Zesty Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe: Bursting with Freshness!

Baking a delightful orange cranberry bread fills the kitchen with tantalizing aromas of citrusy warmth and sweet-tart cranberry notes.

This moist orange cranberry bread recipe promises a delectable treat that balances bright zesty flavors with bursts of ruby-red berries.

Each slice offers a perfect harmony of soft, tender crumb and vibrant taste sensations.

The combination of fresh orange zest and tart cranberries creates a stunning flavor profile that delights the palate.

Home bakers will adore how simple ingredients transform into an impressive breakfast or afternoon snack.

Tender crumbs and a golden crust make this bread irresistible for anyone seeking a delicious homemade treat.

Prepare to savor every delightful bite of this crowd-pleasing quick bread.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Calories: 220 kcal

Servings: 7

Everything In Moist Orange Cranberry Bread

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the sturdy structure for a tender, soft bread that holds its shape perfectly.
• Baking Powder: Creates light, airy texture with gentle rising action for a soft crumb.
• Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise and balance the acidity from orange juice and cranberries.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the bread.

• Granulated Sugar, Orange Zest: Infuses bright citrusy notes and sweetness into the bread.
• Unsalted Butter: Delivers rich, smooth flavor and helps create a moist, tender texture.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to the bread's soft, rich consistency.
• Orange Juice: Adds vibrant citrus flavor and helps keep the bread incredibly moist.
• Sour Cream: Provides tangy depth and ensures an extra soft, tender crumb.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out flavor with warm, comforting undertones.

• Fresh Cranberries: Adds tart, juicy pockets of flavor and beautiful color throughout the bread.
• Powdered Sugar, Orange Juice, Orange Zest (Optional Glaze): Creates a glossy, tangy-sweet drizzle that elevates the bread's appearance and taste.

What You’ll Use For Moist Orange Cranberry Bread

• Loaf Pan (9×5-inch): Essential for shaping and baking the bread perfectly.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining wet ingredients and creating a smooth batter.
• Medium Mixing Bowl: Ideal for whisking dry ingredients before combining.
• Whisk: Great for blending ingredients smoothly and eliminating lumps.
• Spatula: Helps fold cranberries gently and smooth batter in the pan.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Zester or Grater: Needed to extract fresh orange zest for maximum flavor.
• Wire Rack: Allows bread to cool evenly and prevents soggy bottom.
• Small Bowl: Useful for preparing the optional orange glaze.
• Toothpick: Helps check bread doneness by testing the center.

Easy Guide To Make Moist Orange Cranberry Bread

• Oven Preparation

Warm up the kitchen by setting the oven to a cozy temperature. Protect your loaf pan with a gentle layer of grease and parchment paper, creating a comfy nest for your bread.

• Dry Ingredient Harmony

Gather your dry ingredients in a bowl, whisking them together until they create a soft, unified blend. Let the mixture rest while you prepare the wet ingredients.

• Wet Ingredient Magic

Combine sugar and orange zest, using your fingertips to release the bright, citrusy essence. Pour in melted butter, eggs, fresh orange juice, creamy dairy, and a splash of vanilla. Whisk until the mixture becomes a smooth, golden-hued symphony.

• Bread Batter Fusion

Gently introduce the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding them together with a light touch. Sprinkle in vibrant cranberries, creating bursts of color and tang throughout the batter.

• Baking Adventure

Transfer the batter to its prepared pan, smoothing the top with care. Let the bread bake until it develops a golden crust and fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. A quick toothpick test will reveal its perfect doneness.

• Zesty Finishing Touch

Whip up a quick glaze by blending powdered sugar with fresh orange juice and zest. Drizzle the bright, sweet coating over the cooled bread, adding a final layer of citrusy excitement.

Tips And Tweaks For Moist Orange Cranberry Bread

• Perfect Baking Secrets: Orange Cranberry Bread
• Moisture Magic: Sour cream is the secret weapon for creating an incredibly tender, moist bread that stays soft for days. Use full-fat sour cream for the best texture and richness.
• Zest Technique: When rubbing orange zest with sugar, press and mix thoroughly to release essential oils, intensifying the citrus flavor throughout the entire loaf.
• Cranberry Coating Trick: Toss fresh or frozen cranberries in a light dusting of flour before folding into the batter to prevent them from sinking and ensure even distribution.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This bread freezes beautifully for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature for the best texture.
• Dietary Adaptations: Easily convert to gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, or make it dairy-free by using coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free yogurt in place of sour cream.

Ways To Serve Moist Orange Cranberry Bread

• Festive Brunch Centerpiece: Slice this vibrant bread and arrange on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh orange slices and sprigs of rosemary for a stunning breakfast presentation.
• Holiday Gift Giving: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper, tie with a festive ribbon, and gift to friends and neighbors during winter celebrations for a homemade touch.
• Tea Time Companion: Pair perfectly with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or a creamy chai latte, creating a delightful afternoon snacking experience that elevates your relaxation moment.
• Dessert Transformation: Transform leftover slices into a decadent bread pudding by cubing the bread, mixing with custard, and baking until golden for a creative dessert twist.

Storing Moist Orange Cranberry Bread And Meal Ideas

• Refrigeration Strategy: Store your orange cranberry bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil inside the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the bread in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and prevent absorbing other refrigerator odors.
• Freezing Technique: Slice the bread before freezing for convenient individual servings. Wrap each slice or the entire loaf in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bread stays delicious for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for best texture.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the bread batter the night before baking. Cover the mixing bowl and refrigerate overnight. This technique allows flavors to develop and simplifies morning baking. Remove the batter from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to reach room temperature.
• Room Temperature Tips: When serving fresh, keep the orange cranberry bread on a cake stand with a loose cover. Room temperature storage works best for 2 days. Ensure the bread remains in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight to maintain its delightful texture and prevent quick staleness.

Tangy Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe

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4.7 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

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Description

Scrumptious orange cranberry bread merges zesty citrus with tart berries in a delightful quick bread. Homemade comfort awaits when you slice into this classic breakfast treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups (180 g/6.3 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped
• 2 cups (480 ml/16.2 fl oz) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (150 g/5.3 oz) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (113 g/4 oz) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• ¾ cup (180 ml/6.1 fl oz) freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120 ml/4.1 fl oz) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp (15 ml/0.5 fl oz) orange zest (from 1 large orange)
• 1 tsp (5 ml/0.2 fl oz) vanilla extract
• 1 tsp (5 ml/0.2 fl oz) baking powder
• ½ tsp (2.5 ml/0.1 fl oz) baking soda
• ½ tsp (2.5 ml/0.1 fl oz) salt
• 1 cup (120 g/4.2 oz) powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2–3 tbsps (30–45 ml/1–1.5 fl oz) orange juice (for glaze)
• ½ tsp (2.5 ml/0.1 fl oz) orange zest (for glaze)

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Butter and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over sides for easy removal.
2. Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined and lump-free.
3. Wet Mixture: Infuse sugar with orange zest, then blend with melted butter, eggs, orange juice, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and fragrant.
4. Batter Assembly: Delicately fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, minimizing stirring. Gently incorporate cranberries, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
5. Baking Process: Pour batter into prepared pan, leveling the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick that should come out clean.
6. Cooling and Finishing: Rest bread in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack using parchment paper. Create an optional glaze by whisking powdered sugar with orange juice and zest until silky.
7. Serving: Once completely cooled, drizzle citrus glaze over the bread, allowing it to flow down the sides. Slice and serve to reveal the moist, vibrant interior.

Notes

• Zest with Care: Gently massage orange zest into sugar to release maximum citrus oils without bruising the delicate zest, enhancing the bread’s aromatic profile.
• Minimal Mixing Matters: Stir dry and wet ingredients just until combined to prevent gluten development, ensuring a tender, soft crumb texture.
• Cranberry Distribution Technique: Lightly coat cranberries in a tablespoon of flour before folding into batter to prevent sinking and create even berry placement throughout the loaf.
• Moisture Preservation Hack: Cover the bread loosely with aluminum foil midway through baking if the top browns too quickly, protecting the surface while allowing complete internal cooking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg