Introduction
Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful, sweet, and tangy treat that combines the fruity flavors of fresh cranberries and zesty oranges. This bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. The combination of the tart cranberries and the refreshing citrus makes it a unique addition to any recipe collection. Enjoy it plain, or toast a slice to enhance its flavors even more.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– All-purpose flour: 2 cups
– Granulated sugar: 1 cup
– Baking powder: 1 tablespoon
– Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
– Salt: ½ teaspoon
– Orange zest: 1 tablespoon
– Fresh cranberries: 1 cup (chopped)
– Egg: 1 large
– Orange juice: ½ cup
– Milk: ½ cup
– Vegetable oil: ⅓ cup
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 10 slices)
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure that the oven is fully heated before placing the bread inside for even baking.
Prepare Baking Pan
Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent the bread from sticking. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the granulated sugar, orange juice, and melted butter. Mix the ingredients until they are smooth and fully incorporated.
Mix Ingredients Together
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to over-mix, as this can affect the texture of the bread.
Add Cranberries and Zest
Fold in the cranberries and orange zest into the batter. Ensure they are evenly distributed without over-mixing the batter.
Pour Batter into Pan
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly.
Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Storage
Store the cranberry orange bread at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for a longer shelf life.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
Substitutions
You can use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries, and if you prefer a sweeter bread, consider increasing the sugar slightly.
Variations
Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added flavor and texture.
