If you're craving the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, this Cranberry Orange Bread is here to satisfy your taste buds! Bursting with fresh cranberries and infused with the zesty brightness of orange, this loaf delivers a soft, moist texture and vibrant aroma that’s both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for holiday gatherings, breakfast, or an afternoon snack, it’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Let’s dive into how to create this delightful recipe step by step!

Why This Recipe Is So Irresistible

This cranberry orange bread isn’t just another quick bread—it’s a celebration of seasonal charm:

Tangy & Sweet : The combination of tart cranberries and citrusy orange creates a flavor profile that’s uniquely satisfying.
Moist & Tender : With its buttery base and juicy fruit, every slice is soft and flavorful.
Customizable : Swap out cranberries for other dried fruits like cherries or raisins, or add nuts for extra crunch.
Perfect for Gifting : Wrap slices in parchment paper for a thoughtful and delicious present.

Whether served warm from the oven or enjoyed as leftovers, this bread promises to delight everyone who tries it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter , softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange (about 1 tablespoon)
Juice of ½ orange (about 2 tablespoons)
½ cup dried cranberries (or fresh cranberries, chopped)
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step ensures a tender crumb in the bread.

4. Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until well combined.

Pro Tip: Grate the orange zest finely to maximize its aromatic oils.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and airy.

Fold in the dried cranberries (and optional nuts if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

6. Pour Into the Pan

Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

7. Bake Until Golden

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.

8. Cool and Slice

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with butter for added indulgence.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Cranberries : If available, chop fresh cranberries instead of using dried ones for a juicier result.
Don’t Overfill the Pan : Leave enough space for the bread to rise without spilling over.
Make It Ahead : Prepare the batter up to a day in advance and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavors.
Add Extras : Drizzle with a simple orange glaze (made with powdered sugar and orange juice) for extra flair.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Orange Bread is more than just a loaf—it’s a slice of sunshine and holiday cheer wrapped in buttery goodness. With its bright orange flavor, chewy cranberries, and customizable options, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor this delightful creation! Don’t forget to share your results with us in the comments below—we’d love to see how they turned out.

If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our other articles for more dessert inspiration and easy baking ideas. Happy baking, and remember—life’s too short not to enjoy something sweet now and then! 🍴✨