Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
This cranberry bread recipe is packed with fresh cranberries and topped with a zesty orange glaze. It’s a perfect easy treat for the holiday season!
I love keeping this cranberry orange bread around the house during the holidays. Packed with tart, juicy cranberries, this loaf is perfectly moist and tender. Orange juice and zest give it a lovely bright flavor, and a simple orange glaze takes it over the top.
This cranberry orange bread is sweet enough to pass as dessert, but it’s not so sweet that you can’t enjoy it with an afternoon coffee or for breakfast with holiday guests.
Easy to make with 10 basic ingredients, this recipe will be on repeat in my kitchen this season. I hope it will be in yours too!
Cranberry Orange Bread Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cranberry bread recipe:
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| Cranberries | Fresh or frozen (no need to thaw frozen cranberries) |
| Orange juice and zest | Approximately 3 oranges for the loaf and glaze; use freshly squeezed juice |
| All-purpose flour | Spoon and level to avoid packing too much |
| Vegetable oil and milk | Any type of milk (regular, almond, oat) |
| Cane sugar | For sweetness |
| Baking powder and eggs | To help the loaf rise |
| Vanilla extract | For warm depth of flavor |
| Sea salt | To enhance flavors |
Making the glaze? Don’t forget to add powdered sugar to your grocery list!
Cranberry Bread Variations
- Make cranberry nut bread: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Use dried cranberries: Substitute with 1/2 cup dried cranberries.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
You can find the complete recipe with measurements at the bottom. Here’s a quick overview:
- Prepare the batter: Start by combining orange zest and sugar. Rub together to release fragrant oils, then add remaining wet ingredients.
- Toss cranberries with flour: This helps them stay suspended in the batter.
- Fold cranberries into the batter and pour into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F: for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely and top with orange glaze before serving.
How to Store
This cranberry bread will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Tip: Slice the loaf before freezing for easy thawing later!
More Easy Quick Bread Recipes
If you enjoy this orange cranberry bread, try one of these quick bread recipes next:
FAQs about Cranberry Orange Bread
What makes this cranberry orange bread special?
This recipe blends tart cranberries with a sweet orange glaze, making it a unique and festive addition to any holiday table.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes! This bread stores well, and you can make it a few days in advance or freeze it for later enjoyment.
What ingredients can I substitute?
You can use any type of milk, swap fresh cranberries for dried, or add nuts for extra crunch!