Description
Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze
This Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful fusion of tart cranberries and zesty orange, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. The sweet-tart glaze adds an irresistible layer of citrusy goodness, making each bite more flavorful than the last. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat!
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
¾ cup fresh orange juice
1 tbsp orange zest
2 cups fresh cranberries
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice
½ tsp orange zest
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a loaf pan.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients.
3. Mix wet ingredients, then combine with dry.
4. Fold in cranberries and bake for 60-70 mins.
5. Cool, glaze, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 270 per slice
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together the 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon. This ensures even leavening.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the melted butter, egg, ¾ cup orange juice, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest until fully emulsified.
4. Make the Batter: Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the well. Using a spatula, gently fold until just combined; a few streaks of flour are okay. Overmixing leads to a tough bread.
5. Fold in Cranberries: Toss the 2 cups of fresh cranberries in 1 tablespoon of the reserved flour mixture (this helps prevent sinking). Gently fold them into the batter.
6. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
7. Cool & Glaze: Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Whisk the glaze ingredients until smooth and drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is versatile! Serve a thick slice lightly toasted with a smear of cream cheese or butter for breakfast. For an elegant dessert, top a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a glass of dessert wine.
How-to Summary
In short: Whisk dry ingredients. Mix wet ingredients separately. Combine wet and dry gently. Fold in flour-tossed cranberries. Bake at 350°F for 60-70 minutes. Cool completely before drizzling with a simple orange juice and powdered sugar glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, do not thaw them. Use directly from the freezer and toss in flour to prevent bleeding and sinking.
Can I make this bread ahead? Absolutely. Bake, cool completely, and wrap tightly unglazed. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Add the glaze after thawing.
What if I don’t have fresh orange juice? Bottled juice works in a pinch, but the flavor from fresh zest and juice is far superior. Avoid using orange extract as a 1:1 substitute.
Why did my bread sink in the middle? This is typically due to underbaking or opening the oven door too early. Ensure your baking powder/soda is fresh and use a toothpick test.
Can I add nuts? Yes, ½ to ¾ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans folded in with the cranberries adds lovely texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This develops gluten, resulting in a dense, tough crumb. Mix until just combined.
- Adding glaze to a warm loaf: The heat will cause the glaze to melt and absorb, creating a soggy top and mess. Patience is key.
- Not flouring the cranberries: Skipping this step often causes the fruit to sink to the bottom during baking.
- Using rancid leavening agents: Old baking powder or soda won’t provide proper lift. Test them if unsure.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Orange Bread is a timeless treat that masterfully balances sweet and tart flavors. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a moist, tender loaf with vibrant bursts of cranberry in every slice. The final citrus glaze elevates it from a simple quick bread to a special occasion-worthy bake. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!