Cranberry bread with orange glaze is not just a loaf; it’s a festive hug wrapped in a slice. Imagine tearing through that golden crust to reveal the moist, tangy interior, bursting with juicy cranberries and drizzled with a sweet orange glaze that dances on your taste buds. Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cups Every bite is like a celebration, perfect for cozy mornings or holiday gatherings where laughter and good food reign supreme.
Now, let me take you back to my first encounter with this delightful bread. It was during a family holiday brunch, where I nervously attempted to impress my relatives with my baking skills. The moment I pulled the cranberry bread out of the oven, the aroma filled the kitchen and drew everyone in like moths to a flame. The compliments poured in faster than I could slice it! This dish has since become my secret weapon for any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cranberry bread with orange glaze requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor and joy
- Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering
- This recipe is versatile enough to be enjoyed as breakfast, dessert, or even a snack throughout the day
- The delightful combination of tart cranberries and sweet glaze creates an unforgettable flavor experience that will leave everyone wanting more
I still remember when I baked this loaf for my best friend’s birthday. She took one bite and declared it was the best thing she had ever tasted! No Bake Carrot Cake Bites.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Cranberries: Opt for bright, firm cranberries; frozen ones work too but may alter texture slightly.
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All-Purpose Flour: This is your base; ensure it’s fresh for the best rising results.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
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Baking Powder: Essential for making your bread rise beautifully; check expiration date for effectiveness.
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Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it!
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Eggs: Use large eggs to ensure proper moisture content and binding.
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Milk: Whole milk gives richness but feel free to substitute with almond or oat milk if desired.
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Orange Zest and Juice: Freshly grated zest adds vibrant flavor while juice balances sweetness perfectly.
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Powdered Sugar: For the glaze; sifted powdered sugar ensures smooth consistency while mixing.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth to both the bread and glaze—trust me, you want this!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan generously so your beautiful creation doesn’t stick like gum on a shoe.
Prepare Your Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, rinse them under cold water and remove any that look sad or shriveled. If using frozen ones, just let them thaw and drain excess liquid.
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well mixed; this helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together eggs, milk, orange juice, vanilla extract, and zest until combined. The mixture should appear homogenous and slightly frothy.
Combine Mixtures: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients gradually while folding gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; we’re aiming for tender bread, not bricks!
Add Cranberries: Gently fold in cranberries until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. You want them in every luscious bite!
Bake! Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top with spatula. Bake in preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown; toothpick inserted should come out clean.
While your cranberry bread cools slightly on a wire rack—this step feels like eternity—let’s whip up that fabulous orange glaze! For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Cheesecake Squares recipe.
Create That Glaze!
In a small bowl, combine sifted powdered sugar with enough orange juice to reach desired drizzle consistency. It should flow off the spoon without being too runny; think thick ribbons of sunshine!
Once your loaf has cooled completely (patience is key!), drizzle that glorious orange glaze generously over the top. Allow it to set before slicing—that way each piece showcases its glistening beauty!
Remember: cranberry bread with orange glaze isn’t just food; it’s an experience—a story shared through flavors that brings people together over warm slices of happiness! Enjoy every bite! Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts.
You Must Know
- Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze is a festive delight that smells like Christmas morning!
- Perfectly balances tart and sweet, making it a crowd favorite
- Whether enjoyed fresh or toasted, this bread elevates any breakfast or snack time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To ensure a harmonious blend of flavors, mix your dry ingredients first, then incorporate wet ones gradually. Cherry Cheesecake Fluff This keeps things light and fluffy, avoiding any overmixing disasters.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or add nuts like walnuts for extra crunch and flavor. Personalizing the recipe makes each loaf unique and memorable!
Storing & Reheating
Store your cranberry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. To reheat, pop slices in the toaster for a warm, crispy treat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This recipe shines with fresh cranberries; dried ones can work but may alter texture
- Always let the glaze cool before drizzling to achieve that perfect shimmer
- For added zest, use orange zest in your batter!
I remember the first time I made cranberry bread; the aroma filled my kitchen, and my neighbors started showing up unannounced! They couldn’t resist the mouthwatering scent wafting through the air.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes! Just rinse them under warm water to thaw before use.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
What can I use if I don’t have orange juice?
Lemon juice can be a tangy substitute; adjust sugar levels accordingly for sweetness. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Lavender Cookies recipe.
Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry bread with orange glaze is a festive delight that perfectly balances tart cranberries and sweet citrus. This moist, flavorful loaf features a golden crust and a luscious orange drizzle, making it an ideal centerpiece for holiday gatherings or cozy breakfasts. Each bite is a celebration of flavors, sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- Rinse fresh cranberries; if using frozen, thaw and drain.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs with milk, orange juice, zest, and vanilla until combined.
- Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in cranberries gently.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before drizzling with the orange glaze made by mixing powdered sugar with enough orange juice for desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
