Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that fills your home with the scent of citrus and sweetness, then you’ve landed in the right spot! This Easy Orange Cranberry Bread is one of my all-time favorites. The bright flavor of oranges mixed with tart cranberries creates a perfect balance that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or just a little something to brighten up a busy weeknight, this bread is sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen too!

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! You can whip it up in no time, and it’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own with a warm cup of tea. Trust me, once you bake this Easy Orange Cranberry Bread, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days.
• Family-friendly delight: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and tangy flavors!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week—perfect for breakfast or snacks.
• Festive aroma: Your kitchen will smell amazing while this bread bakes, adding a cozy feel to any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is half the fun! Each one plays an important role in creating the zesty flavor and delightful texture of this Easy Orange Cranberry Bread. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Bread

• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup sugar
• zest of 3 large oranges
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 Tablespoon fresh orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (chopped or halved)

Variations

One of the great things about this Easy Orange Cranberry Bread is its versatility! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Use dried cranberries: If fresh ones aren’t available, dried cranberries work perfectly too!
• Incorporate spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Swap in different fruits: Try using blueberries or raspberries alongside the cranberries for a fruity twist.

How to Make Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that your bread bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it well. This will help prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the bread once it’s baked.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine your flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure your bread rises perfectly without lumps.

Step 4: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together the orange zest, buttermilk, oil, eggs, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract. This mix brings all those vibrant flavors together and adds moisture to your bread.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Gently fold them together until just combined; be careful not to overmix! Just before fully combined, fold in those beautiful cranberries—this will keep them intact and juicy during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and pop it into the oven. Bake for about an hour or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will be heavenly as it bakes!

And there you have it—the steps are simple, but each one adds magic to this Easy Orange Cranberry Bread. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Easy Orange Cranberry Bread to perfection!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries and real orange zest make all the difference in flavor. The freshness enhances the bread’s zesty profile and ensures that every bite is a burst of citrus goodness.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which is not what we want for our light and fluffy bread.
• Check for Doneness: In addition to using a knife to test for doneness, you can also gently press down on the top of the bread; it should spring back slightly when fully baked. This ensures your bread is perfectly cooked throughout.
• Cool Before Slicing: Letting your bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its structure. Slicing too soon can lead to a crumbly mess!
• Store Properly: To keep your Easy Orange Cranberry Bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps retain moisture and flavor for days!

How to Serve Easy Orange Cranberry Bread

Serving your Easy Orange Cranberry Bread can be as enjoyable as baking it! With its vibrant color and aroma, it makes a lovely centerpiece on any table.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. It’s simple yet elevates the presentation beautifully.
• Orange Zest: Sprinkle additional freshly grated orange zest on top for an extra burst of citrus flavor and a pop of color that complements the bread perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Cream Cheese Spread: A tangy cream cheese spread pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tart notes of the bread. It adds richness while balancing the flavors beautifully.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the dense bread. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch!
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits like berries or banana alongside your bread for a wholesome breakfast option. The creaminess of yogurt contrasts nicely with the texture of the bread.
• Herbal Tea: A cup of soothing herbal tea enhances the cozy experience of enjoying your freshly baked bread. Choose flavors like chamomile or peppermint that won’t overpower its deliciousness.

Now you’re all set to bake, serve, and enjoy your Easy Orange Cranberry Bread! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Orange Cranberry Bread is not only delicious, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, or even share it with friends and family during the holidays.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate it for up to a week.
• To maintain freshness, consider wrapping the loaf tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container.

Freezing

• Allow the bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Just label and date your bags!

Reheating

• For slices: Thaw at room temperature or microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• For the whole loaf: Remove from the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making your Easy Orange Cranberry Bread!

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Dried cranberries can be used if you don’t have fresh ones. Just chop them a bit to incorporate evenly into the batter.

How can I enhance my Easy Orange Cranberry Bread?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture, or increase the orange juice for an extra burst of citrus flavor!

What should I serve with Easy Orange Cranberry Bread?

This bread is delightful on its own, but you can pair it with cream cheese or butter for a tasty breakfast treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Orange Cranberry Bread! It’s such a special recipe that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or sharing it as a thoughtful gift, this bread is sure to delight. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with wonderful aromas!