Easy Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe (Delicious & Fluffy!)

Our homemade Cranberry Orange Bread is the perfect combination of sweet and tart flavors, and it will become your new favorite quick bread. The fresh orange zest and juice create a bright, citrusy flavor that perfectly complements the burst of tart cranberries in every bite. Whether you’re looking for an easy breakfast bread or a delicious dessert, this recipe always delivers bakery-quality results.

Cranberry Orange Bread: Quick Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 45-55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour, 5 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (10 servings)
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

This homemade cranberry orange bread is the perfect combination of sweet and tart flavors, sure to become your new favorite quick bread. The fresh orange zest and juice create a bright, citrusy flavor that perfectly complements the burst of tart cranberries in every bite. Whether you’re looking for an easy breakfast bread or a delicious dessert, this recipe always delivers bakery-quality results.

What makes this recipe special:

• Uses fresh or frozen cranberries (available year-round)
• Moist and fluffy texture that stays fresh for days
• Simple ingredients you likely have on hand
• Perfect for holiday baking or everyday treats
• Freezer-friendly for meal prep

What You’ll Need

Essential Kitchen Equipment

• Citrus zester or microplane – For fresh orange zest
• Citrus juicer – Fresh juice makes a difference, but you can use store-bought if preferred
• 9×5-inch loaf pan – Standard size for even baking
• Large mixing bowl – For combining ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurements

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon baking soda

Wet Ingredients:

• ¾ cup fresh orange juice (about 2 large oranges)
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange zest

Mix-ins:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (chopped if large)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and baking soda until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, mix the fresh orange juice, melted butter, beaten egg, and orange zest until smooth.

Step 4: Make the Batter

1. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together until just combined. Don’t overmix – the batter should be slightly lumpy for the most tender bread.

Step 5: Add Cranberries and Nuts

1. Gently fold in the cranberries and walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

1. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
2. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges start pulling away from the pan.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack. Cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Bread

For the best results:

• Use fresh orange juice and zest – This makes a huge difference in flavor
• Don’t overmix the batter – Lumpy batter creates tender, fluffy bread
• Toss cranberries in flour – This prevents them from sinking to the bottom
• Check for doneness – Toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs
• Let it cool completely – This prevents crumbling when slicing

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage and Serving Tips

How to Store Cranberry Orange Bread:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3-5 days
• Refrigerator: Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week
• Freezer: Wrap in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 3 months

Best storage container: Pyrex Simply Store 11 Cup Glass Food Storage Container with snap-on lid

Serving Suggestions:

• Slice and serve with butter
• Toast lightly for a warm breakfast treat
• Pair with coffee or tea for afternoon snacking

More Homemade Bread Recipes You’ll Love

• Healthy Banana Bread
• Homemade Sandwich Bread
• Southern Cornbread
• Healthy Pumpkin Bread.

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