Orange Cranberry Bread

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Moist, tender, and bursting with the tangy zip of cranberries balanced by bright citrus, this Orange Cranberry Bread is everything you crave in a comforting baked treat. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy breakfast, holiday brunch, or afternoon snack, it hits all the right notes with its sweet-tart flavor and dense, buttery crumb.

The vibrant cranberries add festive pops of color and tart bursts in every bite, while the orange zest and juice infuse the loaf with irresistible brightness. It’s the kind of quick bread that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, perfect for gifting, entertaining, or just savoring with your favorite cup of tea.

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What Kind of Orange Should I Use?

For the boldest flavor, go with fresh navel oranges or cara cara oranges. Their zest is fragrant and their juice adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the cranberries. Avoid bottled juice—it lacks the citrusy punch that makes this loaf so special.

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Ingredients for the Orange Cranberry Bread

All-purpose flour: This gives the bread structure and a tender bite without being too dense.

Baking powder & baking soda: These leavening agents help the loaf rise and stay light.

Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the tart fruit.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the golden crust.

Eggs: Bind the batter and give the bread its rich texture.

Orange zest & orange juice: The star ingredients! They provide natural citrus flavor and moisture.

Buttermilk: Adds tenderness and a slight tang that complements the orange.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel.

Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with warm, aromatic depth.

Fresh or frozen cranberries: The tart contrast to the sweet bread. If frozen, no need to thaw first.

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How To Make the Orange Cranberry Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want the oven fully heated to ensure even baking from the start.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry mixture into the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice and buttermilk. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 5: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold the cranberries into the batter. If you’re using frozen berries, toss them with a tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

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How to Serve and Store Orange Cranberry Bread

Slice thick and serve slightly warm with a smear of butter or a dusting of powdered sugar. It also pairs beautifully with a citrus glaze if you’re craving extra sweetness.

To store, wrap tightly in plastic or place in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

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What to Serve With Orange Cranberry Bread?

Fresh Fruit Salad

The juicy, refreshing flavors of melons, grapes, and pineapple balance the tartness of the bread.

Honey Yogurt Parfait

Creamy, slightly tangy yogurt with granola adds texture and makes it a more filling breakfast.

Scrambled Eggs and Bacon

Make it a hearty brunch with savory protein-packed sides.

Spiced Apple Cider

A warm mug of cider enhances the cinnamon-orange flavors in the bread.

Brie or Cream Cheese

For a fancy twist, spread a soft cheese over a warm slice.

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Want More Bread Ideas with a Twist?

If this Orange Cranberry Bread caught your attention, you’ll want to explore these comforting, crowd-pleasing options next:

• Apple Fritter Bread Recipe for a cinnamon-sugar apple indulgence.
• Pineapple Condensed Milk Cake with tropical sweetness in every bite.
• Hawaiian Banana Bread with pineapple and coconut flair.
• Creamy Cranberry Salad for a no-bake, festive fruit option.
• Cranberry Orange Relish to use up any leftover cranberries creatively.

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Save This Pin For Later

Tuck this recipe onto your Pinterest board so it’s right where you need it next time the craving strikes.

Put your own spin on it with a citrus glaze, chopped pecans, or a drizzle of white chocolate. Let me know how yours turned out in the comments below!

For even more daily inspiration from my kitchen, follow along on Pinterest: Mydelicioushomerecipes.

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