The Cranberry Orange Pecan Loaf is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of the festive season. This loaf combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweet, citrusy zest of oranges and the nutty crunch of pecans, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It's an ideal recipe for holiday gatherings, cozy afternoon teas, or as a special treat for any day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- Zest of 1 orange
- ¾ cup orange juice
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add Fruits and Nuts: Mix in cranberries, pecans, and orange zest.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together orange juice, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Mix Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions: This loaf is delightful when served warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a light spread of cream cheese or butter. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting snack.
Tips:
- If using dried cranberries, you can soak them in orange juice beforehand to plump them up.
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle the top of the loaf with coarse sugar before baking for a crunchy crust.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 1 hour Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information: This loaf is a source of carbohydrates and contains healthy fats from the pecans. Cranberries provide antioxidants, making this a relatively healthy treat when enjoyed in moderation.
Conclusion: The Cranberry Orange Pecan Loaf is a delightful and easy-to-make recipe that brings a burst of flavors. Its combination of tart, sweet, and nutty elements makes it a perfect treat for the holiday season or any time you crave a fruity, nutty baked good.
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