Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

The Easy Orange Cranberry Bread is a delightful blend of zesty and sweet flavors, perfect for the holiday season. This quick bread not only fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma but also brings a festive touch to any gathering. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this bread is versatile enough to suit various occasions. Its standout qualities include the refreshing taste of oranges paired with tart cranberries, making it a must-try recipe that everyone will love.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Bread
• How to Make Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Prepare Wet Mixture
• Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
• Step 5: Bake the Bread
• How to Serve Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
• With Cream Cheese Spread
• As a Breakfast Toast
• Pairing with Hot Tea
• Served with Fresh Fruit
• Topped with Glaze
• How to Perfect Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
• Best Side Dishes for Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
• Reheating Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Easy Orange Cranberry Bread so special?
• Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?
• How do I know when my Easy Orange Cranberry Bread is done?
• Can I add nuts to my Easy Orange Cranberry Bread?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, allowing you to whip up a delicious loaf in no time.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of orange zest and cranberries creates a bright and cheerful flavor that embodies the holiday spirit.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for breakfasts, snacks, or as a gift during the festive season.
• Mouthwatering Aroma: Baking this bread fills your home with an irresistible scent that will have everyone asking for more.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for family gatherings or holiday parties, it’s sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Easy Orange Cranberry Bread, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Essential for shaping the bread evenly while it bakes.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining dry and wet ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps to incorporate air into the wet ingredients for a fluffier texture.

Ingredients

The perfect zesty and sweet quick bread for the holidays! This Orange Cranberry Bread will make your whole house smell like Christmas!

For the Bread

• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup sugar
• zest of 3 large oranges
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 Tablespoon orange juice (fresh)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (chopped or halved)

How to Make Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare your loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine these dry ingredients:
1. All purpose flour
2. Salt
3. Baking powder
4. Sugar

Set this mixture aside once thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Mixture

In another large bowl, whisk together:
1. Orange zest
2. Buttermilk
3. Oil
4. Eggs
5. Orange juice
6. Vanilla extract

Make sure everything is well blended before proceeding.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture:
1. Gently fold until just combined.
2. Add in the chopped or halved cranberries and stir JUST until incorporated.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for about an hour or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool before serving!

How to Serve Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

Easy Orange Cranberry Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it as a breakfast option or a sweet snack, its zesty flavor pairs wonderfully with different accompaniments.

With Cream Cheese Spread

• A creamy layer of cream cheese enhances the bread’s sweetness and adds a rich texture.

As a Breakfast Toast

• Toast slices of the bread and top them with butter or jam for a quick and delicious morning meal.

Pairing with Hot Tea

• Enjoy the bread with a warm cup of tea; the citrus notes complement many herbal and black teas beautifully.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• A side of fresh fruits like oranges or berries provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet bread.

Topped with Glaze

• Drizzle a simple orange glaze on top for an extra touch of sweetness and shine.

How to Perfect Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

Making the perfect Easy Orange Cranberry Bread can elevate your baking game. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out moist and flavorful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries and oranges will yield the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently folding the ingredients helps maintain the bread’s lightness. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
• Check Oven Temperature: An accurate oven temperature is crucial for even baking. Use an oven thermometer if you’re unsure.
• Let it Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to avoid sogginess.
• Store Properly: Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store them at room temperature for optimal freshness.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

Pairing Easy Orange Cranberry Bread with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options that enhance its flavors.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a nutritious side that balances sweetness.
2. Cinnamon Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with cinnamon creates a cozy breakfast experience alongside the bread.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette cuts through the sweetness, making for a refreshing contrast.
4. Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which pair excellently with cranberry flavors.
5. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein, making your meal more filling when served together.
6. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad brings brightness and freshness, enhancing the citrus notes in the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and even the smallest mistake can affect your Easy Orange Cranberry Bread. Here are some common errors to watch for:

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense bread. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven properly. An inconsistent temperature can cause uneven baking.
• Using stale ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially baking powder, are fresh for the best rise and flavor.
• Skipping the zest: The orange zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip this ingredient for maximum taste.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons. Accurate measurements ensure your bread turns out perfectly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Container: Use an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.

Freezing Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bread in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 15-30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat. Heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Easy Orange Cranberry Bread so special?

Easy Orange Cranberry Bread combines sweet and tart flavors, making it perfect for holidays or any occasion.

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just do not thaw them before adding to the batter.

How do I know when my Easy Orange Cranberry Bread is done?

Insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.

Can I add nuts to my Easy Orange Cranberry Bread?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a delightful crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Orange Cranberry Bread is not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect for breakfast or as a festive treat, it fills your home with wonderful aromas. Feel free to customize it with nuts or spices to make it your own. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!