Zesty Cranberry Orange Loaf: A Bright and Flavorful Treat

There’s something special about homemade bread that fills your home with warmth and joy. Add the vibrant flavors of cranberries and orange, and you’ve got a show-stopping loaf perfect for any season. This Zesty Cranberry Orange Loaf is the ultimate combination of tangy cranberries and sweet citrusy orange, drizzled with a luscious orange glaze that takes it to the next level.

Whether you’re serving this as a morning treat, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a holiday dessert, it’s guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make, even for beginner bakers. Let’s dive into how you can create this bright, zesty loaf from scratch.

Ingredients: Everything You’ll Need

Below is a detailed list of ingredients for the bread and glaze:

Component	Ingredient	Quantity
Bread	Granulated sugar	¾ cup (150 grams)
	2% milk	⅓ cup
	Freshly squeezed orange juice	2 tablespoons
	Zest of 1 orange	–
	Canola or vegetable oil	½ cup
	Large eggs	2
	Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
	All-purpose flour	2 cups (260 grams)
	Baking powder	1 teaspoon
	Baking soda	½ teaspoon
	Salt	¼ teaspoon
	Frozen cranberries	2 cups
	All-purpose flour (for coating cranberries)	1 tablespoon
Glaze	Powdered sugar	½ cup
	Freshly squeezed orange juice	1–2 tablespoons
	Zest of 1 orange	–
	Vanilla extract	½ teaspoon

Why You’ll Love This Zesty Cranberry Orange Loaf

This cranberry orange loaf is more than just a quick bread—it’s a delightful explosion of flavors that will brighten your day. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Bursting with Flavor: The tanginess of cranberries paired with the sweet citrusy zing of orange creates the perfect balance.
• Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the oil and milk, this loaf stays soft and delicious for days.
• Eye-Catching Appearance: The pops of red cranberries against the golden-orange bread make it a stunning centerpiece.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can bake this loaf successfully.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, breakfast, or a gift, this loaf is versatile and always a hit.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Zesty Cranberry Orange Loaf

1. Prepare the Cranberries

Cranberries are the star of this loaf, and coating them in flour ensures they’re evenly distributed throughout the bread.

1. In a small bowl, toss the frozen cranberries with 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour.
2. This step prevents the cranberries from sinking to the bottom of the bread while baking.
3. Set the cranberries aside while you prepare the batter.

2. Make the Batter

The batter comes together quickly and is packed with citrusy goodness.

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, milk, orange juice, orange zest, and oil until well combined.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
4. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf.

3. Add the Cranberries

The cranberries add bursts of tangy flavor and visual appeal.

1. Gently fold the floured cranberries into the batter.
2. Ensure they’re evenly distributed without overmixing the batter.

4. Bake the Loaf

Baking this bread fills your kitchen with the heavenly aroma of citrus and cranberries.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
4. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Prepare the Glaze

The orange glaze is what takes this loaf from delicious to extraordinary.

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice (start with 1 tablespoon and add more if needed), orange zest, and vanilla extract.
2. Whisk until the glaze is smooth and pourable.

6. Glaze the Bread

The final touch is a generous drizzle of the glaze.

1. Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top.
2. Allow the glaze to set for several minutes before slicing the loaf.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Orange Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice and zest add a burst of citrus flavor that bottled versions can’t replicate.
• Coat the Cranberries: Don’t skip this step! Coating the cranberries in flour prevents them from sinking to the bottom.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to keep the bread light and tender.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Letting the bread cool ensures the glaze doesn’t melt and stays perfectly drizzled on top.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one slice of cranberry orange loaf (based on 10 slices):

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	240
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	1.5g
Carbohydrates	35g
Sugar	18g
Protein	3g

FAQs About Zesty Cranberry Orange Loaf

1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh cranberries work just as well. There’s no need to thaw them—simply coat them in flour before folding them into the batter.

2. Can I make this loaf ahead of time?

Absolutely. This loaf stays moist for 2–3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but it may result in a denser loaf. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for the best results.

4. What other glazes can I use?

A simple vanilla glaze or a cream cheese glaze would pair beautifully with this loaf.

5. How do I prevent my loaf from sticking to the pan?

Grease your loaf pan thoroughly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

6. Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition to this loaf. Add about ½ cup to the batter along with the cranberries.

Conclusion: A Citrus-Packed Delight You’ll Crave Again and Again

This Zesty Cranberry Orange Loaf is the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and moist. It’s a treat that works for breakfast, dessert, or even a holiday gift. With bursts of cranberries, bright orange zest, and a drizzle of sweet orange glaze, every slice is packed with flavor and charm.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to this delightful loaf. Once you taste it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!

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