You'll absolutely love diving into a slice of cranberry orange bread! This classic holiday treat blends tart cranberries and bright citrus notes, creating a mouthwatering flavor that'll have you craving more. The tender crumb and slightly crunchy top make it a delight to enjoy any time, whether for a cozy weekend brunch or an afternoon snack. With its festive color and nostalgic aroma, cranberry orange bread is sure to become a family favorite. It's easy to make, too – perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned cooks. Keep reading to discover the full recipe and learn why this bread is a wintertime essential.
Key Takeaways
- Cranberry Orange Bread is a classic holiday treat with a history dating back to the early 20th century in New England.
- The recipe combines tart cranberries and bright citrus notes of orange, creating a delightful flavor profile.
- The bread is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, featuring a tender crumb and slightly crunchy top.
- Cranberry Orange Bread is a versatile and beloved recipe that appeals to a wide range of palates.
- The recipe is relatively simple, making it suitable for novice bakers and experienced cooks alike.
History
The origins of cranberry orange bread can be traced back to the early 20th century, when resourceful homemakers sought to incorporate the tart flavor of cranberries into their baked goods.
Back then, cranberries were a local and seasonal fruit, often foraged from bogs in New England. These clever cooks discovered that pairing the tangy cranberries with the sweet and zesty orange made for a truly delightful bread.
As the recipe spread, bakers began experimenting, adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the cozy, autumnal flavors. Soon, the comforting aroma of cranberry orange bread wafted through kitchens across America, becoming a beloved staple during the holiday season.
Today, this classic quickbread continues to delight with its vibrant color, moist texture, and irresistible blend of tart and sweet.
Whether served for breakfast, as a snack, or for a special occasion, cranberry orange bread remains a timeless treat that brings a touch of nostalgia to every bite.
Recipe
Cranberry Orange Bread is a delicious and festive quick bread that combines the tart flavor of cranberries with the bright citrus notes of orange. This homemade loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
The use of fresh or frozen cranberries and the inclusion of orange zest and juice give this bread a vibrant and flavorful profile. The bread's tender crumb and slightly crunchy top make it a delightful treat any time of year. This cranberry orange bread is perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack with a cup of tea. The combination of tart cranberries and citrusy orange flavors really make this bread stand out. For an extra special treat, try pairing a slice of this bread with a delicious salmon bagel recipe for a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the orange juice and zest.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the chopped cranberries.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
For best results, wrap the cooled loaf in foil or plastic wrap and let it sit overnight before serving to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Cooking Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F and get ready to bake!
In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients like flour, sugar, and spices.
Then, in a medium bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients, including orange juice and eggs.
Fold the wet mixture into the dry until just combined, and gently stir in the fresh, juicy cranberries.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is a crucial step in making your delicious Cranberry Orange Bread. Heating the oven to the right temperature ensures your bread will bake perfectly.
Don't worry, it's super easy! Just turn the knob on your oven to 350 degrees and let it warm up. While you're waiting, you can gather the rest of your ingredients.
Once the oven has reached the right temperature, you'll hear a little beep or see a light indicator to let you know it's ready.
Now, you can pop your bread in and let the baking magic happen. The warm, cozy scent of citrus and cranberries will start to fill your kitchen. Your friends and family will be begging for a slice as soon as they smell it!
Just remember to keep an eye on the time, so your bread doesn't overbake. With the oven preheated, you're one step closer to enjoying a delightful Cranberry Orange Bread.
Step 2. In a Large Bowl, Combine Dry Ingredients
Combining the dry ingredients in a large bowl is the next crucial step. Grab a big ol' mixing bowl and let's get to work!
First, you'll want to add the all-purpose flour. Just scoop it right in – no need to be too careful, we're going for quick and easy here.
Now sprinkle in the baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. These dry ingredients will help your bread rise up nice and tall.
Don't forget the sugar, too – a hearty helping to balance out those tart cranberries.
Finally, zest in some fresh orange peel. The citrusy aroma is going to make your kitchen smell amazing!
Use a whisk to give everything a good stir, making sure there are no dry clumps hiding.
With the dry ingredients all combined, you're one step closer to warm, homemade cranberry orange bread. Keep going, the fun part is just ahead!
Step 3. In a Medium Bowl, Whisk Wet Ingredients
Next, grab a medium-sized bowl and whisk together the wet ingredients.
You'll need to crack open 2 large eggs and add them right in. Grab the electric mixer and give those eggs a good whisk until they're nice and frothy.
Now pour in the buttermilk – this will give the bread a wonderfully moist and tender crumb.
Don't forget the orange zest and juice! The bright citrus flavors will really make the cranberries pop.
Finally, stir in a splash of vanilla extract. The combination of sweet and tangy will have your taste buds dancing!
Whisk everything together until it's well combined. The batter should be smooth and creamy, ready to be added to the dry ingredients.
With the wet and dry parts prepped, you're one step closer to enjoying a slice of that delicious cranberry orange bread.
Just wait until you smell it baking in the oven!
Step 4. Fold Wet Ingredients Into Dry
With the wet ingredients whisked together, it's time to fold them into the dry mixture. Using a rubber spatula, gently scoop and fold the vibrant orange zest, rich sour cream, and bubbly buttermilk into the light and fluffy flour blend.
Be careful not to overmix – you want to preserve all those tiny air pockets that will make your cranberry orange bread beautifully tender.
As you fold, you'll start to see the batter come together into a thick, chunky dough. The bright pops of cranberry dotting the mixture are so appetizing!
Fold just until the last streak of dry ingredients disappears. Now your batter is ready to be poured into the waiting loaf pan.
With a few quick swipes of the spatula, you've got the batter evenly distributed and ready for the oven. Can you already smell that heavenly citrus aroma wafting through the kitchen?
Get ready – your house is about to smell absolutely amazing!
Step 5. Fold in Fresh Cranberries
Plump, ruby-red cranberries await their turn to join the party. With a quick fold of the wrist, gently incorporate these tart little gems into the batter.
Watch as they dot the dough with bursts of color, ready to delight your taste buds. The cool cranberries will provide a delightful contrast to the warm, fragrant bread.
As you fold, be careful not to overmix – you want to preserve those beautiful berries intact. Imagine slicing into the loaf, the cranberries peeking out, inviting you to take a bite.
The sweet orange and tart cranberry flavors will dance on your tongue, creating a flavor symphony. This is the moment you've been waiting for – the cranberries have arrived, and your bread is about to reach new heights of deliciousness.
Enjoy the process, and get ready for the wonderful flavors to come.
Final Thoughts
This scrumptious Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat that's sure to impress. The vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma of this homemade delight will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
The tart cranberries perfectly complement the sweet orange, creating a harmony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Not only is this bread a feast for the senses, but it's also a breeze to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some light mixing, you'll have a fresh, moist loaf straight from the oven.
Serve it up for a cozy weekend brunch, an afternoon snack, or even as a thoughtful gift for your loved ones.
No matter how you enjoy it, this Cranberry Orange Bread is sure to become a new family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Fresh Cranberries for Dried?
You can substitute fresh cranberries for dried in a recipe, but you may need to adjust the amount and cooking time. Fresh cranberries will add more moisture and a tart flavor compared to dried.
How Long Does the Bread Stay Fresh?
The freshness duration of the bread depends on various factors, but generally, it'll stay fresh for 3-5 days when stored at room temperature in an airtight container. If you refrigerate it, it can last up to a week.
Is the Bread Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans?
As a vegetarian or vegan, you'll be pleased to know that this bread is suitable for your dietary needs. It's made without any animal-derived ingredients, making it a delicious and inclusive option for your enjoyment.
Can I Freeze the Baked Bread?
You can definitely freeze the baked bread. Freezing will preserve the bread's freshness and texture, allowing you to enjoy it later. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic or foil before freezing for up to 3 months.
What's the Best Way to Serve the Bread?
You can serve the bread in a variety of ways. Slice it and enjoy it as a snack or alongside your breakfast. You can also toast it and spread some butter or jam on top for a tasty treat.
Rachel is all about nostalgic comfort food with a modern twist. She brings the flavors of classic American diners to Cook if Ya, with her takes on burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Rachel’s love for simple, hearty meals brings a bit of retro flair to the table, reminding us all of the joys of classic diner dishes.
