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Cranberry Orange Bread

Cranberry Orange Bread
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Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful and easy-to-make loaf that perfectly balances tart cranberries with bright orange zest. Moist and tender with a slight crunch from the cranberries, this bread is ideal for breakfast, snacks, or festive occasions. Featuring simple pantry ingredients and versatile adaptations, it brings a cozy citrus-berry flavor to your kitchen any time of the year.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup sugar (or substitute with honey or maple syrup for a healthier version)
  • 1 tbsp fresh orange zest

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs (or 2 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 6 tbsp water for vegan option)
  • 1/3 cup melted butter or oil (use coconut oil for vegan option)
  • 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk (dairy-free milk alternative for vegan version)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch
  • Optional: splash of fresh orange juice or lemon zest for extra citrus brightness

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Measure all ingredients carefully and zest the orange, avoiding the bitter white pith.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend), baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and orange zest, ensuring even distribution.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with melted butter (or oil), milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
  4. Bring It All Together: Slowly fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently just until combined to prevent toughness. Then gently fold in the cranberries, being careful not to break them up. Add nuts or extra citrus if desired.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Always zest fresh oranges for the brightest aroma and flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and fluffy.
  • Toss cranberries in a little flour before folding in to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
  • Avoid opening the oven door within the first 30 minutes of baking to ensure even rising.
  • For an extra touch, brush the cooled bread with a sugar glaze mixed with orange juice for added shine and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry orange bread, cranberry bread, citrus bread, holiday bread, gluten free bread, easy bread recipe, breakfast bread

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/cranberry-orange-bread/