Indulge in the delightful flavors of cranberry orange bread, a perfect combination of tart cranberries and bright, zesty oranges. This moist, sweet bread makes for a wonderful breakfast treat, snack, or dessert. The vibrant colors and aromas will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this bread is sure to become a favorite for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh cranberries, halved
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/2 cup orange juice
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 1 loaf, serving approximately 8 slices. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice), this bread contains approximately 180 calories, 7g fat, 26g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 12g sugars.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter until fluffy.
4. Add milk and eggs to the butter, mixing until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Fold in the cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
8. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
10. Slice and enjoy your cranberry orange bread warm or at room temperature.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh cranberries with dried cranberries for a sweeter flavor. Additionally, whole wheat flour can replace all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
Serving and Pairings
Cranberry orange bread pairs beautifully with a dollop of cream cheese or butter. It also goes well with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal snack or breakfast option.
Storage and Reheating
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven for a warm treat.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bread.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture.
- Skipping the cooling step may cause the bread to crumble.
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven baking.
- Using old baking powder can prevent rising.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
- Experiment with adding nuts for extra crunch.
- Consider glazing with a simple icing for added sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but do not thaw them before adding to the batter. They may bleed slightly but will still taste great.
How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and flavor to the bread.
What can I use instead of orange juice?
Lemon juice can be used for a different flavor profile, but it will be less sweet.
How long does this bread last?
Stored properly, it lasts up to three days at room temperature or three months in the freezer.
Conclusion
Cranberry orange bread is a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the refreshing zest of oranges. It’s perfect for any occasion and can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe with family and friends!
Cranberry Orange Bread
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh cranberries halved
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the butter until fluffy.
- Add milk and eggs to the butter, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Slice and enjoy your cranberry orange bread warm or at room temperature.
