If you’re looking for a deliciously moist, citrusy, and slightly tart baked treat, this Cranberry Orange Bread is calling your name! Packed with fresh cranberries and zesty orange flavor, it’s the perfect breakfast, snack, or holiday dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
This bread is soft, buttery, and bursting with flavor, making it a delightful twist on classic quick breads. Plus, the combination of sweet and tart creates a balance that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re making this for Christmas morning, a weekend brunch, or just because, you’ll love how simple and rewarding it is to bake!
“Baking is love made visible, and this Cranberry Orange Bread is proof of that!”
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Bread recipe
- Super Moist & Soft – Thanks to the fresh orange juice and butter, this bread stays deliciously tender.
- Bursts of Flavor – The tangy cranberries and zesty orange make every bite exciting.
- Quick & Easy – No yeast required! Just mix, bake, and enjoy.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for breakfast, brunch, or gifting, this bread is always a hit!
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread recipe
Before we start baking, let’s gather everything we need! Here’s a handy table with ingredients and their quantities:
📝 Ingredient List
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups (250g) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup (200g) |
| Baking powder | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Orange zest | 1 tablespoon |
| Orange juice (fresh) | ¾ cup (180ml) |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | ½ cup (113g) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh cranberries | 1 ½ cups (150g) |
| Optional: Chopped walnuts or pecans | ½ cup |
💡 Pro Tip: Using fresh orange juice instead of store-bought enhances the natural citrus flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
Ready to bake? Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Cranberry Orange Bread recipe!
Preparing the Ingredients
Before anything else, let’s set the stage for success:
✔️ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking.
✔️ Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also use parchment paper to make removal effortless.
✔️ Rinse and dry the cranberries, then cut larger ones in half for even distribution.
Mixing the Batter for the Perfect Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
Now, let’s create the batter that will make this bread fluffy and delicious!
Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest, then whisk until well mixed.
- Toss the cranberries into the flour mixture. This keeps them from settling at the bottom while baking.
Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, orange juice, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together with a spatula. Don’t overmix—just until no dry streaks remain.
“A good batter is like a good friendship—gentle mixing keeps everything in harmony!”
Baking Tips for a Foolproof Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the top starts browning too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil in the last 15 minutes.
Cooling and Storing for Maximum Freshness
- After baking, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Storage Tips:
- Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For extended freshness, refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freeze slices for up to 3 months—just thaw and enjoy whenever you crave a slice!
Troubleshooting Common Baking Problems
❌ Why Did My Bread Turn Out Dry?
✔️ Overbaking or using too much flour can cause dryness. Make sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning and leveling instead of scooping!
❌ How Do I Prevent a Dense Loaf?
✔️ Overmixing can cause toughness. Stir just until combined—lumps are okay!
❌ My Cranberries Sank to the Bottom!
✔️ Coat them lightly with flour before adding to the batter. This helps them stay evenly distributed.
“Exceptional baking requires precision, patience, and a touch of love!”
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins for Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
Want to take your Cranberry Orange Bread recipe to the next level? Here are some fun variations and add-ins to customize this recipe!
1️⃣ Add Crunch with Nuts
Adding walnuts or pecans gives a delightful crunch to every bite. Simply fold ½ cup of chopped nuts into the batter before baking.
2️⃣ Chocolate Lovers’ Twist
Cranberries and orange pair beautifully with chocolate! Stir in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the tart cranberries.
3️⃣ Spiced-Up Version
For a cozy, warm flavor, add:
✔️ ½ teaspoon cinnamon
✔️ ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
✔️ ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
This version is perfect for fall and winter baking!
4️⃣ Streusel-Topped Cranberry Orange Bread
Want a bakery-style look? Make a crumbly streusel topping by mixing:
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Sprinkle this on top before baking for a sweet, crunchy topping!
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
Cranberry Orange Bread recipe is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right drinks and spreads makes it even better!
Drinks That Pair Well
✔️ Coffee or Espresso – The citrus and cranberry flavors contrast beautifully with a bold cup of coffee.
✔️ Hot Tea – Earl Grey or chamomile tea enhances the citrusy notes.
✔️ Fresh Orange Juice – Double the orange goodness for a refreshing breakfast.
The Perfect Breakfast Combo
Want to create a well-balanced breakfast? Try pairing a slice of Cranberry Orange Bread with a savory dish like Avocado Toast with Egg!
The rich, creamy avocado and protein-packed egg balance out the sweet and tangy flavors of the bread, making for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting brunch or enjoying a lazy weekend breakfast, this sweet & savory combo is a must-try!
Spreads & Toppings
✔️ Butter & Honey – Adds a creamy, lightly sweet touch.
✔️ Cream Cheese Spread – A tangy contrast to the sweet bread.
✔️ Homemade Orange Glaze – Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice and drizzle over the bread.
Storage & Freezing Tips
To keep your Cranberry Orange Bread recipe moist and fresh, follow these storage tips:
Short-Term Storage (Up to 3 Days)
✔️ Keep the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature.
Refrigeration (Up to 1 Week)
✔️ Store in the fridge for up to 7 days. Warm slices in the microwave for 10 seconds before serving!
Freezing (Up to 3 Months)
✔️ Wrap the entire loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a ziplock freezer bag.
✔️ To reheat, thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
💡 Pro Tip: If freezing slices, place parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.
The Origins of Cranberry Orange Bread recipe
Cranberries: A Native American Superfood
Cranberries have been a part of North American cuisine for centuries. Native Americans were the first to harvest and use cranberries, not just for food but also for medicinal purposes and natural dyes.
They would mix cranberries with dried meat and fat to create pemmican, a high-energy food that lasted through harsh winters. Over time, European settlers discovered cranberries and started using them in sauces, baked goods, and drinks.
Oranges: A Global Citrus Treasure
Oranges, on the other hand, have an ancient history dating back to China and India, where they were cultivated over 4,000 years ago. Portuguese and Spanish explorers brought oranges to North America, and soon they became a popular ingredient in baking and drinks.
So, how did cranberries and oranges come together in one recipe?
The Birth of Cranberry Orange Bread recipe
The combination of tart cranberries and sweet oranges became popular in the early 20th century as home bakers experimented with quick breads. Unlike yeast breads, quick breads use baking powder or baking soda, making them fast and easy to prepare.
Bakers quickly realized that the zesty citrus balanced out the tartness of cranberries, creating a flavorful and vibrant bread that became a holiday and breakfast favorite.
“The best recipes are born from simple, natural ingredients coming together in perfect harmony.”
Fun Facts About Cranberries Oranges bread recipe
Want to impress your friends while serving a slice of Cranberry Orange Bread recipe? Here are some interesting food facts to enjoy!
Cranberries Can Bounce!
Ever heard of the “bounce test” for cranberries? Ripe cranberries bounce because they have four air pockets inside. Farmers actually use this trick to sort fresh cranberries—if they bounce, they’re good!
Oranges Were Once a Luxury
In the 1800s and early 1900s, oranges were considered a luxury fruit, often given as Christmas gifts. That’s why orange-flavored desserts became a holiday tradition!
Cranberries Are One of the Few Native American Fruits
Unlike oranges, which were brought over by explorers, cranberries are one of the few fruits native to North America. Along with blueberries and Concord grapes, they have been grown here for thousands of years.
Cranberries Are Harvested in Water
Cranberry bogs are flooded during harvest season, and farmers use machines to gently shake the berries off the vines. The cranberries then float to the top, making them easy to collect!
Cranberry Juice Can Clean Water Stains
Thanks to their high acidity, cranberries (and cranberry juice) can break down mineral deposits on glass and dishes. Talk about a multi-purpose fruit!
“Cranberries and oranges make a powerhouse pair—delicious and full of health benefits!”
Expert Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Bread recipe
Want to make your Cranberry Orange Bread even better? Here are some expert baking tips to help you achieve the perfect loaf every time!
Use Fresh Orange Juice & Zest for Maximum Flavor
✔️ Bottled orange juice won’t give the same bright citrus flavor as fresh juice. Always use freshly squeezed orange juice!
✔️ Zest the orange before juicing—it’s much easier that way!
Coat Cranberries with Flour to Prevent Sinking
✔️ Ever had all your cranberries sink to the bottom? Toss them in a little flour before adding them to the batter. This helps them stay evenly distributed throughout the bread.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
✔️ Overmixing can make the bread dense and tough. Stir just until the flour disappears for a light, fluffy texture.
Check for Doneness with a Toothpick
✔️ Insert a toothpick in the center of the bread—if it comes out clean, your bread is done! If there’s batter on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes.
Let the Bread Cool Before Slicing
✔️ It’s tempting to slice the bread right away, but let it cool for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flavors set and prevents it from falling apart.
“Patience is the secret ingredient in baking—great things come to those who wait!”
Health Benefits of Cranberries Oranges bread recipe
This bread is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients!
Cranberries: The Superfood Berry
✔️ Rich in antioxidants, helping boost immunity.
✔️ Supports heart health by reducing inflammation.
✔️ Great for gut health and digestion.
Oranges: Vitamin C Powerhouse
✔️ Strengthens the immune system with high vitamin C.
✔️ Helps with collagen production for healthy skin.
✔️ Naturally boosts energy with fresh citrus flavor.
So, the next time you enjoy a slice, remember—you’re not just indulging, you’re nourishing your body too!
FAQs About Cranberry Orange Bread recipe
1️⃣ Can I Use Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Substitute 1 cup of dried cranberries for fresh. For the best texture, soak them in warm orange juice for 10 minutes before adding to the batter.
2️⃣ What’s the Best Flour to Use?
All-purpose flour is best, but you can substitute whole wheat flour for a heartier version. Just note that whole wheat flour makes the bread slightly denser.
3️⃣ How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this bread dairy-free and egg-free, replace:
✔️ Butter → ½ cup coconut oil or vegan butter
✔️ Eggs → 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 5 tbsp water)
4️⃣ Can I Make This into Muffins Instead?
Absolutely! Pour the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper cups and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes.
“Baking is a creative process—feel free to experiment and make this recipe uniquely yours!”
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your ultimate guide to baking the best Cranberry Orange Bread recipe! Whether you love it plain, with nuts, or with a chocolatey twist, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.
This recipe is easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion—from cozy mornings to festive holiday gatherings. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy a slice of pure happiness!
Print
Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe: 7 Easy Steps to Try!
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10-12 slices) 1x
Description
This Cranberry Orange Bread is a moist, buttery, and flavor-packed quick bread bursting with fresh cranberries and citrusy orange zest. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a holiday treat, this loaf balances sweet and tart flavors beautifully. Enjoy it plain, with butter, or topped with an orange glaze for extra indulgence!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon orange zest
Wet Ingredients:
¾ cup (180ml) fresh orange juice
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-Ins:
1 ½ cups (150g) fresh cranberries (halved if large)
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest.
Toss cranberries into the dry mixture to prevent them from sinking while baking.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk eggs, orange juice, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine & Mix
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, folding gently. Do not overmix—a few lumps are okay!
Step 5: Bake
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.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and enjoy!
Notes
For Extra Moisture: Use Greek yogurt or sour cream (¼ cup) for an even softer loaf.
For a Sweeter Loaf: Add ½ cup white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips.
For a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle with coarse sugar or streusel before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: ~210 kcal
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Cranberry Orange Bread, moist cranberry bread, holiday bread, quick bread recipe, easy cranberry orange loaf, best cranberry orange bread, homemade cranberry orange bread, Christmas breakfast ideas