There’s something so comforting about the sweet and tangy aroma of freshly baked Orange Cranberry Bread filling your home. This recipe combines the brightness of citrus with the tartness of cranberries, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.

I first discovered this recipe during a holiday baking spree, and it quickly became a family favorite. Whether served as a breakfast treat, a snack with tea, or a festive dessert, this bread never fails to impress. Let’s dive in and explore why you’ll love it as much as we do.

Why You'll Love This Orange Cranberry Bread

Get ready to add a new star to your baking repertoire. Orange Cranberry Bread is not just delicious – it’s the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and refreshing flavors.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With no complicated steps or fancy techniques, even beginner bakers can whip this up in no time.

The flavor is truly out of this world. The fresh orange zest and juice give the bread a vibrant citrus kick, while the cranberries add a tart contrast that balances everything beautifully.

This recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. Serve it as part of a holiday brunch, bring it to a potluck, or enjoy it as an afternoon snack.

Lastly, it’s a healthier option compared to many other sweet treats. With fresh ingredients and less sugar than typical desserts, you can indulge without guilt.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Orange Cranberry Bread lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering the perfect flavor and texture.

Fresh orange zest and juice are the stars of this recipe. They infuse the bread with a bright, citrusy aroma and taste. Be sure to use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best results.

Cranberries provide that signature tartness. You can use fresh or frozen cranberries, but if using frozen, don’t thaw them beforehand to prevent excess moisture.

All-purpose flour forms the base of the bread. Make sure to measure it correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid a dense loaf.

Granulated sugar sweetens the bread just enough without overpowering the natural flavors. You can also substitute part of the sugar with honey or a sugar alternative if you prefer.

Greek yogurt or sour cream adds moisture and richness to the batter, ensuring a tender crumb. Choose full-fat options for the best texture.

You’ll also need a loaf pan, mixing bowls, a whisk, and a zester or microplane for the orange zest.

How To Make This Orange Cranberry Bread

Baking this Orange Cranberry Bread is a straightforward process that delivers stunning results every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a standard loaf pan. This ensures the bread releases easily after baking.

In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients – flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the batter.

In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients. Whisk together orange zest, orange juice, sugar, eggs, and Greek yogurt or sour cream until smooth. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.

Gently stir in the cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

The result? A golden-brown loaf that’s bursting with citrus and cranberry goodness, ready to slice and enjoy.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this bread stores beautifully.

At room temperature, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container for up to three days.

For longer storage, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week. The chilled slices taste especially refreshing with a warm beverage.

To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before enjoying.

Variations and Substitutions

This Orange Cranberry Bread is wonderfully adaptable to suit your preferences.

For a nutty twist, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. The crunch pairs beautifully with the soft crumb.

Want a little extra sweetness? Sprinkle turbinado sugar or a light glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice on top before serving.

If you’re avoiding dairy, swap out the Greek yogurt or sour cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s designed for baking.

Experiment with dried cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Soak them in orange juice for 10 minutes beforehand to plump them up.

This recipe is your canvas – don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!