The aroma of freshly baked Cranberry Orange Loaf wafts through the air like an invitation to indulge in something exceptional. Imagine slicing into a golden crust that gives way to tender, moist bread studded with vibrant cranberries and the zesty brightness of oranges. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors that dances on your palate, making it hard to resist another slice.

Growing up, my grandmother whipped up this delightful treat every holiday season. It became a family tradition to gather around her kitchen as she revealed her secret recipe—her twinkling eyes would light up as we savored each bite together. This loaf isn’t just food; it’s a comforting hug from the past, best enjoyed with loved ones during chilly afternoons or festive gatherings.

Everyone in my family eagerly anticipates this loaf every holiday season; it has become our unofficial dessert mascot.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached all-purpose flour for the best texture; it creates a lovely crumb in the loaf.
• Granulated Sugar: Just the right amount sweetens without overpowering the citrus and tartness of cranberries.
• Baking Powder: This ingredient helps the loaf rise beautifully and gives it that delightful fluffiness.
• Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors; never underestimate salt’s magic in baked goods.
• Fresh Oranges: Use freshly grated zest for vibrant flavor; avoid bottled options if you can.
• Cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide that burst of tartness; frozen can work too if fresh aren’t available.
• Eggs: Use large eggs for binding and moisture—this will help create a tender crumb.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness and flavor; let it cool slightly before mixing into batter.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor profile, balancing sweetness and tanginess beautifully.
• Milk: Whole milk is preferred for moisture; feel free to use any milk you have on hand.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your batter. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. The mixture should look like a fluffy cloud inviting you to bake.

Add Wet Ingredients Slowly: In another bowl, whisk melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth. Pour this liquid gold into your dry ingredients gently—it’s like giving them a spa day.

Add Cranberries Gently: Carefully fold in fresh cranberries using a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Try not to overmix; we want those juicy gems intact.

Pour into Prepared Pan: Transfer your batter into the greased loaf pan. Smooth out the top with your spatula so it bakes evenly—think of it as giving it a nice hairstyle before sending it off into the oven.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly by now—just try not to eat all of it right away.

Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slice when cool enough to handle—you want those slices perfectly intact.

This Cranberry Orange Loaf isn’t just any quick bread; it’s an experience meant to be shared with good company or savored alone with a steaming cup of tea. Celebrate life’s little moments by indulging in its sweet-tart goodness.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing dry ingredients before adding wet ones to ensure even distribution and perfect texture.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and unexpected flavor bursts in every slice.

Storing & Reheating

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze it for longer freshness.

Cooking this cranberry orange loaf always reminds me of my grandma, who insisted that we could never have too much citrus in our lives.

FAQ

What makes cranberry orange loaf special?

The combination of tart cranberries and sweet oranges creates a unique flavor profile.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, but be aware they might make your loaf slightly more moist than fresh ones.

How do I know when the loaf is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cranberry orange loaf is ready.

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Cranberry Orange Loaf

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• Author: Ann Foster
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 10 slices

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Description

Cranberry Orange Loaf is a moist and flavorful quick bread that combines tart cranberries and zesty oranges, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying with your favorite beverage.

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Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour
• Granulated Sugar
• Baking Powder
• Salt
• Fresh Oranges (zest)
• Fresh Cranberries
• Eggs
• Unsalted Butter
• Vanilla Extract
• Milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently; fold in cranberries.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown; cool on a wire rack before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (40g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg