Cranberry Orange Bread has become a beloved staple in many households, especially during the holiday season. Its vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma make it a perfect addition to any gathering. The tangy sweetness of cranberries paired with the bright zest of fresh oranges creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and comforting. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, enjoying it as a snack, or gifting it to friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why We Love This Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
This Cranberry Orange Bread is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and easy to prepare. The combination of sour cream and butter provides a moist and tender crumb, while the crunchy pecans add a delightful texture. The bright orange notes elevate the bread, making it an inviting choice for all ages. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use fresh cranberries, which often appear in grocery stores during the holiday season.
Making this bread creates an atmosphere of warmth and joy in your kitchen. The straightforward ingredients and relatively simple preparation make it accessible, even for novice bakers. You will find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again, regardless of the occasion.
Ingredients about Cranberry Orange Bread
To craft this delectable loaf, gather the following ingredients:
- 3/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 1 Tablespoon orange zest, finely grated
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups cranberries, cut in half
- 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
- 2 teaspoons sparkling sugar (optional)
For the Orange Glaze:
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 2 and 1/2 teaspoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread Directions
Now, let’s dive into the preparation of this scrumptious bread. First, you’ll want to set the stage for your baking by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your bread comes out perfectly shaped without any sticking or mess.
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, orange zest, orange juice, and vegetable oil. Mix these ingredients well and set aside. This mixture adds moisture and a burst of flavor, which is essential for the perfect bread.
Next, take a large mixing bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cardamom (if using), baking powder, and baking soda. This step is vital as it helps ensure that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Now it’s time to cream the butter. Use a stand mixer or a large bowl with a handheld mixer to beat the room-temperature butter until it’s smooth. Add both the granulated sugar and light brown sugar, continuing to beat the mixture until it’s light and fluffy. This process usually takes about three minutes; take your time to ensure a perfect texture.
Once your butter and sugar are ready, add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure they are well combined into the batter.
On a low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients three times, alternating with the wet mixture in two additions. Your goal is to mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this could lead to a denser texture rather than the light and airy bread you’re aiming for.
After mixing, gently fold in the halved cranberries and coarsely chopped pecans using a spatula. This addition will give your bread a delightful burst of flavor and crunch.
Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. As a final touch, sprinkle the top with sparkling sugar for added sweetness and visual appeal, and if you wish, press a few extra cranberries and pecans on top.
Place your loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Your kitchen will soon start to fill with a heavenly aroma. After baking, perform a toothpick test by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean when the bread is ready.
Once baked to perfection, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about one hour. This waiting period helps improve the texture and makes it easier to remove.
While your bread cools, whisk together the orange glaze using confectioners’ sugar, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This glaze adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the bread beautifully.
When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the orange glaze over the cooled bread for that delightful finish!
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bread
Cranberry Orange Bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature, making it a delightful addition to your breakfast table or a snack time treat.
For breakfast, slice the bread and serve it with a dollop of butter or a smear of cream cheese. The tangy sweetness from the cranberries pairs perfectly with these accompaniments. If you’re planning a brunch, consider serving this bread alongside a fruit salad or a selection of muffins and pastries for a beautiful spread.
During holiday gatherings or cozy get-togethers, this bread can easily be sliced and presented as a festive centerpiece. You can make individual servings by pre-slicing the loaf and arranging the pieces on a platter. This way, guests can easily grab a slice, making it a convenient option.
Adding fresh orange slices or a simple green garnish like mint can elevate your presentation, turning this delightful bread into eye-catching artisanal fare that looks as good as it tastes!
Expert Tips: Cranberry Orange Bread
To ensure your Cranberry Orange Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:
- Ingredient Temperature: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before you begin. This helps them incorporate better, leading to a smoother batter.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cranberries if possible, as they provide a burst of flavor that frozen ones may not replicate. However, if you opt for frozen, do not thaw them—just fold them into the batter straight from the freezer.
- Zest Smartly: When zesting the orange, be sure to only take the outer layer of the peel. The white pith beneath can be bitter, which may alter the flavor of your bread.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can cause the gluten to overdevelop, resulting in a denser bread.
- Cool in the Pan: Allow your bread to cool in the pan for a full hour. This helps it set properly and makes for easier removal.
- Glaze Smart: Drizzle the orange glaze while the bread is still warm for better adhesion and a melt-in-mouth sweetness.
By following these tips, you’ll increase your chances of creating a stunning and delicious loaf each time.
How to Store Cranberry Orange Bread
Once you have baked and enjoyed your Cranberry Orange Bread, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to maintain its freshness. Allow the bread to cool completely before storing it.
To keep your bread moist and flavorful, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you want to extend its shelf life further, consider placing it in an airtight container. This will help retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
You can store the bread at room temperature for about three days. If you find you have more than you can eat within that time frame, freezing is a great option. To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Variation of Cranberry Orange Bread
While the classic Cranberry Orange Bread recipe is delightful on its own, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Nut-Free Version: If you have nut allergies or simply prefer a nut-free bread, you can easily omit the pecans. The bread will still be delicious without them!
- Dried Fruits: For a different flavor profile, try adding chopped dried fruits like apricots, cherries, or raisins. This adds a chewy texture and extra sweetness.
- Spices Change-Up: If you love spices, consider introducing ginger or cloves to the batter to create a warming flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberries and orange.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for proper texture.
- Chocolate Addition: Give your bread an indulgent twist by folding in mini chocolate chips along with the cranberries for a sweet treat that’s sure to please.
- Zesty Variation: If you love citrus, try including lemon zest in addition to the orange for a bright, zesty flavor.
These simple variations allow you to make this delightful bread unique to your preferences while still keeping the core flavors intact.
FAQ: Cranberry Orange Bread
What makes Cranberry Orange Bread so special?
The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange brings a unique flavor to this bread that is both refreshing and comforting.
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries straight from the freezer. Just fold them into the batter without thawing.
How long can I store Cranberry Orange Bread?
You can store it at room temperature for about three days, or wrap slices and freeze for up to three months.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bread actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together.
What can I serve with Cranberry Orange Bread?
This bread is fantastic on its own, but it pairs well with butter, cream cheese, or even fruit preserves. It’s also great alongside coffee or tea.
Is there a gluten-free version of Cranberry Orange Bread?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Cranberry Orange Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 1 Tablespoon orange zest, finely grated
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups cranberries, cut in half
- 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
- 2 teaspoons sparkling sugar (optional)
For the Orange Glaze
- 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar, sifted
- 2 and 1/2 teaspoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9x5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, combine sour cream, orange zest, orange juice, and vegetable oil. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom (if using), baking powder, and baking soda.
- In a mixer, cream the butter until smooth, then add both sugars and beat until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the wet mixture in two additions. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in cranberries and pecans gently with a spatula.
- Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan and optionally sprinkle with sparkling sugar.
Baking
- Bake the loaf for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, performing a toothpick test to check doneness.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about one hour before removing.
Making the Glaze
- Whisk together confectioners' sugar, orange juice, and salt until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread before serving.
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