why make this recipe
Easy Orange Cranberry Bread is a delightful blend of flavors that brings together the refreshing taste of oranges and the tartness of cranberries. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, making it a versatile addition to any meal. This bread is also simple to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. It serves well for sharing with friends or family, especially during festive occasions or cozy gatherings.
how to make Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix orange juice, melted butter, egg, and orange zest until blended.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the cranberries gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
how to serve Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
You can serve Easy Orange Cranberry Bread warm or at room temperature. Slice it and enjoy it plain, or spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs nicely with coffee or tea, making it a great choice for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack.
how to store Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
To store your Easy Orange Cranberry Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. To freeze, wrap the bread well and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven.
tips to make Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
- Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise.
- If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding. This helps prevent the bread from turning too pink.
- Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch.
- Adjust the sugar level if you prefer a less sweet bread.
variation
You can customize this bread by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Another variation is to substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For an extra citrusy flavor, you can increase the amount of orange zest.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries. Just reduce the sugar slightly since dried cranberries are sweeter.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day or two in advance. Store it properly, and it will taste just as good.
What can I serve with Orange Cranberry Bread?
It pairs well with butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea.
Easy Orange Cranberry Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix orange juice, melted butter, egg, and orange zest until blended.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the cranberries gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
