Tangy Cranberry Orange Loaf: Sweet Glazed Bread Recipe

Whipping up a cranberry orange loaf can transport you to cozy autumn mornings with its vibrant, zesty flavors.

Seasonal fruits burst through each delectable slice, creating a symphony of tangy and sweet notes.

Soft, tender crumbs mingle with bright citrus undertones that dance across your palate.

Crafted with simple ingredients, this loaf promises a delightful treat that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

Bright orange zest and tart cranberries weave magic into every bite, promising a memorable baking experience.

Fresh from the oven, this loaf beckons with an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.

Drizzle the sweet glaze and watch how it transforms an already amazing dessert into something truly spectacular.

Bake this loaf and let the magic unfold – you won’t regret a single crumb.

What Makes Cranberry Orange Loaf So Refreshing

• Burst with Seasonal Flavor: Cranberry and orange combine to create a delightful winter or holiday-inspired treat that brings festive cheer to any gathering.
• Master Baking with Ease: This recipe offers straightforward steps perfect for both novice and experienced bakers, requiring basic mixing techniques and minimal special skills.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea, or dessert, this loaf adapts beautifully to different occasions and serves as a delicious homemade gift that everyone will love.
• Quick and Satisfying Preparation: With simple ingredients and uncomplicated mixing method, this recipe delivers maximum flavor without demanding extensive time or complex techniques in the kitchen.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cranberry Orange Loaf

• Butter: A rich and creamy base that provides moisture and flavor to the loaf.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture in the baked goods.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the loaf's structure.
• All-Purpose Flour: The primary dry ingredient that forms the foundation of the loaf.
• Cranberries: Fresh berries that add a tart burst of flavor and vibrant color to the loaf.
• Orange Juice: Brings a bright, citrusy essence to both the batter and glaze.

• Milk, Orange Zest: Enhance the overall moisture and citrus profile of the loaf.

• Baking Powder, Kosher Salt: Provide rise and balance the sweetness of the loaf.

• Confectioners Sugar, Orange Juice: Create a smooth, sweet citrus topping that adds shine and extra flavor.

How to Bake a Sweet Glazed Orange Cranberry Loaf

Step 1: Prepare Baking Space

Warm up the oven to 350F (175C). Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to blend butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to create a uniform batter.

Step 4: Blend Liquid Ingredients

• Milk
• Orange juice
• Orange zest

Mix these ingredients well.

Step 5: Combine Dry Components

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Kosher salt

Ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Merge Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add flour mixture and milk mixture to the butter mixture. Use three alternating additions, starting and ending with flour mixture.

Mix on low speed with hand mixer until just combined after each addition.

Step 7: Add Cranberries

Gently fold in cranberries using a spatula.

Be careful not to crush the berries while mixing.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Smooth the top with a spatula. Scatter remaining cranberries evenly over the surface.

Step 9: Bake the Loaf

Bake for 50-55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

If the top browns too quickly, cover with aluminum foil during the second half of baking.

Step 10: Cool the Loaf

Allow the loaf to rest in the pan for 10 minutes.

Transfer to a wire rack and let it cool completely.

Step 11: Create Glaze

• Confectioners sugar
• Orange juice

Stir until smooth and glossy.

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf before serving.

Smart Tips for Moist and Fluffy Orange Loaf

• Zest oranges carefully to avoid bitter white pith, using only bright orange layer for maximum flavor impact.
• Chop cranberries slightly before folding into batter to prevent them from sinking and distribute evenly throughout loaf.
• Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure smoother, more consistent batter texture.
• Test loaf doneness by inserting toothpick at an angle, checking for moist crumbs without wet batter residue.
• Cover loaf with loose foil tent if browning too quickly during baking to prevent burning while ensuring complete interior cooking.

Fun Variations for Cranberry Orange Loaf Lovers

• Lemon Blueberry Loaf: Replace orange juice and zest with lemon juice and zest, swap cranberries for fresh blueberries, creating a bright and tangy summer-inspired bread.
• Gluten-Free Cranberry Variation: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this delicious loaf.
• Vegan Cranberry Orange Bread: Use coconut oil instead of butter, replace eggs with flax eggs, and choose plant-based milk to create a dairy-free and egg-free version of the classic recipe.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Reduce granulated sugar by half, incorporate unsweetened applesauce, and use a sugar-free glaze made with monk fruit sweetener for a lighter, less caloric option.

Drinks and Sides to Pair with Orange Loaf

• Enhance Flavor Pairings: Brew a rich, medium-roast coffee that complements the loaf's bright citrus notes and balances the sweet cranberry tang.
• Breakfast Companion: Serve alongside creamy Greek yogurt topped with honey, creating a delightful contrast to the loaf's texture and adding a smooth, tangy element.
• Afternoon Tea Match: Pair with Earl Grey tea, whose bergamot essence perfectly harmonizes with the orange zest and provides a sophisticated, refreshing counterpoint to the sweet cranberry glaze.
• Wine Suggestion: Select a crisp Moscato d'Asti, whose light, sweet bubbles and subtle citrus undertones beautifully highlight the loaf's fruity and zesty profile.

How to Store Cranberry Orange Loaf Properly

• Store the loaf in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Keep the glaze separate and drizzle just before serving to maintain the loaf's texture.
• Wrap the unglazed loaf completely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add glaze before serving.
• Cut the loaf into individual slices, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature for 30-45 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just don’t thaw them before adding to the batter, and dust them lightly with flour to prevent sinking.

• How do I prevent the cranberries from sinking to the bottom?

Toss the cranberries in a little flour before folding into the batter. This helps them stay suspended throughout the loaf during baking.

• Is it okay to substitute orange juice with another liquid?

You can use milk or water, but orange juice adds a unique citrus flavor. If substituting, the taste will be slightly different from the original recipe.

• Can I make this loaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the loaf a day in advance and store it at room temperature. Add the glaze just before serving for the best taste and presentation.

Cranberry Orange Loaf With Sweet Glaze Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cranberry orange loaf delights senses with zesty citrus and tart berries dancing through moist, tender crumb. Warm spices and sweet glaze create a comforting companion perfect for morning coffee or afternoon tea.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) cranberries, fresh or frozen (unthawed)
• 1 1/2 cups (187.5 g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (61 g) whole milk
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

Baking Essentials:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Glaze Ingredients:

• 1 cup (125 g) confectioners sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons orange juice, freshly squeezed

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment at 350F (175C) and lightly coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, utilize a hand mixer to transform butter and granulated sugar into a silky, uniform mixture.
3. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring thorough blending after each addition.
4. Craft a liquid harmony by merging milk, orange juice, and vibrant orange zest in a separate small vessel.
5. Compose a dry foundation by whisking flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a medium mixing bowl.
6. Methodically integrate the flour mixture and liquid components into the butter base, alternating in three phases. Employ low-speed mixing, halting precisely when ingredients unite.
7. Tenderly introduce cranberries using a spatula, maintaining their delicate structure without crushing.
8. Transfer batter into prepared pan, creating a smooth surface. Artfully distribute remaining cranberries across the top.
9. Bake for 50-55 minutes until a toothpick reveals minimal moist crumbs. Shield with aluminum foil midway if surface browns excessively.
10. Allow loaf to rest in pan for 10 minutes, then transition to a wire rack for complete cooling.
11. Construct a glossy glaze by whisking confectioners sugar and orange juice until luxuriously smooth. Elegantly drizzle over cooled loaf before serving.

Notes

• Carefully measure ingredients to ensure the perfect balance of flavors and texture in your cranberry orange loaf.
• Use room temperature butter and eggs for smoother mixing and better incorporation of ingredients.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a tough, dense loaf – mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Quickly fold cranberries to distribute evenly without crushing, maintaining their whole shape and burst of tartness.
• Check doneness with a toothpick test, looking for moist crumbs but no wet batter for a perfectly baked loaf.
• Customize by substituting fresh cranberries with dried cranberries or adding chopped nuts for extra crunch.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg