutions
Nut Additions: Add a handful of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor. The nuts complement the cranberries and orange zest, adding a pleasant crunch to each bite.
Spice It Up: Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom into the batter for a spiced version of this bread. A teaspoon of cinnamon or a mix of these spices can add a warm and cozy flavor.
Citrus Twists: Experiment with different citrus fruits. Substitute the orange zest and juice with lemon or lime for a different citrus profile. Each variant will offer a unique twist to the bread’s flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance. Ensure the baking powder is also gluten-free.
Low-Sugar Version: Reduce the amount of sugar in the bread and syrup by half for a less sweet version. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit for a lower-calorie option.
Berry Variations: While cranberries are traditional, you can use other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of your favorite berries. Each berry brings its own unique flavor and color to the bread.
Yogurt Alternatives: If you don’t have plain whole-milk yogurt, you can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or buttermilk. These substitutes will still provide the necessary moisture and tanginess to the bread.
Vegan Adaptation: For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based yogurt and oil. Ensure the sugar is vegan-friendly.
Festive Touches: For a holiday-themed bread, add dried fruits like raisins, currants, or chopped dried apricots. These additions make the bread even more festive and flavorful.
Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Bread
Measure Accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients to ensure the right proportions.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid a dense bread.
Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: Both fresh and frozen cranberries work well. If using frozen, make sure they are thawed and well-drained.
Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. The bread can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Bread is a versatile and delicious treat that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you prefer it nutty, spiced, or with a different citrus twist, this bread is sure to delight. Its moist crumb and vibrant flavors make it a perfect addition to any meal or a delightful standalone snack. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a homemade loaf that’s bursting with flavor and topped with a delightful glaze.