There’s something magical about the combination of citrusy orange and tart cranberry baked into a warm, moist loaf of bread. This Orange Cranberry Bread is the perfect treat for holiday mornings, cozy afternoons, or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

I first baked this recipe during a snowy December weekend when I craved something festive yet simple. The bright flavors and subtle sweetness make it an instant crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Orange Cranberry Bread

Get ready to embrace your new favorite baked treat. This Orange Cranberry Bread is more than just a quick bread – it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors in every slice.

It’s incredibly easy to make, even if you’re new to baking. With straightforward ingredients and no fancy equipment required, this recipe comes together in just under an hour.

The flavor combination is unbeatable. The sweet and tangy orange zest balances perfectly with the tart bursts of fresh cranberries, creating a harmonious bite that’s both refreshing and comforting.

This bread stays moist and tender for days. Whether you enjoy it freshly baked or save some for later, the texture remains soft and flavorful.

Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that adapts well to your preferences. From adding a glaze to incorporating nuts, this bread is perfect for experimenting with flavors and textures.

Ingredients Notes

The charm of this Orange Cranberry Bread lies in its simple yet carefully balanced ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating its signature flavor and texture.

All-purpose flour is the foundation of this bread, providing structure. For a lighter loaf, you can use half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour.

Fresh cranberries bring their unique tartness, creating delightful pops of flavor in every bite. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen ones work just as well – no need to thaw.

Orange zest and juice are the stars of the show. Use fresh oranges for the best results, as their zest adds a vibrant citrus aroma and their juice keeps the bread moist.

Granulated sugar sweetens the bread without overpowering the natural tartness of the cranberries. If you prefer a deeper flavor, you can substitute part of the sugar with brown sugar.

Butter lends richness and keeps the crumb tender. For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut oil or a neutral vegetable oil.

Special equipment is minimal – just a loaf pan, mixing bowls, and a hand mixer or whisk. This simplicity makes it accessible for any home baker.

How to Make This Orange Cranberry Bread

Making this bread is a joyfully straightforward process. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a fragrant loaf cooling on your counter in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a standard loaf pan. This step ensures your bread releases easily after baking.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. These dry ingredients form the backbone of your batter.

In another bowl, combine melted butter, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, and eggs. Beat until well blended. The citrusy aroma will start to fill your kitchen already!

Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ones, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so keep it gentle.

Fold in the cranberries, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage Options

This bread stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or gifting during the holidays.

At room temperature, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days.

For longer storage, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving to enjoy its full flavor.

To freeze, wrap the loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating is easy. Pop a slice into the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, freshly baked taste.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Add a glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice for an extra layer of sweetness and shine.

Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Swap cranberries with dried ones if fresh or frozen aren’t available. Soak the dried cranberries in orange juice beforehand for a softer texture.

For a healthier twist, use whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly. You can also add a handful of rolled oats for a heartier loaf.

Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor profile.

This Orange Cranberry Bread is as adaptable as it is delightful. Feel free to make it your own and enjoy the compliments from everyone who tries a slice!