A Delightful Festive Treat

This Cranberry Orange Bread is the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, ideal for your holiday gatherings or as a cozy treat any time of year. The combination of fresh cranberries and bright orange zest creates a delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen, making it an inviting space for family and friends. Whether you serve it as a breakfast option or a snack with tea, it’s sure to impress! Plus, this recipe is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Enjoy this moist, flavorful bread that combines the joys of the season into every bite! 💖🍊

⏱️ Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 10

📝 Ingredients List

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup fresh cranberries, halved
1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
1/2 cup orange juice
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups & spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Loaf pan
Zester (for the orange)
Oven

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the orange zest and orange juice until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until moistened.
Fold in the halved cranberries and nuts (if using).
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy! 😋🍞

💡 Pro Tips Section

Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Substitutions: Feel free to replace cranberries with dried cranberries or even blueberries for a different flavor!
Meal Prep: This bread can be made ahead; bake it a day or two in advance and keep it wrapped until serving.
Serving Ideas: Serve slices warm with a bit of butter, or toast them for added crunch and flavor!

📊 Nutrition Table

| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|————–|———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——-|
| 1 slice | 420 | 18g | 35g | 22g | 4g | 6g |

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! You can use frozen cranberries without thawing them first. Just toss them in a little flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the batter.

2. How can I make this gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

3. What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.

4. Can I make mini loaves instead?
Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time to around 30-35 minutes for mini loaves. Check them for doneness with a toothpick.