Cranberry Orange Bread

I still remember the first time I baked this cranberry orange bread—it filled my kitchen with the most wonderful aroma of fresh oranges and tart cranberries, making a chilly morning instantly warmer and brighter.

I recall one unexpected Sunday when friends dropped by and I pulled this loaf from the oven; the look of delight on their faces made me realize this recipe was a keeper for life.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: I always pick this for its reliable texture and to keep the crumb just right, not too dense or crumbly
• Fresh or frozen cranberries: The burst of tartness is what makes this bread special, so never skimp here
• Orange juice and zest: Use freshly squeezed and grated for the brightest, most natural flavor punch
• Vegetable oil or melted butter: I usually opt for oil to keep it moist but buttery gives a richer taste
• Sugar and baking agents: The right balance ensures the bread rises beautifully and has a gentle sweetness without overpowering the fruit

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease your loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper so nothing sticks and the bread can come out easily.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. This is where your bread starts coming together, and you can smell the sweet flour gently mingling.

Blend Wet Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk the egg, fresh orange juice, oil or butter, orange zest and vanilla extract until smooth and fragrant.

Combine and Stir:

Pour the wet mixture into the dry and fold gently with a spatula just until combined—don't overmix or the bread could turn tough.

Add the Good Stuff:

Fold in the cranberries and nuts if you're using them, watching the red blobs peek through the batter, adding that lovely pop of color.

Bake with Love:

Pour batter into loaf pan, smooth the top and bake 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean, filling your kitchen with that zesty cranberry-orange scent.

Cool and Enjoy:

Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing so each piece holds together perfectly.

Save

This bread quickly became more than breakfast or snack; it was how we celebrated the start of fall together, making memories with every slice and warm cup of coffee.

Keeping It Fresh

Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap once cooled and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer keeping, slice and freeze individual pieces wrapped in parchment and foil.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Try it toasted with a smear of butter or cream cheese, or even as a base for a quick dessert topped with whipped cream and more fresh fruit. It pairs perfectly with morning tea or a light afternoon coffee break.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

Once, when unplanned guests arrived hungry and I had nothing but pantry staples, this quick bread came through comforting everyone instantly.

• Don't forget to zest the oranges before juicing—they pack all the flavor!
• Use parchment paper for easy clean up and perfect bread shape
• This bread tastes even better the day after baking once flavors meld

Save

Thanks for spending time with me in the kitchen—I hope this cranberry orange bread brings as much joy to your days as it has to mine.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, sweetened dried cranberries can be used as a substitute, adding a sweeter contrast to the tangy orange flavors.

→ What type of nuts work best in this bread?

Chopped walnuts or pecans complement the texture and bring a mild nutty flavor that pairs well with cranberries and orange.

→ How do I prevent the bread from drying out?

Wrap the loaf tightly at room temperature and consume within three days, or freeze to keep it fresh longer.

→ Is there a recommended glaze for extra flavor?

A simple orange glaze can be made by mixing powdered sugar with fresh orange juice and drizzling over the cooled loaf.

→ What makes this bread moist and tender?

The combination of orange juice, zest, and vegetable oil or melted butter ensures a moist crumb and flavorful result.