Cranberry Orange Loaf

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

March 4, 2025

Updated:

March 4, 2025

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The sweet aroma of freshly baked cranberry orange loaf wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Each slice offers a delightful balance of tart cranberries and zesty oranges that dance on your taste buds. Imagine biting into this moist loaf, where every crumb tells a story of warmth and comfort.

This recipe has been a staple in my family for years, with memories of baking it together during the holidays. The laughter and joy shared over warm slices topped with butter make every bite feel extra special. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying it as an afternoon snack, this loaf brings people together.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This cranberry orange loaf is incredibly easy to whip up in one bowl
The bright flavors make it a showstopper at any gathering
It’s visually stunning with its vibrant colors and makes your kitchen smell heavenly while baking
Perfect as a breakfast treat or an afternoon pick-me-up

The first time I made this loaf, my friends thought I had become a professional baker overnight.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

All-Purpose Flour: Choose unbleached flour for better flavor; it helps create that perfect tender crumb.
Granulated Sugar: Sweeten the loaf just right; adjust sweetness based on your preference.
Baking Powder: Ensure freshness for maximum rise; check expiration dates before using.
Salt: Enhances flavor; use fine sea salt for even distribution throughout the batter.
Eggs: Vital for binding; room temperature eggs mix better into the batter.
Milk: Adds moisture; opt for whole milk for richness or any non-dairy alternative you prefer.
Fresh Oranges: Zest and juice them for ultimate flavor; fresh produces the best aroma.
Cranberries: Use fresh or frozen; if using frozen, do not thaw to maintain texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; melt it slightly but don’t allow it to cool completely.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Enjoy the light dust cloud that forms.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together eggs, milk, melted butter, orange zest, and juice until frothy. That citrus aroma will instantly brighten your mood.

Combine Mixtures Gently: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until everything is moistened. Avoid overmixing; we want that tender texture.

Add Cranberries Carefully: Fold in fresh or frozen cranberries gently with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Their bright pop will delight everyone.

Bake It Up: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in your preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes. The top should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Now you have created your very own delightful cranberry orange loaf. Let it cool slightly before slicing—if you can resist eating it all at once.

You Must Know

This delightful cranberry orange loaf is not just a treat for the taste buds; it fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma
The combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges creates a festive mood, perfect for family gatherings or cozy mornings

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you mix the batter, then chop the cranberries and zest the oranges. This sequence keeps everything moving smoothly and ensures your loaf rises perfectly.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to substitute cranberries with blueberries or add nuts for extra crunch. You can even experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique flavor twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cranberry orange loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap, then reheat in the oven for warmth and freshness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure this cranberry orange loaf turns out perfectly every time, be cautious with measuring ingredients
Too much flour can lead to a dense loaf
Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean

Sharing this recipe has been such joy. I remember my first attempt when friends devoured it before I could even snap a picture. Their smiles made me realize how special this loaf truly is.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries for my cranberry orange loaf?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just don’t thaw them beforehand to maintain texture.

How can I make my cranberry orange loaf moist?

Adding yogurt or sour cream can significantly increase moisture without compromising flavor.

What’s the best way to serve cranberry orange loaf?

Serve it warm with butter or cream cheese spread for a delicious breakfast treat.