Name: Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (plus 1/2 Tbsp for cranberries); 1 tsp baking powder; 0.25 tsp salt; 0.25 cups milk (room temperature); 1 large orange (zest divided); 0.25 cups orange juice (freshly squeezed); 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened); 0.75 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1.5 cups fresh cranberries (rinsed and patted dry); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1.5 Tbsp orange juice (or to reach desired consistency); 1 tsp orange zest (reserved from the above orange)

Introduction to Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

When it comes to comforting baked goods, homemade cranberry bread with orange glaze is truly a game changer. Imagine the aroma of fresh cranberries and zesty orange wafting through your kitchen as you whip up this delightful loaf. Not only is it perfect for the holidays, but it's also an exquisite treat for any gathering, breakfast table, or even as a thoughtful gift for friends.

Why homemade cranberry bread is a game changer

There’s something uniquely satisfying about baking from scratch. You have control over the ingredients, and you can adjust flavors to your liking. Using fresh cranberries adds a burst of tartness that elevates the bread, while the orange glaze brings a sweet and citrusy finish that balances it beautifully. The combination of flavors makes each bite a joy!

Moreover, homemade cranberry bread is an opportunity to gather friends or family in the kitchen, sharing stories and laughter as you mix, pour, and bake. It’s not just about the final product; it’s about the experience. Plus, nothing beats the taste of a warm slice slathered with butter right out of the oven! Whether enjoyed solo or shared, this vibrant bread is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

Ready to get baking? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Essential Ingredients for the Bread

To create your delicious Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze, you’ll need some essential ingredients that are simple yet effective. Gather the following:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your bread.
1 teaspoon baking powder: For that lovely rise!
¼ teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance the flavors.
¼ cup milk: Make sure it’s at room temperature for better mixing.
Zest of 1 large orange: Freshly grated zest brings a bright citrus flavor.
¼ cup orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best for optimal taste.
6 tablespoon unsalted butter: Softened, to add richness.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Just the right amount for sweetness.
2 large eggs: Room temperature for easy incorporation.
1 ½ cups fresh cranberries: These will give a tart contrast to the sweet glaze.

Ingredients for the Orange Glaze

The crowning glory of this bread is the zesty orange glaze. You'll need:

1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the glaze.
1 ½ tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice: Adjust to get your desired consistency.
1 teaspoon orange zest: Reserved from the initial preparation for that extra zing.

With these ingredients on hand, you'll be well on your way to baking a delightful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack! If you're interested in incorporating even more seasonal flavors, check out this orange zest tutorial for tips on zesting like a pro.

Step-by-step Preparation of Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Creating a delightful loaf of Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze is simpler than you might think! Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring you achieve a delicious, aromatic bread that’s perfect for breakfast or any time of day.

Preheat the oven and prepare the pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your bread bakes evenly and beautifully. While the oven warms up, grab a 6-cup loaf pan and generously butter it, then dust with flour to prevent sticking. Tapping out the excess flour will ensure a lovely crust on your bread.

Mix the dry ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients for your bread:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt

Setting these aside for now means they’ll come together seamlessly when you mix them with the wet ingredients later.

Combine wet ingredients

In a measuring cup, combine ¼ cup of milk (preferably at room temperature), the zest from one large orange (saving 1 teaspoon for the glaze), and ¼ cup of freshly squeezed orange juice. This mix will add a lovely flavor to your bread, giving it that citrus zing!

Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, cream together 6 tablespoon of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes. You’re looking for a light and fluffy texture. Beat in 2 large, room-temperature eggs until they are well incorporated.

Combine wet and dry mixtures

Add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture in two parts, alternating with the milk mixture. Mix on medium-low speed until just combined—this is not the time to overmix! Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Fold in cranberries and bake

Toss your fresh cranberries (1 ½ cups) with ½ tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking, then gently fold them into the batter. Carefully spread the mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the orange glaze

While your bread is baking, it’s time to prepare the zesty orange glaze. In a separate bowl, stir together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1 ½ tablespoon of freshly squeezed orange juice and the reserved 1 teaspoon of orange zest. Mix until smooth, adjusting with more orange juice or powdered sugar to achieve your desired drizzling consistency.

Cool and glaze the bread

Once your Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze has baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Use a knife to gently run along the edges and transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, drizzle the orange glaze on top, allowing it to set before slicing into that beautiful loaf.

Now you are ready to enjoy your sweet, tangy, and utterly satisfying cranberry bread! It’s perfect for a cozy morning or as a lovely gift for friends. Happy baking!

Variations on Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Add-ins for a unique twist

To elevate your Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze, think about adding fun mix-ins! Consider tossing in chopped nuts for a crunchy texture or white chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. Dried fruits, like apricots or raisins, can also offer a delightful texture contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a cozy, spiced flavor.

Different glaze flavors

While the classic orange glaze is hard to beat, experimenting with other flavors can lead to delicious results! You might substitute almond extract for a nutty profile or use lemon juice for a refreshing twist. Even a drizzle of maple syrup can give your glaze an enticing depth. Mix it up—your taste buds will thank you!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Tips for Baking Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
Flour Measurement: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour accurately, promoting a tender crumb.
Baking Time: Start checking the bread at 45 minutes. Every oven varies, and a toothpick should come out clean when it’s perfect.

Important Notes to Enhance Flavor

Fresh Cranberries: Using fresh cranberries instead of dried boosts flavor and gives a delightful tartness. Feel free to add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.
Zest and Juice Balance: Adjust the glaze by gradually adding orange juice until you achieve a favorably sweet and tangy balance, enhancing your Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze.

By considering these tips, you'll whip up a scrumptious loaf that delights every palate! For more on cooking techniques, check out The Kitchn.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Best ways to enjoy this bread

The Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your breakfast or snack game by serving it with a dollop of cream cheese for added creaminess. Consider enjoying it alongside a hot cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee to balance its sweetness. It's perfect for sharing with friends during a cozy gathering or for indulging in a quiet moment to yourself.

Complementary items for serving

Pair this bread with:

Turkey bacon or chicken ham for a savory contrast.
A fruit salad featuring berries and citrus.
Smoothies made with spinach and banana for a refreshing kick.

These options enhance the flavors of the Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze, making for a delightful and well-rounded meal that you’ll want to revisit time and again!

Time Breakdown for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Preparation time
Getting started with your Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze involves about 15 minutes of preparation. This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing the batter, and preparing your pan.

Baking time
Once your loaf is in the oven, it will take around 45-50 minutes to bake to perfection, creating that irresistible aroma in your kitchen.

Total time
In total, you're looking at a lovely 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish before you can indulge in this delightful treat. Just enough time to enjoy a quick coffee break while it bakes!

For more kitchen tips and tricks, check out resources like the King Arthur Baking archives, where you can find extensive baking guides to enhance your skills!

Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Calories per serving

Each slice of this delicious Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze packs approximately 326 calories. Perfect for a treat without the guilt!

Key nutrients

This delightful bread is loaded with key nutrients, including:

56g Carbs: A great source of energy.
4g Protein: Contributes to muscle maintenance.
10g Fat: Helps keep you feeling satisfied.

For more detailed nutritional information, consider checking resources like MyFitnessPal or NutritionData. Enjoy every blissful bite of this festive loaf!

FAQs about Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Can I substitute fresh cranberries with dried ones?
Absolutely! While fresh cranberries give a tart burst of flavor, you can opt for dried cranberries in a pinch. Just remember to reduce the sugar slightly since dried cranberries are sweeter. A good rule of thumb is to use 1 cup of dried cranberries to replace the 1 ½ cups of fresh ones.

How should I store the finished bread?
To keep your Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze fresh and delicious, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare this bread ahead of time! It stays moist and flavorful, making it a perfect make-ahead option for holiday gatherings or brunches. Simply prepare it a day or two in advance, and let the glaze set before serving.

For more tips, check out The Spruce Eats and Taste of Home for additional baking inspiration!

Conclusion on Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze is a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion! The burst of fresh cranberries combined with the bright undertones of orange zest creates an irresistible flavor profile. Whether for breakfast or dessert, this bread is sure to impress friends and family. Happy baking!