Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the spirit of the holiday season. The sweet and tart flavors of fresh cranberries combined with a zesty orange glaze create an irresistible loaf that’s sure to impress family and friends. As someone who has made this recipe countless times, I can assure you it’s a holiday favorite in my home.
Why Make This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The balance of tart cranberries and sweet orange glaze makes every bite a burst of joy.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Gatherings: It’s an ideal addition to holiday brunches or gift baskets, showcasing your baking skills.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Fresh cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making this bread a somewhat healthier indulgence.
- Personally, I love that this recipe not only tastes amazing but fills the kitchen with a fabulous aroma that brings everyone together.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Baking in a loaf pan
My Experience Making This Recipe
When I first tried this recipe, I struggled with the correct measure of cranberries, which led to a too-dense texture. After adjusting the amounts and mixing techniques, I discovered the ideal balance resulted in a fluffy loaf with perfect tartness. Each iteration reaffirmed how small tweaks can make a big difference!
How to Make Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze
Making this bread is a simple yet rewarding process. Begin by mixing your dry ingredients separately, which ensures even distribution of the baking powder and salt. Fold in the wet ingredients gently to avoid overmixing. As the bread bakes, the kitchen fills with the heavenly scent of cranberries and oranges, making it a truly inviting experience.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Cranberries: Opt for fresh, plump cranberries for the best flavor. Frozen cranberries can be used, but remember not to thaw them before mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs when the bread is done.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps maintain its shape.
How to Serve Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze
This bread can be served warm or at room temperature. Here are some delightful serving ideas:
- Breakfast Treat: Serve it for breakfast with a generous spread of butter or cream cheese.
- Holiday Display: Slice the bread and arrange on a festive platter for brunch gatherings.
- Pair with Tea or Coffee: A warm slice pairs beautifully with a cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee.
- Gifts from the Kitchen: Wrap slices in decorative foil or gift bags for homemade gift giving.
Storage and Reheating Guide
- Room Temperature: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, wrapped tightly.
- Freezing: This bread freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it will last for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy a slice warm, microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. For a firmer texture, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk in place of regular milk and coconut oil instead of butter.
- Add Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Variation: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist in the bread.
Nutritional Highlights
Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze is lower in calories than many traditional sweet breads and incorporates fresh fruits rich in antioxidants. Each serving is a source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that this recipe contains gluten and could have allergen considerations based on individual ingredients.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Dense Texture: This often occurs from overmixing. Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Underbaked Center: Ensure your oven is calibrated correctly. If necessary, extend the baking time by a few minutes.
- Too Sweet: If the bread tastes overly sweet, try reducing the sugar by 1/4 cup for a more balanced flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but reduce the sugar as dried cranberries are sweeter. Soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before using to plump them up.
2. Is it okay to double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use a larger mixing bowl and bake in multiple loaf pans if needed. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
3. Can I make this bread in advance?
Yes, you can bake it a day or two in advance. Store it properly and refresh it gently in the oven before serving.
4. What other glazes can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits! Lemon glaze or a simple sugar glaze would also complement the bread beautifully.