Indulge in the delightful blend of tart cranberries and zesty oranges with this easy-to-follow Cranberry Orange Bread recipe.
Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast treat or a sweet afternoon snack, this recipe promises a burst of flavor in every bite.
Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this irresistible bread that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt H2: Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (coarsely chopped)
- Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
Instructions for Making Cranberry Orange Bread
Step 1:
Preparing the Oven and Pan Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2:
Mixing the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 3:
Combining the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the orange juice, melted butter, eggs, and orange zest until smooth and creamy.
Step 4:
Incorporating the Cranberries and Nuts Gently fold the chopped cranberries and nuts into the wet mixture until evenly distributed.
Step 5:
Mixing the Batter Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Be careful not to overmix, as it can result in a dense loaf.
Step 6:
Baking the Bread Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serving and Storing Cranberry Orange Bread
Serving Suggestions
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve the bread warm or at room temperature.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
You can also freeze the bread for longer storage, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Conclusion:
With its vibrant flavors and moist texture, Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet ending to a meal, this bread is sure to satisfy your cravings for something tangy and sweet.
Give this recipe a try and let its irresistible aroma fill your kitchen with warmth and joy.
Unique FAQs:
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen ones?
While fresh or frozen cranberries are recommended for their tartness and juiciness, you can certainly use dried cranberries as a substitute.
Just be sure to soak them in warm water for a few minutes before chopping and incorporating them into the batter.
Can I replace orange juice with store-bought orange juice?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is preferred for its bright flavor, but store-bought orange juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.
Look for 100% pure orange juice without any added sugar or preservatives for the best results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the regular all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
Just ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
How can I prevent the cranberries from sinking to the bottom of the bread?
Coating the chopped cranberries in a light dusting of flour before folding them into the batter can help prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
This will help distribute them evenly throughout the bread for a more uniform texture.
Can I omit the nuts from the recipe?
Absolutely! The nuts are optional and can be omitted if you prefer a nut-free version of the Cranberry Orange Bread.
Feel free to customize the recipe according to your taste preferences and dietary needs.