Introduction

Cranberry orange bread is a delightful quick bread that combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright, citrusy flavor of oranges. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a festive treat during the holiday season. The combination of flavors not only delivers a delicious taste but also creates a lovely burst of color that makes this bread visually appealing. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can make this delightful bread in no time.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– All-purpose flour: 2 cups
– Granulated sugar: ¾ cup
– Baking powder: 1 tablespoon
– Baking soda: ½ teaspoon
– Salt: ½ teaspoon
– Orange zest: 1 tablespoon
– Fresh cranberries: 1 cup (chopped, or substitute with dried)
– Orange juice: ½ cup
– Vegetable oil: ⅓ cup
– Eggs: 2 large
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

Prep Time

The preparation time for cranberry orange bread is approximately 15 minutes, allowing you to gather and mix your ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time is about 50-60 minutes, depending on your oven. The total time from prep to bake will take roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. This recipe yields one loaf of cranberry orange bread, which can serve several people, making it a delightful addition to any gathering or meal.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or butter.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until evenly mixed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, beat together granulated sugar, eggs, and orange juice until well combined. Stir in melted butter and orange zest.

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Add Cranberries

Fold in fresh or frozen cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Transfer to Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake the Bread

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the Bread

Once done, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and Serve

Once the bread has cooled, slice it into pieces and serve as desired.

Notes

Storage Tips

Store any leftover cranberry orange bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute fresh cranberries with dried cranberries or raisins if needed. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

This bread pairs well with butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of orange glaze if you desire extra sweetness.

Cook techniques

Mixing Ingredients

Properly mixing your dry and wet ingredients is key to achieving a uniform batter. Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet in another before combining them to avoid clumping.

Proper Baking Temperature

Baking the cranberry orange bread at the right temperature ensures even cooking. Preheat your oven to the desired temperature, and avoid opening the door frequently to maintain heat.

Testing for Doneness

To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Cooling the Bread

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain the bread’s structure and prevents sogginess.

FAQ

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you may need to adjust the sugar content as fresh cranberries are more tart.

How should I store leftover cranberry orange bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I freeze cranberry orange bread?

Yes, this bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

What can I substitute for orange juice?

You can substitute orange juice with apple juice or another citrus juice like lemon or grapefruit for different flavor profiles.

How can I tell if my bread is undercooked?

If the bread is doughy in the center or does not rise properly, it may be undercooked. Always test with a toothpick for doneness.

Conclusion

Enjoying homemade cranberry orange bread is a delightful way to experience the festive flavors that embody the spirit of the season. This moist and flavorful bread not only makes for a perfect breakfast or snack but also serves as a thoughtful gift for friends and family. With its combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges, this recipe is sure to impress and evoke memories of cozy gatherings.

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