If you’re searching for a delightful treat that perfectly balances tart cranberries and bright, zesty oranges, look no further than this Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe. It’s a cozy, sweet bread bursting with fresh flavors that make each bite a little celebration of the season. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday brunch, a comforting afternoon snack, or just because you love a good homemade bread, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your favorites to bake and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds a yellow batter with a thick texture. On top of the batter, there is a pile of bright red, whole and halved cranberries, some with glossy surfaces. A white spatula is partially visible, resting inside the bowl with traces of batter on it. The sides of the bowl have some batter streaks showing use. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create moist, flavorful bread with delightful bursts of citrus and cranberry. Each element plays a crucial role: the flour builds the structure, sugar adds sweetness, and fresh orange juice and zest introduce vibrant flavor and moisture.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the bread’s soft, tender crumb.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise and keeps it light.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic orange juice to aid fluffiness.
1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds a rich, tender texture and subtle creaminess.
1 tablespoon orange zest: Brings a bright, fresh citrus aroma that’s essential to this bread.
3/4 cup orange juice: Infuses the batter with juicy sweetness and moisture.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
1 cup cranberries (chopped, fresh or frozen): The star of the show with their lovely tartness and juicy bursts.
1 cup powdered sugar: Needed for the smooth, sweet orange glaze topping.
1 1/2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze): Adds an extra citrus punch to the glaze for that perfect finish.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures that your bread will release easily after baking, preventing any frustrating sticking while your bread successfully rises and browns evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. These dry ingredients create the base for flavor and texture, and combining them well helps the bread bake evenly throughout.

Step 3: Add Butter and Blend to Crumble

Cut the softened butter into the dry mixture and mix until it achieves a crumbly texture. This step is essential for incorporating fat into the flour, which helps create that wonderful tender crumb you want in quick bread.

Step 4: Stir in Orange Zest, Juice, and Egg

Next, add the fresh orange zest, orange juice, and egg to the mixture. Stir everything together until just combined; this liquid component brings moisture and flavor, while the egg acts as a binder giving the bread structure and lift.

Step 5: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter without breaking them up too much. Their tart pops will contrast wonderfully against the sweet, citrusy bread.

Step 6: Bake Your Bread

Pour the thick batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs attached. The aroma wafting through your kitchen at this stage is simply irresistible!

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. While you wait, mix together the powdered sugar and 1 1/2 tablespoons of orange juice to make a silky glaze. Once the bread is fully cooled, pour the glaze over the top for a sweet, shiny finish that enhances both taste and presentation.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

The image shows a loaf of cranberry bread on a white rectangular plate placed on a white marbled surface. The bread has a golden brown crust with a cracked top drizzled with white icing. Two slices are cut and laid in front of the loaf, revealing a soft crumb inside filled with numerous bright red cranberries evenly spread throughout. The texture of the bread looks moist and slightly dense. A serrated knife is placed to the left side of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a charming touch, sprinkle a few fresh cranberries or extra orange zest on top of the glaze just before it sets. This adds visual appeal and a little extra zing that tells everyone this bread is packed with flavor.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. For a heartier snack, serve slices alongside cream cheese or a mild butter spread, which complements the citrus and tart cranberries perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread into smaller squares and serving it on a beautiful platter for brunch, garnished with fresh herbs like a sprig of rosemary or mint for a festive twist. You could also toast slices lightly and top with ricotta and honey for a gourmet snack everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled and glazed, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay fresh and moist for up to three days, making it perfect to prepare ahead of time for any occasion.

Freezing

You can freeze this bread without the glaze for up to three months. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh glaze before serving to maintain that fresh-baked charm.

Reheating

To enjoy the bread warm, reheat slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or toast them lightly in a toaster oven. This revives the bread’s softness and fresh flavors, making every bite as comforting as the first.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries can be used directly without thawing. Just chop them while frozen to keep them from bleeding too much color into the batter.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking, but expect a slightly different texture. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum for best results.

Can I use lemon instead of orange?

While lemon will provide a lovely citrus flavor, it will change the bread’s characteristic big, bright orange taste. If you enjoy lemon, try substituting equal parts zest and juice for an interesting twist.

How thick should the glaze be?

The glaze should be pourable but thick enough to coat the top. If it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar; if too thick, add a drop more orange juice until you get the perfect consistency.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans add a delicious crunch that complements the softness of the bread and tart cranberries. Just fold them in along with the cranberries.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe is a true gem in the world of quick breads. It’s easy to make, bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, and incredible enough to be a centerpiece for gatherings or a special treat anytime. I can’t encourage you enough to try baking this—there’s nothing like the joy of slicing into a warm loaf and savoring the perfect harmony of cranberries and orange. Your kitchen will thank you for it!