Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Loaf
1. Bursting with Flavor: Fresh cranberries and zesty orange create a delicious sweet-tart balance.
2. Perfect for Sharing: This recipe makes multiple loaves, ideal for gifting or enjoying with friends.
3. Simple to Make: Easy ingredients and a straightforward process make this foolproof for beginners.
4. Customizable: Add nuts or a glaze for extra flavor and texture.
Ingredients
For the Loaf:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (chopped, if large)
Optional Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons orange juice
• Orange zest for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step helps create a tender texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Orange Zest
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the orange zest for a burst of citrus flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredients and the orange juice/milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Cranberries
Gently fold in the cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Divide and Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze (Optional)
Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If desired, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice to create a glaze, and drizzle it over the cooled loaves. Garnish with orange zest for a finishing touch.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Loaf
1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest make all the difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense loaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Prevent Cranberries from Sinking: Toss the cranberries in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter.
4. Customize: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or even white chocolate chips for a fun twist.
5. Storage: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
• For Breakfast: Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea.
• As a Snack: Perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up.
• For Dessert: Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Why This Recipe Works
This Cranberry Orange Loaf strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet. The orange juice and zest add brightness, while the cranberries provide a juicy tang in every bite. Soft, moist, and packed with flavor, it’s an irresistible treat for any time of year.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried cranberries. Soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using to plump them up.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still taste amazing.
3. How do I know when the loaf is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales well, making it ideal for holiday baking or gift-giving.
A Perfect Gift from Your Kitchen
This Cranberry Orange Loaf isn’t just a treat—it’s a thoughtful way to share homemade goodness with loved ones. Package it in a pretty loaf pan or wrap it in festive paper for an unforgettable holiday gift.
Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out and if you added your own twist. Don’t forget to share this post with friends and family who love baking!
Happy Baking!
