Name: Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Bread:; 2 cups all purpose flour; 1½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp Baking Soda; 1 cup granulated sugar; 5 tbsp butter; 1 egg; ¾ cup buttermilk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups cranberries; 2 tsp orange zest; Cooking spray; For Glaze:; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1½ tbsp orange juice

Craft a dazzling treat with this flavorful Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread recipe. Harness the tangy succulence of cranberries paired with a citrusy zing of fresh orange zest that comes together in a deliciously moist bread. The sweet, aromatic glaze elevates the dessert, making it a must-try recipe during the holiday season or as a perfect companion for your afternoon tea.

Photos of Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe

This recipe calls for a few ingredients that might not be readily available in your pantry. These include buttermilk and fresh cranberries. Buttermilk aids in giving the bread a tender, light crumb. Fresh cranberries, on the other hand, provide a tart flavor contrast. You can find these ingredients in the dairy and produce sections, respectively, of your local supermarket. Also, if you don't have any orange zest on hand, remember to pick up oranges during your supermarket visit.

Ingredients for Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread

Flour: Forms the base of the bread and provides structure.

Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that help the bread rise.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the bread.

Butter: Adds moisture and flavor.

Egg: Provides structure and helps in binding the ingredients together.

Buttermilk: Makes the bread tender and moist.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.

Cranberries: Adds a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the bread.

Orange zest: Gives a fresh and tangy flavor.

Cooking spray: Used to grease the pan to prevent sticking.

Powdered sugar: Used to make the sweet glaze.

Orange juice: Adds citrusy tang to the glaze.

One reader, Dwain Dalrymple says:

This orange-glazed cranberry bread recipe is a game-changer! The bread is moist and bursting with cranberry and orange flavors. The glaze adds a delightful sweetness. It's a hit with my family and friends. I love how easy it is to make, and it's perfect for any occasion. Highly recommended!

Dwain Dalrymple

Key Techniques for Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe

How to prepare the bread batter: Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl, then add the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Toss the cranberries with flour before adding them to the batter, along with the orange zest, and gently stir until just mixed.

How to bake the bread: Pour the batter into a prepared loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees F for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

How to make the glaze: Combine powdered sugar and orange juice in a bowl and stir until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and let it set before slicing and serving.

How To Make Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread

Serve your cup of tea with a slice of this cranberry bread. It’s baked with fresh berries, buttermilk, and orange zest, then topped with a sweet glaze.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Bread:

2cupsall purpose flour,plus more to toss with cranberries
1½tspbaking powder
½tspbaking soda
1cupgranulated sugar
5tbspbutter,melted
1egg
¾cupbuttermilk
1tspvanilla extract
2cupscranberries,fresh or frozen
2tsporange zest
cooking spray

For Glaze:

1cuppowdered sugar
1½tbsporange juice

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.

Bread:

Place the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Whisk to combine.
Add the butter, egg, buttermilk, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
Toss the cranberries with 1 tablespoon of flour. Add the cranberries and orange zest to the batter and gently stir until just mixed.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Run a thin knife along the edges of the pan to loosen the bread. Let the bread cool for 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a cooling rack. Let cool completely.

Glaze:

Place the powdered sugar and orange juice in a bowl and stir until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the bread.
Let the glaze set, then slice and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 304.76kcal
Fat: 7.82g
Saturated Fat: 4.00g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.49g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.76g
Carbohydrates: 55.52g
Fiber: 1.74g
Sugar: 33.80g
Protein: 3.90g
Cholesterol: 32.00mg
Sodium: 161.55mg
Calcium: 83.01mg
Potassium: 87.63mg
Iron: 1.40mg
Vitamin A: 58.99µg
Vitamin C: 4.82mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread

When tossing the cranberries in flour before adding them to the batter, make sure to shake off any excess flour. This will ensure that the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the bread and do not sink to the bottom during baking. Additionally, when zesting the orange, be careful to only get the outermost layer of the peel, as the white pith underneath can be bitter.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Cranberry Bread

Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all your ingredients before starting. This will save time and make the process smoother.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly mix the batter and chop the cranberries, saving time and effort.

Bake multiple loaves: Consider doubling the recipe and baking multiple loaves to have extra for later or to share with friends and family.

Freeze extra: If you have leftover bread, slice it and freeze the slices for a quick and easy breakfast or snack option.

Quick glaze: Opt for a simple drizzle of orange juice and powdered sugar instead of a more complex glaze to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe

all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the bread.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder by adding an acid like buttermilk to activate it.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and moisture to the bread.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a hint of coconut flavor.
buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can provide the same tangy flavor and moisture to the bread.
cranberries - Substitute with blueberries: Blueberries can provide a similar burst of tartness and color to the bread.
orange zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can provide a similar citrusy flavor and aroma to the bread.
powdered sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a natural sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the glaze.

How to Beautifully Present Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread

Elevate the bread with a decorative garnish: Add a touch of elegance to the presentation by garnishing the bread with fresh cranberries and a sprinkle of orange zest. This will create a visually appealing and inviting presentation that will impress the judges.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle the orange glaze in a precise and artistic manner, ensuring that it enhances the visual appeal of the bread without overwhelming the flavors. The glaze should be delicately applied to create a beautiful and professional finish.
Utilize a sophisticated serving platter: Present the orange-glazed cranberry bread on a sleek, modern serving platter that complements the vibrant colors of the cranberries and the citrusy aroma of the orange zest. The choice of platter should exude sophistication and refinement.
Emphasize precision in slicing: Carefully slice the bread into uniform, elegant portions, ensuring that each slice showcases the vibrant cranberries and the delicate crumb texture. Precision in slicing demonstrates attention to detail and culinary expertise.
Incorporate complementary accompaniments: Pair the orange-glazed cranberry bread with a side of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to add a touch of indulgence to the presentation. The accompaniments should complement the flavors of the bread and elevate the overall dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making This Cranberry Bread Recipe

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food.
9x5-inch loaf pan: A baking pan with specific dimensions used for making bread loaves.
Cooking spray: A non-stick cooking spray used to coat baking pans and prevent food from sticking.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients together.
Large bowl: A container used for mixing and combining ingredients for recipes.
Thin knife: A sharp knife used for slicing and cutting delicate items.
Cooling rack: A metal rack used to cool baked goods and allow air to circulate around them.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to accurately measure ingredients for recipes.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting and turning food items.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients for recipes.
Baking pan: A pan used for baking various dishes, such as bread, cakes, and casseroles.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle used for making sauces and heating liquids.
Spoon: A utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving food.
Oven mitts: Insulated gloves used to protect hands when handling hot dishes and cookware.

Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Cranberry Bread

Let the orange-glazed cranberry bread cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from forming and making the bread soggy.
Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Store the wrapped bread at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep the bread fresh for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the orange-glazed cranberry bread for up to 2-3 months.
To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen bread at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
If you prefer a warm bread, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
If the glaze becomes sticky or melts during storage, you can drizzle a fresh batch of glaze over the bread before serving.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Cranberry Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover orange-glazed cranberry bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the glaze is melted and glistening. This method will help to restore the bread's texture and keep it moist.
If you prefer a softer crust, wrap the bread in a damp paper towel before wrapping it in foil. This will help to steam the bread and keep it from drying out during the reheating process.
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave to reheat individual slices of orange-glazed cranberry bread. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 15-20 seconds, or until it's warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat the bread, as it can become tough and rubbery.
If you want to refresh the glaze on your leftover cranberry bread, mix together a small batch of the orange juice and powdered sugar glaze and drizzle it over the reheated bread. This will give it a fresh, zesty flavor and a beautiful shine.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat slices of orange-glazed cranberry bread in a toaster oven or under the broiler. Keep a close eye on the bread to ensure it doesn't burn, and remove it from the heat once the glaze is bubbling and the edges are lightly toasted.

Interesting Trivia About Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread

The orange-glazed cranberry bread recipe is a delightful combination of tart cranberries and sweet orange glaze. This bread is a perfect treat for breakfast or as a snack. The orange zest adds a refreshing citrus flavor, complementing the juicy cranberries. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of cranberries and orange in a delicious and moist bread.

Evaluating the Cost-Effectiveness of Homemade Cranberry Bread

This orange-glazed cranberry bread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as flour, sugar, butter, and cranberries, are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of buttermilk, orange juice, and zest adds a touch of luxury without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, this recipe earns a solid 8 out of 10 for its affordability and delightful flavor.

Is This Cranberry Bread Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This orange-glazed cranberry bread recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The bread contains a significant amount of sugar and butter, which are high in calories and saturated fat. Additionally, the recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the nutrients found in whole grain flours. The glaze also adds extra sugar to the bread, further increasing its calorie content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Reduce the amount of sugar in the bread by 1/4 to 1/2 cup, as the cranberries and orange zest will provide natural sweetness
Use unsalted butter and reduce the amount by 2-3 tablespoons, or replace it with a healthier alternative like coconut oil or Greek yogurt
Substitute the buttermilk with low-fat buttermilk or a mixture of low-fat milk and lemon juice
Decrease the amount of powdered sugar in the glaze or omit it altogether, as the bread will still be flavorful without it

If you want to make this recipe even healthier, you could:

Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to increase the protein and healthy fat content
Include 1/4 cup of ground flaxseed or chia seeds to boost the omega-3 fatty acids and fiber
Experiment with using a sugar substitute, like stevia or erythritol, to reduce the calorie content further
Top the bread with a sprinkle of unsweetened shredded coconut for added texture and flavor without extra sugar

Editor's Opinion on the Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe

The orange-glazed cranberry bread recipe is a delightful combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The bread is moist and tender, with a beautiful crumb texture. The orange glaze adds a sweet and citrusy finish, elevating the overall taste experience. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it suitable for both novice and experienced bakers. It's a wonderful treat for any occasion, whether enjoyed with a cup of tea in the afternoon or served as a delightful dessert.

Enhance Your Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for complementing the tangy sweetness of the orange-glazed cranberry bread.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cranberry bread.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts drizzled with a balsamic glaze, adding a savory and slightly tangy element to balance the sweetness of the cranberry bread.

Delicious Alternatives to Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These garlic parmesan roasted brussels sprouts are a delicious and healthy side dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The crispy outer leaves and tender center make for the perfect texture, while the garlic and parmesan add a burst of flavor.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert that is perfect for a light and satisfying treat. The combination of sweet mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutrient-rich chia seeds creates a delicious and guilt-free indulgence.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with This Cranberry Bread Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil: Elevate a classic appetizer by topping crispy slices of baguette with a fresh mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic glaze. This colorful and flavorful dish is sure to impress your guests.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and rich pasta dish featuring tender chicken and al dente fettuccine, all coated in a luscious Alfredo sauce.

Beef Stroganoff: Savor the comforting flavors of tender beef strips, savory mushrooms, and tangy sour cream, all served over a bed of buttery egg noodles.

Why trust this Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe:

This recipe uses fresh cranberries and orange zest to create a flavorful and festive bread. The combination of buttermilk and butter ensures a moist and tender texture, while the orange glaze adds a delightful citrusy sweetness. The use of baking powder and baking soda guarantees a perfect rise, and the addition of vanilla extract enhances the overall aroma. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the careful balance of flavors to create a delightful and satisfying bread experience.

Want to share your experience baking this delightful Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe? Join our Baking and Desserts forum to discuss tips, tricks, and your own twist on this delicious treat!

FAQ:

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter.

Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk. Simply add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using it in the recipe.

How should I store the orange-glazed cranberry bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I omit the glaze?

Yes, you can omit the glaze if you prefer. The bread is delicious on its own, or you can dust it with powdered sugar before serving.

Can I use orange extract instead of orange juice for the glaze?

Yes, you can use orange extract instead of orange juice for the glaze. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, as orange extract is more concentrated than orange juice.