Cranberry Orange Bread

Published: November 22, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Cranberry Orange Bread

This incredible Cranberry Orange Bread transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cranberry Orange Bread:

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our bread; use unbleached for better flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread perfectly; adjust to taste if you prefer it less sweet.
Baking Powder: This helps our bread rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors; don’t skip it!
Unsalted Butter: For richness and moisture; melt it slightly before adding.
Eggs: Bind everything together and add fluffiness; large eggs work best.
Fresh Orange Zest: Adds a bright flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully.
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen; they provide a tart bite that balances the sweetness perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Cranberry Orange Bread:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed. This will create a uniform base for our batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Then whisk in the eggs and orange zest until combined. Feel free to channel your inner pastry chef during this step!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together until just combined—don’t overmix unless you want chewy bread instead of fluffy goodness!

Step 5: Add Cranberries

Fold in those beautiful cranberries gently so they’re evenly distributed throughout your batter. Just imagine how stunning those little ruby gems will look once baked.

Step 6: Bake Away

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The heavenly aroma will have everyone wandering into the kitchen asking what’s cooking!

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter or on its own—the choice is yours! Enjoy this scrumptious treat at breakfast or as an afternoon snack with tea; just be prepared to share (or not!).

You Must Know About Cranberry Orange Bread

This showstopping Cranberry Orange Bread delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your baking pan. Mix the dry ingredients first, then incorporate your wet ingredients while folding in the cranberries and orange zest last for maximum flavor distribution. Bake until golden brown for the best texture.

Flavor Your Way

Consider adding walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture, or swap orange zest with lemon zest for a different citrus twist. Dried cherries or blueberries can also add delicious depth to your Cranberry Orange Bread.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Cranberry Orange Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil, reheating them in the microwave or toaster oven as needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Cranberry Orange Bread

This professional-quality Cranberry Orange Bread relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my friend’s family gathering where I first presented this bread. The delighted looks on their faces were priceless! It truly turned into a favorite amongst them all, sparking joy and laughter around the table.

FAQs

What is Cranberry Orange Bread?

Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful quick bread that combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright, zesty flavor of oranges. This sweet and tangy loaf is typically made with fresh or dried cranberries, orange juice, and zest, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It’s an ideal treat for breakfast or as a snack. The bread is moist and aromatic, making it a favorite during the holiday season, although it can be enjoyed year-round. With its vibrant colors and rich taste, Cranberry Orange Bread often becomes a staple in many households.

How can I store Cranberry Orange Bread?

To keep your Cranberry Orange Bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil once it has cooled completely. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the bread. Slice it before freezing for easy access later. Place the slices in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from the freezer.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make gluten-free Cranberry Orange Bread! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results. Ensure that your baking powder and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. The final product may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious and flavorful. Enjoy this delightful twist on a classic recipe without sacrificing taste!

What are some variations of Cranberry Orange Bread?

There are many delightful variations of Cranberry Orange Bread you can try! For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in nuts like walnuts or pecans. You can also experiment with spices such as cinnamon or ginger to elevate the taste profile further. For a sweeter twist, add chocolate chips or a glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice on top after baking. These variations allow you to customize your bread according to your preferences while keeping the essence of the original recipe.

Conclusion

In summary, Cranberry Orange Bread is a deliciously sweet and tangy treat that combines seasonal flavors perfectly. It’s easy to make and versatile enough for any occasion, whether served fresh at breakfast or as an afternoon snack. By following simple storage tips or trying creative variations, you can enjoy this delightful bread for days on end. Don’t hesitate to whip up this tasty recipe; it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your home!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card