Orange Cranberry Bread Recipe

There's nothing better than the warm, citrusy aroma of Orange Cranberry Bread filling your kitchen on a chilly day. This moist, flavorful bread combines the tangy sweetness of orange with the tart pop of cranberries, creating a perfect balance that's both refreshing and comforting.

this Recipes

I discovered this recipe during the holidays when I was looking for something unique to gift my neighbors. The combination of bright citrus and ruby-red cranberries felt festive and vibrant, and the bread was such a hit that I’ve been baking it year-round ever since. Let’s dive into why this bread deserves a spot in your kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Orange Cranberry Bread

Get ready to embrace a new favorite treat! This Orange Cranberry Bread is as versatile as it is delicious.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, the straightforward steps ensure success every time. No fancy equipment or techniques are required—just mix, bake, and enjoy.

This bread is also the perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness of fresh orange juice and zest pairs beautifully with the natural tartness of cranberries, creating a harmony that’s both rich and refreshing.

It’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Serve it as a snack, enjoy it with your morning coffee, or even dress it up with a glaze for a more indulgent dessert.

Finally, it stores wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep or gifting. The flavors deepen as it sits, so it tastes just as amazing on day three as it does fresh out of the oven.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Orange Cranberry Bread lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Fresh cranberries are a must for this recipe. Their tartness adds a wonderful contrast to the sweet bread. If fresh cranberries aren’t in season, frozen ones work just as well—just toss them in without thawing.

Orange juice and zest bring brightness to the bread. Opt for freshly squeezed juice if possible; the vibrant, natural flavor makes a noticeable difference. The zest enhances the citrus aroma, so don’t skip it!

Butter is the key to a moist, tender crumb. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing. If you prefer, you can substitute with oil, but the buttery flavor truly elevates this bread.

All-purpose flour provides the perfect base. For a slightly nutty taste, you can replace a portion with whole wheat flour, though this may alter the texture slightly.

You’ll also need a loaf pan and parchment paper to ensure easy removal. A zester or microplane is handy for getting those fine orange zest curls.

How To Make This Orange Cranberry Bread

Baking this Orange Cranberry Bread is a breeze, and the results are well worth the minimal effort. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing your loaf pan. Line it with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang for easy lifting, and lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.

In a large bowl, cream together your room-temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender crumb, as it aerates the batter. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Next, mix in the orange juice and zest. The mixture may look slightly curdled at this stage, but don’t worry—it will come together once the dry ingredients are added.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so keep a gentle hand.

Fold in the cranberries using a spatula. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter to ensure every slice has a pop of tartness. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Options

This bread stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or gifting. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze the bread. Wrap it in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight before serving.

To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a low oven. This enhances the flavors and gives it that fresh-baked feel.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.

For a nutty twist, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans along with the cranberries. The crunch adds a delightful texture.

If you prefer a sweeter bread, drizzle a simple glaze over the top. Mix powdered sugar with a little orange juice and drizzle it over the cooled loaf for a bakery-style finish.

For a healthier option, replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of some of the butter to cut down on fat while maintaining moisture.

Love dried fruit? Swap out the cranberries for dried cherries or raisins. They’ll add a chewier texture and concentrated sweetness.

Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor profile. These work especially well during the fall and winter months.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make it your own, this Orange Cranberry Bread is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy!

Print