Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Delightful and Moist Recipe

Name: Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened; 0.75 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.5 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible); 1 large zest of orange; 1.5 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons orange juice; 1 orange zest for garnish (optional)

December 2, 2025February 5, 2025 by Lauren

Looking for a simple, delicious recipe that brightens your day? This Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread is exactly what you need! With its moist texture and refreshing citrus flavor, this bread is a must-bake for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, my easy step-by-step guide will help you whip up this delightful treat. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this tasty bread!

Why I Love This Recipe

Bright Flavor: The combination of orange juice and zest with tart cranberries creates a refreshing and zesty flavor that brightens up any day.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This bread is delightful for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, making it versatile for family gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Easy to Make: The simple steps and common ingredients mean you can whip this up quickly, even on a busy day.
Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant orange glaze and cranberries make this bread not only delicious but also visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– Dry ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– Wet ingredients:

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 3/4 cup granulated sugar

– 2 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)

– Zest of 1 large orange

– Cranberries:

– 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen, roughly chopped

– Orange glaze:

– 1 cup powdered sugar

– 2-3 tablespoons orange juice

– Zest of 1 orange for garnish (optional)

Gathering these ingredients sets you up for success. Choose fresh cranberries if you can. This choice adds a bright flavor. If you use frozen berries, make sure they are chopped. This helps them mix well into the batter.

For the glaze, powdered sugar and orange juice create a sweet finish. Adding zest to the glaze boosts the flavor. This is optional, but I highly recommend it.

Having all your ingredients ready makes baking smoother. It also helps you stay organized. Remember, baking is both science and art!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Pan

First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for even baking. While your oven heats, grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Grease it well with butter or non-stick spray. Proper greasing helps the bread slide out easily after baking. If you skip this step, the bread might stick and break.

Mixing the Ingredients

Start by mixing your dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Set this bowl aside. Next, in a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step adds air, making your bread soft. Then, add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 cup of orange juice, and the zest of 1 large orange.

Now, gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. It’s okay if you see a few lumps. Finally, gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of chopped cranberries. This adds a burst of flavor.

Baking the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial for the best texture.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To keep your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread moist, follow these tips:

– Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Start with butter and eggs at room temperature. This helps them mix better and keeps the bread airy.

– Do Not Overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no flour. Lumps are okay; they help keep the bread soft.

– Add an Extra Egg: For even more moisture, you can add one more egg. This will make the bread richer and fluffier.

Enhancing Flavor

Adding spices or extracts can kick up the flavor of your bread.

– Try Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg can add warmth. It pairs nicely with the orange and cranberry.

– Add Almond Extract: Just a little can give a lovely twist to the flavor.

– Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a tart bite. Frozen cranberries work too, but they may make the bread a bit denser. Make sure to chop them before use.

These tips can help you create a delightful and moist Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread that everyone will love!

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter.
Adjust the Glaze Thickness: If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less orange juice. For a thinner glaze, add more juice until you reach your desired consistency.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Store Properly: To keep the bread moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Variations

Seasonal Twists

You can add a fun twist to your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread. Nuts like walnuts or pecans give a nice crunch and flavor. They also add healthy fats. Just chop them up and fold them into the batter with the cranberries.

You can also try adding other fruits, like blueberries. Blueberries bring a sweet and juicy taste. Mix in about a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries for a delightful change.

Healthier Substitutes

If you’re looking for healthier options, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients. It keeps the bread moist and tasty.

You can also swap out granulated sugar for alternatives like honey or maple syrup. This change can make your bread a bit healthier. If you want a vegan version, use flax eggs instead of real eggs. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

These simple swaps help you enjoy a tasty treat that fits your diet.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread fresh, follow these steps:

– Allow the bread to cool completely.

– Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

– Place the wrapped bread in an airtight container.

This method helps prevent drying out. For best results, store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a humid area, consider refrigerating it to avoid mold.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing is a great option if you want to save some for later. Here’s how to do it:

– Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap.

– Then wrap it in aluminum foil for extra protection.

– Label the package with the date.

You can freeze this bread for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, move the bread to the fridge overnight. After that, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before unwrapping. This keeps it moist and tasty.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. They work great in this recipe. Just chop them and fold them into the batter. No need to thaw them first. The bread will still bake well, and the cranberries will add nice bursts of flavor.

What can I do if the bread is too dry?

If your bread turns out too dry, don’t worry! Here are some tips to fix it:

– Brush the bread with a bit of orange juice or melted butter.

– Serve it with a spread like cream cheese or butter.

– You can also use a glaze to add moisture when serving.

How do I make the glaze thicker/thinner?

To adjust your glaze, follow these steps:

– For a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time.

– For a thinner glaze, mix in a bit more orange juice, one teaspoon at a time.

– Stir until you reach the desired consistency.

In this blog post, we covered everything you need to bake delicious cranberry orange bread. We discussed ingredients, mixing steps, baking tips, and ways to enhance flavors. You learned how to store leftovers and the best methods for freezing. With simple adjustments, you can make this bread healthier or add seasonal twists. Baking can be fun and rewarding, especially with this recipe. I hope you feel excited to try it and share with others. Enjoy your bakin

$- Dry ingredients: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - Wet ingredients: - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 3/4 cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible) - Zest of 1 large orange - Cranberries: - 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen, roughly chopped - Orange glaze: - 1 cup powdered sugar - 2-3 tablespoons orange juice - Zest of 1 orange for garnish (optional) Gathering these ingredients sets you up for success. Choose fresh cranberries if you can. This choice adds a bright flavor. If you use frozen berries, make sure they are chopped. This helps them mix well into the batter. For the glaze, powdered sugar and orange juice create a sweet finish. Adding zest to the glaze boosts the flavor. This is optional, but I highly recommend it. Having all your ingredients ready makes baking smoother. It also helps you stay organized. Remember, baking is both science and art! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for even baking. While your oven heats, grab a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Grease it well with butter or non-stick spray. Proper greasing helps the bread slide out easily after baking. If you skip this step, the bread might stick and break. Start by mixing your dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Set this bowl aside. Next, in a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until it's light and fluffy. This step adds air, making your bread soft. Then, add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 cup of orange juice, and the zest of 1 large orange. Now, gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. It's okay if you see a few lumps. Finally, gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of chopped cranberries. This adds a burst of flavor. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready. After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial for the best texture. To keep your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread moist, follow these tips: - Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Start with butter and eggs at room temperature. This helps them mix better and keeps the bread airy. - Do Not Overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no flour. Lumps are okay; they help keep the bread soft. - Add an Extra Egg: For even more moisture, you can add one more egg. This will make the bread richer and fluffier. Adding spices or extracts can kick up the flavor of your bread. - Try Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg can add warmth. It pairs nicely with the orange and cranberry. - Add Almond Extract: Just a little can give a lovely twist to the flavor. - Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a tart bite. Frozen cranberries work too, but they may make the bread a bit denser. Make sure to chop them before use. These tips can help you create a delightful and moist Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread that everyone will love! Pro Tips Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter. Adjust the Glaze Thickness: If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less orange juice. For a thinner glaze, add more juice until you reach your desired consistency. Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the bread light and fluffy. Store Properly: To keep the bread moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. {{image_2}} You can add a fun twist to your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread. Nuts like walnuts or pecans give a nice crunch and flavor. They also add healthy fats. Just chop them up and fold them into the batter with the cranberries. You can also try adding other fruits, like blueberries. Blueberries bring a sweet and juicy taste. Mix in about a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries for a delightful change. If you're looking for healthier options, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients. It keeps the bread moist and tasty. You can also swap out granulated sugar for alternatives like honey or maple syrup. This change can make your bread a bit healthier. If you want a vegan version, use flax eggs instead of real eggs. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. These simple swaps help you enjoy a tasty treat that fits your diet. To keep your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread fresh, follow these steps: - Allow the bread to cool completely. - Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. - Place the wrapped bread in an airtight container. This method helps prevent drying out. For best results, store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a humid area, consider refrigerating it to avoid mold. Freezing is a great option if you want to save some for later. Here’s how to do it: - Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap. - Then wrap it in aluminum foil for extra protection. - Label the package with the date. You can freeze this bread for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, move the bread to the fridge overnight. After that, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before unwrapping. This keeps it moist and tasty. Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. They work great in this recipe. Just chop them and fold them into the batter. No need to thaw them first. The bread will still bake well, and the cranberries will add nice bursts of flavor. If your bread turns out too dry, don’t worry! Here are some tips to fix it: - Brush the bread with a bit of orange juice or melted butter. - Serve it with a spread like cream cheese or butter. - You can also use a glaze to add moisture when serving. To adjust your glaze, follow these steps: - For a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time. - For a thinner glaze, mix in a bit more orange juice, one teaspoon at a time. - Stir until you reach the desired consistency. In this blog post, we covered everything you need to bake delicious cranberry orange bread. We discussed ingredients, mixing steps, baking tips, and ways to enhance flavors. You learned how to store leftovers and the best methods for freezing. With simple adjustments, you can make this bread healthier or add seasonal twists. Baking can be fun and rewarding, especially with this recipe. I hope you feel excited to try it and share with others. Enjoy your baking!$