Amazing Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

There is something truly magical about warm, tender slices of Amazing Cranberry Orange Bread fresh from the oven. This delightful loaf combines the bright, zesty aroma of orange with the sweet-tart burst of cranberries in a soft, moist crumb that feels like a hug in bread form. Perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon treats, or even a charming addition to your holiday spread, this bread is an absolute winner that everyone will adore. Once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it around your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking your own slice of heaven. Each item in this recipe plays a crucial role—from the flour that gives structure to the cranberries and orange that provide vibrant color and irresistible flavor. Let’s break down these simple essentials that make the Amazing Cranberry Orange Bread so special.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft and tender crumb, supporting all the flavors perfectly.
• 3/4 cup sugar: Adds just the right level of sweetness without overpowering the cranberries’ natural tartness.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise beautifully to that perfect fluffy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Balances the acidity of the orange juice and cranberries, ensuring tender bread.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, preventing the bread from tasting flat.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Introduces a subtle warm spice that complements the fruit notes wonderfully.
• 2 large eggs, slightly beaten: Provide richness and structure while keeping the bread moist.
• 8 ounces canned whole cranberries in sauce: The star ingredient, offering bursts of tart sweetness and moisture.
• 1 large orange, zested and juiced: Infuses the bread with bright citrus flavor and a lovely aroma.
• 2 tablespoons applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and moisture, plus a bit of softness.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a delicate nutty aroma that complements the fruit beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist without weighing it down.

How to Make Amazing Cranberry Orange Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, generously grease or spray a loaf pan—you don’t want your beautiful bread sticking when it’s ready, so take this little pre-step seriously for the best results.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. These dry ingredients blend to form a balanced base that will carry all the zesty and fruity explosions to come.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the slightly beaten eggs, canned cranberries with their sauce, freshly zested and juiced orange, applesauce, almond extract, and oil. This wet mixture is where the magic begins, introducing moisture and vibrant flavor into the loaf.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir just until everything is incorporated. Resist the urge to overmix here; a few lumps are totally fine and will keep the bread light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The house will fill with an amazing aroma that will have you counting down the minutes!

Step 6: Optional Muffin Variation

If you prefer individual portions, pour the batter into regular muffin tins, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake muffins for 20 to 23 minutes. They’re perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or lunchbox treats.

How to Serve Amazing Cranberry Orange Bread

Garnishes

To elevate each slice, try topping with a smear of softened butter or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of fresh cranberries and orange slices on the side also make your presentation simply stunning.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with simple spreads such as cream cheese or mascarpone, making it great for brunch. It also complements hot beverages like coffee, tea, or even a spiced cider, creating a cozy and complete snack experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice and toast the bread lightly before serving for a crisper bite and enhanced flavor. For a fanciful twist, turn leftover slices into French toast or use cubes to add color and flavor to a bread pudding. Your guests will be amazed at the versatility of this delightful loaf.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Amazing Cranberry Orange Bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store it at room temperature for up to three days. To keep the bread moist, place it in an airtight container or a resealable bag.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this bread later, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy that fresh-baked flavor whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover bread back to life, thaw at room temperature, then warm slices in a toaster or oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 10 minutes. This little step revives the bread’s softness and brightens the citrus aroma, making each bite taste freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned?

Absolutely! If using fresh cranberries, you might want to add a bit more sugar since fresh berries are tarter. Also, consider cooking them slightly or adding a bit of cranberry sauce for softness and moisture.

What if I don’t have applesauce?

You can substitute applesauce with an equal amount of mashed banana or yogurt. Both options help keep the bread moist and add a slight hint of sweetness without changing the flavor profile drastically.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure it includes xanthan gum or similar binding agents for the best texture.

Is the almond extract necessary?

While optional, almond extract adds a lovely complementary aroma that enhances the cranberry and orange flavors. If you don’t have it on hand, vanilla extract can be a good alternative.

How can I make the crust softer?

For a softer crust, wrap the bread in foil during the last 10 minutes of baking or brush the top with melted butter as soon as it comes out of the oven.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something about the joy of baking and sharing the Amazing Cranberry Orange Bread that warms both the kitchen and the heart. Its vibrant flavors, moist crumb, and lovely texture make it an absolute staple you’ll want to bake again and again. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite breads to make and share with loved ones.

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