This Orange Cranberry Bread is a festive and delightful treat combining the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright, citrusy flavor of orange. Perfectly moist and topped with a creamy orange glaze, this bread is an excellent addition to breakfast, brunch, or dessert spreads. Ideal for the holiday season or any time of year, this bread is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Bread:

1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (165 grams)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (85 grams)
1 cup sugar (200 grams)
2 tablespoons orange zest
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream (60 grams)
1/4 cup orange juice (60 ml)
1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries (150 grams), mixed with 2 teaspoons flour

For the Orange Glaze:

4 tablespoons cream cheese, room temperature (56 grams)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (28 grams)
1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted (62 grams)
2 tablespoons orange juice (or more as needed)
2 tablespoons orange zest for decoration

Directions

To Make the Bread:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan with butter or oil and line with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and optional cardamom. Set aside.
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat butter, sugar, and orange zest for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Mix in sour cream until smooth.
Gradually add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix on low speed. Pour in the orange juice and mix. Add the remaining dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Fold the floured cranberries into the batter gently to avoid overmixing.
Pour 2/3 cup of plain batter (without cranberries) into the loaf pan and spread evenly. Add the cranberry batter on top and smooth the surface.
Bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

To Make the Glaze:

In a small bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and mix on low speed until incorporated.
Gradually add orange juice until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and garnish with orange zest and optional sugared cranberries.

Nutrients

Per Slice (Approximate Values for 10 Slices):

Calories: 290
Protein: ~4g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fats: ~12g
Sugar: ~25g
Fiber: ~2g

This Orange Cranberry Bread is a crowd-pleaser that combines a soft, moist crumb with tangy cranberries and a vibrant orange glaze. It’s perfect for gifting, entertaining, or simply enjoying a slice with your morning coffee.

The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Tart

What sets Orange Cranberry Bread apart is its harmonious balance of sweetness and tartness. The natural tartness of fresh cranberries is perfectly countered by the bright, citrusy sweetness of oranges. The use of orange zest and juice not only adds flavor but also enhances the aroma, making this bread a sensory delight. The addition of the glaze further elevates the flavor profile, providing a creamy, sweet contrast to the tart cranberries.

A Moist and Tender Crumb

The texture of this bread is one of its standout features. The inclusion of sour cream in the batter contributes to its moist, tender crumb. Sour cream’s rich and tangy nature helps to keep the bread soft without making it overly dense. Additionally, the careful combination of wet and dry ingredients ensures a perfectly balanced batter that bakes evenly, resulting in a loaf that is both fluffy and satisfying.

The Role of Cranberries in the Recipe

Cranberries are not just a seasonal fruit; they are a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, they bring a healthy twist to this indulgent treat. Fresh cranberries, when folded into the batter, burst during baking, creating pockets of tart juiciness that enhance the bread’s flavor. To prevent the cranberries from sinking to the bottom, they are tossed with a small amount of flour before being added to the batter, ensuring even distribution.

The Citrus Magic of Oranges

Oranges are a key player in this recipe, providing both flavor and aroma. The orange zest adds a concentrated citrusy kick, while the orange juice lends moisture and sweetness to the bread. Together, they create a vibrant flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully. The orange glaze is the finishing touch, adding a luscious, creamy layer that ties all the flavors together.

A Versatile Treat for Any Occasion

One of the great things about Orange Cranberry Bread is its versatility. Here are some ways you can enjoy this delightful loaf:

Holiday Brunch: Serve slices of this bread alongside other breakfast staples for a festive spread.
Gifting: Wrap the loaf in decorative paper or place it in a festive tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Dessert: Pair a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Everyday Treat: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack.

Creative Variations to Explore

This recipe is a wonderful base for experimentation. Here are some ideas to customize your Orange Cranberry Bread:

Add Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
Swap the Glaze: Replace the orange glaze with a simple vanilla glaze or even a cream cheese frosting for a different twist.
Use Dried Cranberries: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, dried cranberries can be used. Soak them in orange juice beforehand to plump them up.
Make It Mini: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans for individual-sized portions that are perfect for gifting.
Go Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

The Importance of Presentation

The presentation of Orange Cranberry Bread is almost as important as its flavor. The vibrant red cranberries against the golden-orange hue of the bread create a visually appealing loaf. The orange glaze, with its glossy finish, adds an element of sophistication. Garnishing with sugared cranberries or a sprinkle of orange zest takes the presentation to the next level, making it look as if it came straight from a bakery.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Orange Cranberry Bread turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense loaf. Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the bread is done. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.
Cool Before Glazing: Allow the bread to cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting and sliding off.
Store Properly: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Health Benefits in Every Bite

While this bread is undoubtedly a treat, it also contains ingredients that offer nutritional benefits:

Cranberries: High in antioxidants, they help combat inflammation and support immune health.
Oranges: Rich in vitamin C, they boost immunity and promote healthy skin.
Sour Cream: Provides protein and calcium, contributing to bone health.
Butter: A source of vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.

Conclusion: A Festive Favorite for All Seasons

Orange Cranberry Bread is a true crowd-pleaser that combines the best of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors in every bite. Its moist texture, vibrant colors, and delightful taste make it a standout choice for holiday celebrations, family gatherings, or quiet mornings at home. The addition of the orange glaze adds a luxurious touch, making it as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.

This bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of flavors and the joy of baking. Whether you’re gifting it to loved ones, serving it at a festive brunch, or simply treating yourself, Orange Cranberry Bread is sure to become a cherished part of your recipe collection. Give it a try, and let its festive charm bring warmth and sweetness to your table.