Introduction
Cranberry orange bread is a timeless baked treat that brings together bright citrus aroma and the gentle tartness of cranberries in one soft and moist loaf. The fragrance that fills the kitchen while it bakes instantly creates a sense of warmth and comfort. Every slice feels festive yet familiar, making it perfect for everyday enjoyment.
The combination of orange zest and cranberries creates a balance that never feels too sweet or too sharp. Natural citrus oils enhance the flavor of the bread while cranberries add bursts of freshness in every bite. This recipe focuses on texture as much as taste, resulting in a loaf that stays tender for days.
Cranberry orange bread works beautifully for breakfast, afternoon tea, or light dessert moments. It pairs well with simple spreads and warm drinks while also standing strong on its own. This recipe is designed to be approachable, reliable, and rewarding for home bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients Needed
Below is the complete ingredients list presented in a proper column format. Calorie values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient quality and portion size.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| All purpose flour | 2 cups | 910 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | 774 |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons | 10 |
| Baking soda | 0.5 teaspoon | 0 |
| Salt | 0.5 teaspoon | 0 |
| Fresh orange zest | 1 tablespoon | 6 |
| Fresh orange juice | 0.75 cup | 84 |
| Vegetable oil | 0.5 cup | 960 |
| Eggs | 2 large | 140 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
| Fresh cranberries chopped | 1.5 cups | 75 |
| Milk | 0.25 cup | 38 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius and prepare a loaf pan by greasing it lightly with oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, add all purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest. Mix gently until evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Pour the wet mixture slowly into the dry ingredients. Stir gently using a spatula until just combined. Avoid over mixing to keep the bread soft.
- Fold in chopped fresh cranberries evenly throughout the batter.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top gently.
- Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for fifty to fifty five minutes until the top turns golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for ten minutes.
- Carefully remove the loaf from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Slice gently using a sharp knife and serve once fully cooled for best texture.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
• Use dried cranberries soaked in orange juice if fresh cranberries are unavailable.
• Add chopped walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and texture.
• Replace part of the sugar with honey for a deeper natural sweetness.
• Add a light orange glaze on top using powdered sugar and orange juice for a bakery style finish.
• Use yogurt instead of milk for a slightly denser and richer crumb.
• Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for a lightly crisp surface.
Nutritional Information
Cranberry orange bread offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and small amounts of protein. Below is the approximate nutritional breakdown per slice based on standard serving size.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Fat | 14 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugar | 20 grams |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
This bread provides quick energy from natural sugars while cranberries contribute antioxidants and vitamin C. The citrus element also supports freshness and flavor without heaviness.
Serving Suggestions
Cranberry orange bread tastes best when served slightly warm or at room temperature. A light spread of butter or cream cheese enhances the citrus notes and adds richness. For breakfast, serve with fresh fruit and a cup of tea or coffee.
This bread also works well as a dessert option when paired with whipped cream or vanilla yogurt. During gatherings, slice it thin and arrange on a platter for easy serving. Leftover slices can be toasted lightly to refresh texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Cranberry orange bread brings together brightness, comfort, and homemade charm in every slice. The balance of sweet citrus and tart cranberries creates a flavor profile that feels both refreshing and satisfying. Its soft texture and inviting aroma make it a favorite for all seasons.
Baking this bread at home allows full control over ingredients and flavor depth. Once added to your baking routine, it becomes a reliable recipe that fits breakfast tables, snack times, and special occasions with equal ease.
