Description

This Zesty Cranberry Orange Loaf combines tangy cranberries, sweet orange zest, and a moist, tender crumb for a delightful treat. Topped with a bright orange glaze, this loaf is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a holiday gift. Easy to make and full of vibrant flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again!

Ingredients

For the Bread:

¾ cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
⅓ cup 2% milk
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
½ cup canola or vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour (260 grams)
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups frozen cranberries
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating the cranberries)

For the Glaze:

½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cranberries:

Toss the frozen cranberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to coat them. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking. Set aside.

2. Make the Batter:

In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, milk, orange juice, orange zest, and oil until combined.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

3. Add Cranberries:

Gently fold the floured cranberries into the batter until evenly distributed.

4. Bake the Loaf:

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

5. Prepare the Glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Start with 1 tablespoon of orange juice and add more as needed.

6. Glaze the Bread:

Once the loaf has completely cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Frozen Cranberries: No need to thaw frozen cranberries—just coat them in flour and use them directly.
Orange Juice and Zest: For maximum flavor, use fresh orange juice and zest.
Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Instructions: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Optional Add-Ins: Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add extra texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American