Cranberry Orange Bread with Orange Glaze Recipe

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If you’re looking for a delightful treat that bursts with bright citrus and tart cranberry flavors, the Cranberry Orange Bread with Orange Glaze Recipe is a must-try. This aromatic, moist loaf livens up any meal or snack time with its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced notes. The luscious orange glaze on top makes every bite a little celebration, turning a simple bread into a showstopper that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Cranberry Orange Bread with Orange Glaze Recipe means gathering a handful of simple, yet magic-working ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the depth of flavor, pleasant texture, and stunning color that make this bread unforgettable.

• Sour cream: Adds richness and moisture, keeping the bread tender and soft.
• Orange zest: Brings vibrant citrus aroma and fresh flavor to every bite.
• Freshly squeezed orange juice: Provides bright acidity and a juicy burst that complements the cranberries perfectly.
• Vegetable oil: Helps keep the bread moist without overpowering the other flavors.
• All-purpose flour: The structure-builder that creates the perfect crumb.
• Salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional cardamom: Warm spices that add depth and subtle complexity.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that ensure a light, airy texture.
• Unsalted butter: Contributes to a rich mouthfeel and a golden crust.
• Granulated sugar and light brown sugar: Sweetness with a hint of caramel from the brown sugar.
• Large eggs: Provide structure and help emulsify the batter.
• Cranberries: Fresh and tart, they bring beautiful pops of color and flavor.
• Pecans: Add crunch and a nutty dimension that pairs wonderfully with the fruit.
• Sparkling sugar (optional): Gives a pretty sparkle and a touch of crunch on top.
• Confectioners’ sugar, fresh orange juice, and salt (for glaze): Combine to create a shiny, zesty glaze that crowns the loaf.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread with Orange Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spraying a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures your beautiful bread won’t stick and will come out perfectly shaped every time.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, finely grated orange zest, freshly squeezed orange juice, and vegetable oil. This mixture infuses the batter with moisture and a punch of citrus right from the start.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom (if using), baking powder, and baking soda. These dry ingredients bring in the structure, warming spices, and leavening power your bread needs.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer or handheld beaters, cream the softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar and packed light brown sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. This step aerates the butter, contributing to that tender crumb we all love.

Step 5: Add the Eggs

Add two large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition so the batter stays smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

On low speed, alternately add the dry ingredients in three parts and the wet mixture in two parts. Mix just until the ingredients come together—resist the urge to overmix, or your bread might turn out dense.

Step 7: Fold in Cranberries and Pecans

With a rubber spatula, gently fold the halved cranberries and coarsely chopped pecans into the batter, ensuring an even distribution without crushing the berries.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. If using, sprinkle sparkling sugar on top for an extra festive touch. Bake for 30 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue baking for about 45 minutes more, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then unmold onto a wire rack to cool completely—at least one hour. Prepare the glaze by combining sifted confectioners’ sugar, fresh orange juice, and a pinch of salt, adjusting for desired thickness. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and let it set for about 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bread with Orange Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

This bread looks stunning with a few extra cranberries and chopped pecans sprinkled on top before baking. For serving, a light dusting of powdered sugar or an extra drizzle of the orange glaze adds that final touch of sweetness and sparkle.

Side Dishes

Pair your cranberry orange bread with creamy spreads like honey butter or mascarpone for a luscious experience. It also makes a fantastic companion to your morning coffee or tea, or as a sweet finish to brunch alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the loaf into thick, hearty pieces and place them on a decorative platter with fresh sprigs of rosemary or orange slices for a festive vibe. You can also cut smaller cubes for a fun bread pudding idea, letting that wonderful orange glaze shine through in new forms.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover cranberry orange bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and moist for up to 3 days—perfect for enjoying as a snack or breakfast through the week.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

To enjoy warm slices, pop them in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. The orange glaze will soften slightly and release even more aroma, making each bite feel freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen cranberries can be used straight from the freezer. Just be sure to fold them in gently to prevent the batter from turning blueish, and your bread will still have that lovely tart burst.

Is it okay to omit the cardamom?

Absolutely! The cardamom adds a unique warm-spicy note, but the bread will still be delicious without it. Feel free to leave it out if you don’t have it on hand.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure it includes a binder like xanthan gum, or add it yourself, so the texture stays tender and cohesive.

How thick should the orange glaze be?

The glaze should be pourable but not too runny. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon more orange juice; if too thin, sprinkle in a bit more confectioners’ sugar. You want it to coat the bread’s surface beautifully without dripping off too much.

Can I double this recipe for two loaves?

Yes, doubling is straightforward and perfect for gift-giving or entertaining. Just double all ingredients and bake in two loaf pans. Check for doneness with a toothpick as bake times may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Cranberry Orange Bread with Orange Glaze Recipe that makes it a go-to for sharing warmth and joy in your kitchen. It’s a wonderful balance of cozy spices, bright citrus, and festive cranberries that come together in a loaf that’s both comforting and exciting. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved favorite on your baking list!

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