The aroma of Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze wafting through your kitchen is nothing short of magical. Tart cranberries, vibrant orange zest, and a sweet, citrusy glaze come together in this show-stopping loaf. It’s moist, flavorful, and incredibly versatile—perfect for the holidays or as a year-round treat.

Inspired by traditional recipes and enhanced with a modern twist, this homemade cranberry bread will quickly become your go-to for festive gatherings or a simple weekend indulgence. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just yourself, this recipe promises a loaf that’s bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Bread :

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a beginner-friendly recipe.
• Moist and Tender: Every slice is perfectly soft, thanks to a balanced mix of wet and dry ingredients.
• Bursting with Cranberries: The tartness of fresh cranberries is complemented by a bright orange glaze.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday spreads to a cozy breakfast treat, this holiday cranberry bread fits the bill.

Ingredients for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze :

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this easy cranberry bread, broken down into dry and wet ingredients for simplicity:

For the Dry Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure of the loaf.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the bread rise evenly.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.

For the Wet Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup milk (room temperature): Adds moisture to the batter.
• Zest of 1 large orange, divided: Brings a fresh, citrusy aroma to the bread and glaze.
• 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed): Infuses the batter with natural sweetness and tang.
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened): Ensures a tender crumb.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread while keeping it light.
• 2 large eggs (room temperature): Provides structure and richness.

Mix-Ins:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries (rinsed and dried): The star of the recipe, adding bursts of tart flavor.
• 1/2 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Coats the cranberries to prevent sinking.

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet glaze.
• 1 1/2 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice: Adjusts the glaze’s consistency and flavor.
• 1 tsp orange zest: Enhances the citrusy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions :

This cranberry orange bread is easy to prepare in just a few simple steps. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2-inch loaf pan with butter and dust lightly with flour. Tap out the excess flour.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a measuring cup, combine milk, orange zest (reserve 1 tsp for the glaze), and orange juice. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two parts, alternating with the milk mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined.
2. Toss cranberries with 1/2 Tbsp flour and fold them gently into the batter.

Step 5: Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Orange Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and reserved orange zest until smooth.
2. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more orange juice (to thin) or powdered sugar (to thicken).

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread, allowing it to set before slicing and serving.

Tip: Use a piping bag or spoon for a more precise glaze drizzle.

Tips for Success :

• Use Fresh Cranberries: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh cranberries. If using frozen, do not thaw them.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the bread dense.
• Cool Before Glazing: Ensure the bread is completely cooled before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting off.

Variations :

• Add Nuts: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Try Different Berries: Substitute cranberries with blueberries or raspberries.
• Make Muffins: Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18-20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions :

This moist cranberry bread is perfect for:

• Breakfast: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
• Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Snacking: Enjoy a slice on its own for a midday pick-me-up.

Storage Instructions :

• Room Temperature: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Common Questions :

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes! Frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. Use them straight from the freezer without thawing to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely. This bread stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Prepare it a day ahead and glaze just before serving.

What can I use instead of orange juice in the glaze?

If you don’t have orange juice, try lemon juice for a tangy twist or milk for a milder flavor.

Why is my bread dry?

Overbaking or using too much flour can result in dry bread. Be sure to measure ingredients accurately and check for doneness early.

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Yield: 10 slices

Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Print

Enjoy your Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze—a festive treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 50 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour,
• 1 tsp baking powder,
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Wet Ingredients:
• 1/4 cup milk,
• zest of 1 large orange,
• 1/4 cup orange juice,
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter,
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar,
• 2 large eggs
• Mix-Ins: 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries,
• 1/2 Tbsp flour
• Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar,
• 1 1/2 Tbsp orange juice,
• 1 tsp orange zest

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Grease and flour a loaf pan.
2. Dry Mix: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Wet Mix: Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs, milk, orange zest, and juice.
4. Combine: Alternate adding dry ingredients and wet mixture. Fold in cranberries.
5. Bake: Pour batter into the pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes. Cool before glazing.
6. Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest. Drizzle over cooled bread.

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