Cranberry Orange Bread With Simple Glaze

There’s something magical about the combination of tart cranberries and sweet orange. When paired in a quick bread recipe, it results in a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just want a treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, cranberry orange bread with a simple glaze brings a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. This easy-to-follow recipe combines simple ingredients and offers a delightful finish with a tangy glaze. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this amazing bread from scratch.

Introduction to Cranberry Orange Bread

Overview of Cranberry Orange Bread

Cranberry Orange Bread isn’t just a festive treat—it’s a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The vibrant orange zest complements the tartness of fresh cranberries, creating a light yet hearty loaf. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, this bread works wonders on any table. And let’s not forget the glaze! The simple orange glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, bringing out the citrusy goodness while adding a glossy, irresistible shine.

It’s no wonder this bread has gained popularity, especially during the holiday season. The combination of cranberries and orange is festive, making it an excellent gift or centerpiece for your next gathering. With its gorgeous appearance and burst of flavor, Cranberry Orange Bread always stands out.

Importance of a Simple Glaze

What makes this bread even more special is the glaze. A simple orange glaze doesn’t just add sweetness; it enhances the flavor profile and gives the bread a beautiful, glossy finish. The tangy sweetness from the glaze pairs so well with the bread’s flavors, making each bite a real treat.

What’s fantastic about this glaze is how easy it is to make! Unlike more complicated frostings, you don’t need to stress over fancy techniques. Just a few ingredients, and you’re done. The glaze elevates the bread, giving it that bakery-quality look and taste without much effort. It’s quick, simple, and oh-so-delicious.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients for the Bread

To make this cranberry orange bread with simple glaze, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Let’s break them down into two categories: dry and wet ingredients.

Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your bread.
• Baking powder: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
• Kosher salt: Just a pinch to balance the flavors.

Wet Ingredients

• Plain whole-milk yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess.
• Granulated sugar: For that perfect touch of sweetness.
• Large eggs: These give the bread structure and richness.
• Grated orange zest: This is what gives the bread that fresh, citrusy aroma.
• Pure vanilla extract: A little vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.

Add-ins

• Fresh or frozen cranberries: These are the stars of the bread! If you’re using frozen cranberries, thaw them first. A light dusting of flour on the cranberries helps them float in the batter rather than sinking to the bottom.

Ingredients for the Orange Glaze

The glaze is super simple, yet it adds a lovely finishing touch to your bread.

• Confectioners’ sugar: For the sweetness and smooth texture.
• Fresh orange juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor that ties everything together.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Now that we have the ingredients, let’s start making the bread!

Preparing the Pan and Preheating the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Tap out any extra flour so the bread doesn’t stick.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, sift together your flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Mixing Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Mix until everything is well combined.

Combining Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the bread might turn out tough.

Preparing the Cranberries

Toss the cranberries with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter. This prevents them from sinking while baking and keeps them evenly distributed throughout the bread.

Baking the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooling

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important because glazing the bread while it’s still warm might cause the glaze to melt away.

Preparing the Orange Glaze

Ingredients for the Glaze

The glaze is so easy to make and really makes the bread shine. You’ll need just two ingredients:

• Confectioners’ sugar: This gives the glaze a smooth, sweet texture.
• Fresh orange juice: Adds the tangy citrus flavor that ties the whole bread together.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Mixing the Glaze

To make the glaze, start by adding the powdered sugar to a small bowl. Slowly pour in the fresh orange juice. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a bit more orange juice to reach the right consistency. You want it to be pourable but not too runny.

Glazing the Bread

Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let it flow down the sides for a beautiful finish. It should start to set after a few minutes.

Variations and Additions

Adding Nuts

If you like nuts, try adding them! You can mix in chopped walnuts or pecans. This will give your bread a nice crunch. Just fold them into the batter along with the cranberries.

Using Dried Cranberries

Don’t have fresh cranberries? No problem! You can use dried cranberries instead. Just make sure to add a little extra moisture, like more yogurt or juice, since dried cranberries are less juicy.

Adding Spices

For a warmer flavor, try adding spices. A little cinnamon or nutmeg can really change the taste. Just mix them in with the dry ingredients. Start with a pinch, and adjust to your liking.

Making a Streusel Topping

Want something extra? Make a sweet streusel topping. Mix flour, sugar, butter, and a little cinnamon. Sprinkle it over the batter before baking. This adds a crunchy, sugary top to your bread.

Adjusting Sweetness

If you prefer your bread less sweet, you can cut back on the sugar. Or, if you like it sweeter, add more sugar to the batter or the glaze. It’s all up to your taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dense or Dry Bread

If your bread turns out too dense or dry, it might be because of overmixing. Mix the ingredients gently, just until they’re combined. Also, check your oven temperature. If it’s too high, the bread can dry out.

Sinking Cranberries

If your cranberries sink to the bottom, coat them in a little flour before adding them to the batter. This will help them stay evenly spread throughout the bread.

Overbaked or Undercooked Bread

If your bread is too dry, it might be overbaked. Use a toothpick to check if it’s done. Insert it into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. If the bread is undercooked, bake it a little longer.

Glaze Issues

If your glaze is too thick, add more orange juice to thin it out. If it’s too runny, add more powdered sugar until it thickens to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Beverages

Cranberry orange bread goes great with drinks. Try it with a cup of coffee or tea. It also pairs well with fresh fruit juice. The sweet and tart flavors balance nicely with your drink.

Serving as a Gift

This bread makes a wonderful gift. Wrap it in nice paper or place it in a decorative box. It’s perfect for holidays or special occasions. Everyone will appreciate the homemade touch.

Incorporating into Meals

Serve cranberry orange bread with other foods. It’s great for brunch or as part of a light breakfast. You can even serve it with a bowl of soup or a fresh salad for a simple, satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Content

Cranberry orange bread is delicious, but it’s also important to know how many calories it has. A single slice can have about 200-250 calories, depending on the size and ingredients.

Macronutrient Breakdown

Here’s a simple breakdown of the bread’s macronutrients per slice:

• Carbs: The bread is rich in carbohydrates, mainly from the flour and sugar.
• Proteins: The eggs and yogurt provide some protein.
• Fats: The oil and eggs add healthy fats to the bread.

Dietary Considerations

If you need to make the bread gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. To make it dairy-free, substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free option like coconut yogurt. These swaps can help fit your dietary needs while keeping the bread delicious.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just let them thaw and drain any extra water before adding them to the batter.

How do I prevent cranberries from sinking?

To stop cranberries from sinking, coat them in a little flour before adding them to the batter. This helps them stay spread out in the bread.

Can I make this bread without yogurt?

Yes, you can. If you don’t have yogurt, try using sour cream or buttermilk instead. Both will work well in the recipe.

How do I store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.

Can I freeze the bread?

Yes, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it thaw before serving.

Conclusion

Recap of the Recipe

Cranberry orange bread is a simple and tasty treat. You mix the wet and dry ingredients, bake the bread, and finish it with a sweet orange glaze. It’s easy to make and full of flavor.

Encouragement to Try the Recipe

If you haven’t tried it yet, now is the time! It’s a fun recipe to make and share with family or friends. You’ll love the taste and the smell as it bakes.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry orange bread is a great choice for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for yourself or gifting it to others, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy every slice!

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