Name: Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups (195g) all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter, room temperature; 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil; 1 cup (207g) sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh orange juice (about 1 orange); 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 6 tablespoons (90ml) whole milk; 1 1/2 cups (150g) fresh cranberries; 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice (about 1 orange); 3 tablespoons (22g) powdered sugar; 1 cup (115g) powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice; 1-2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

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If you’re searching for a bright, zesty treat with just the right balance of tart and sweet, this Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine tender, buttery crumb infused with the invigorating aroma of fresh orange zest and juice, studded generously with vibrant cranberries that burst with every bite. This loaf isn’t just dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that’s perfect for any time of day, from breakfast to afternoon tea or a delightful snack to brighten your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a metal mixing bowl filled with a soft, light yellow batter that looks smooth and fluffy. A white flat paddle attachment from a stand mixer is resting inside the bowl, partially covered with the batter. The batter has a creamy texture with small peaks and folds, sitting evenly in the bottom half of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in the Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe plays a vital role, combining to create a moist texture and a lively flavor profile. Simple pantry staples and fresh additions come together to ensure every slice is bursting with personality and perfect balance.

All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups / 195g): The foundation that creates the tender crumb of your loaf.
Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Helps the loaf rise beautifully and stay light.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet and citrus flavors for a richer taste.
Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons / 84g, room temperature): Adds a luxurious richness and moistness to the loaf.
Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons / 30ml): Contributes to the tender crumb and keeps the loaf moist longer.
Sugar (1 cup / 207g): Sweetens and balances the natural tartness of the cranberries and orange.
Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add structure to your loaf.
Fresh orange juice (1/4 cup / 60ml plus extra): Infuses the loaf with vibrant citrus flavor and moisture.
Fresh orange zest (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the orange aroma for that extra pop of freshness.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Deepens the flavor with its warm, sweet notes.
Whole milk (6 tablespoons / 90ml): Adds creaminess and softens the crumb.
Fresh cranberries (1 1/2 cups / 150g): The star ingredient, offering bursts of tangy juiciness throughout the loaf.
Powdered sugar (3 tablespoons and 1 cup): Used for the orange syrup and the luscious glaze on top.
Heavy whipping cream (1-2 tablespoons): Makes the glaze luxuriously smooth and silky.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Pan and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure your cake releases easily after baking. Next, combine your flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl – these dry ingredients create the perfect base for your loaf’s texture.

Step 2: Creaming Butter, Oil, and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, vegetable oil, and sugar together on medium-high speed. This step is crucial for a light, fluffy texture—about 4 to 6 minutes until the mixture looks pale and aerated. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl to keep everything evenly mixed.

Step 3: Adding Eggs and Citrus

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is mostly incorporated before adding the next. Follow this with fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. These ingredients give the Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe its signature bright, tangy personality and fragrance.

Step 4: Incorporating Dry Ingredients and Milk

Alternate adding the dry mixture and milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined at each addition to keep your loaf tender. Overmixing can make the crumb tough, so gentle is key here.

Step 5: Folding in the Cranberries and Baking

Gently fold in the fresh cranberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed without breaking them up too much. Pour your luscious batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven for 40 to 50 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. If the top browns too fast, tent with foil.

Step 6: Cooling and Soaking with Orange Syrup

Once out of the oven, let the loaf cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Mix orange juice with powdered sugar to create a simple syrup, then pour it over the still-warm loaf to soak in that signature citrus sweetness.

Step 7: Glazing the Loaf

After the loaf has cooled completely, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and a splash of heavy cream for a luscious glaze. Spread it generously across the top to finish your Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe with a beautiful, shiny coat that adds both sweetness and visual appeal.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe

A rectangular brown cake with a rough, textured surface is covered with a thick layer of white icing that drips down the sides unevenly. On top, there is a small pile of shiny red and dark purple cranberries mixed with thin, curly strips of bright orange zest arranged in a loose cluster. The cake sits on a white plate with small holes around the edge, which is placed on a white marbled surface with scattered cranberries and thin orange zest curls around it. In the background, there is a clear bowl with more cranberries and some blurred orange wedges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten up your loaf slices with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or freshly grated orange zest over the glaze for a pop of color and extra zing. For a festive touch, try adding a few whole cranberries or a sprig of rosemary on the plate.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee, making it perfect for a cozy brunch or afternoon snack. For a more indulgent experience, serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese to complement the citrusy sweetness of the loaf.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe into bite-sized treats by slicing into cubes and serving with cream cheese frosting as an hors d’oeuvre at your next gathering. You can also toast slices lightly and spread with butter or orange marmalade for an exciting breakfast twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Cranberry Orange Loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy whenever a quick sweet snack calls your name.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the loaf whole or in individual slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil or place in a freezer-safe bag to protect against freezer burn. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To revive your loaf after freezing, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to bring back that freshly baked magic. The glaze may soften, but the flavor will still shine beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen cranberries work well and are a convenient alternative, but be sure to do a light toss in flour before folding them into the batter to prevent sinking.

Is it possible to make this loaf gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, keeping the same measurements. Just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free too.

Can I substitute the orange juice with another citrus?

Definitely! Lemon or grapefruit juice can be fun alternatives, but expect a slightly different flavor. Orange gives the best balance to the tart cranberries.

How long will this loaf keep fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe stays fresh for about 3 days. For longer, freezing is the way to go.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans add a wonderful crunch that pairs well with cranberries and orange. Stir them in during the final fold before baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so heartwarming about the bright flavors and tender crumb of the Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this loaf brings a touch of sunshine to any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how a few simple ingredients can create such a memorable, joyful bite.