Delightful Cranberry Orange Loaf

The air is filled with a cozy aroma that dances between tart cranberries and zesty oranges. As you slice into the warm loaf, the bright colors and scents beckon you to take a bite of happiness.

this Recipes

Picture this: a chilly morning where the only thing on your mind is warmth and comfort, and this buttery Cranberry Orange Loaf magically appears on your kitchen counter. It’s the kind of treat that wraps you in a cozy embrace and brings smiles all around.

Everyone who tries this recipe can’t help but smile as they savor each moist slice bursting with flavor.

Essential Ingredients

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

• • Fresh Cranberries: Opt for firm cranberries; they should be bright and glossy for maximum tartness.
  • Oranges: Use juicy oranges for zesting and juicing; their fragrance adds incredible depth to the loaf.
  • Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the loaf perfectly; consider brown sugar for extra moisture.
  • All-Purpose Flour: A staple in most kitchens; it provides structure to our delightful creation.
  • Baking Powder: This magical ingredient makes your loaf rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
  • Salt: Just a pinch balances out the sweetness; don’t skip it.
  • Eggs: They help bind everything together and add richness.
  • Unsalted Butter: Choose high-quality butter for a rich flavor; melt it before mixing.
  • Milk: Adds moisture; opt for whole milk for creaminess.
  • Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances flavors; use pure extract if possible.

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). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously with butter or nonstick spray for easy removal later on.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of ingredients before we get messy.

Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, orange juice, and zest. Stir gently until just mixed—no need to overdo it here.

Add Cranberries: Fold in those beautiful fresh cranberries carefully. The goal is to keep them intact while distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Pour into Pan: Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan smoothly; don’t forget to scrape every last bit from the bowl—those are delicious morsels waiting to be baked.

Bake to Perfection: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Enjoy that heavenly aroma wafting through your home.

Now you have one scrumptious Cranberry Orange Loaf ready to impress. Whether it’s breakfast or snack time at work or home—it’s sure to be a hit.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by mixing dry ingredients before creaming butter and sugar. Incorporate eggs gradually, then fold in cranberries and orange zest for a flavorful explosion.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. You can also experiment with different citrus zest to personalize the flavor profile of your loaf.

Storing & Reheating

Store the loaf wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually and reheat in a toaster oven.

Baking my first Cranberry Orange Loaf brought back memories of holiday gatherings filled with laughter, delicious food, and family bonding over warm treats fresh out of the oven.

FAQ

What should I do if my loaf is too dense?

Try reducing the mixing time or check that your baking powder is fresh.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, just toss them in flour before adding to prevent clumping in the batter.

How can I enhance the orange flavor?

Add a teaspoon of orange extract or more zest for an intense citrus punch.

Print

Cranberry Orange Loaf

Save Recipe Recipe Saved

Save Recipe Recipe Saved

Cranberry Orange Loaf is a delightful treat that harmoniously blends sweet and tart flavors, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert. Its moist texture and vibrant aroma will brighten any occasion.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: About 10 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• Fresh cranberries
• Juicy oranges (zest and juice)
• Granulated sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Eggs
• Unsalted butter
• Milk
• Vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, orange juice, and zest until just combined.
4. Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients gently. Add cranberries and fold carefully.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown; a toothpick should come out clean.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. For more orange flavor, include a teaspoon of orange extract. Store leftovers wrapped in plastic at room temperature for up to three days or freeze individual slices.