There’s something inherently delightful about a fresh, homemade loaf of bread that fills the house with its warm, inviting aroma. Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze takes this joy to the next level, blending the tartness of cranberries with the bright, citrusy zing of orange. This recipe is a timeless favorite in my family, evoking memories of cozy winter mornings and festive holiday gatherings.
I first encountered this recipe during a family holiday when my grandmother decided to add a twist to her traditional bread recipes. The bright, tangy flavor of the orange paired with the burst of tart cranberries was an instant hit. Each slice of the bread was like a little slice of celebration, and it quickly became a staple at our holiday table. The beautiful glaze added a touch of elegance, making it not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.
This Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze is perfect for a holiday breakfast, a charming brunch, or even as a thoughtful gift wrapped in a festive cloth. It combines simple ingredients into a loaf that’s both moist and flavorful, with a sweet glaze that adds the finishing touch. Here’s how you can recreate this delightful treat in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Loaf:
1 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, divided
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons grated orange zest
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen, thawed and rinsed
For the Orange Syrup:
1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1/3 cup sugar
For the Orange Glaze:
1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
2 to 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your bread will bake evenly, giving it a golden crust and tender crumb.
Prepare the Pan: Grease the bottom and sides of a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. Dust the pan with flour, tapping out the excess. This step helps prevent the bread from sticking and ensures a smooth release from the pan.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
Sift and Combine: In a medium bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Sifting these ingredients ensures that they are well mixed and helps to avoid clumps, which can affect the texture of the bread.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of plain whole-milk yogurt, 1 cup of sugar, 3 large eggs, 2 teaspoons of grated orange zest, 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Mix Together: Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
Fold in Cranberries: In a separate bowl, toss 1 1/2 cups of cranberries with the remaining 1 tablespoon of flour. This coating helps prevent the cranberries from sinking to the bottom of the loaf. Gently fold the floured cranberries into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
5. Bake the Bread
Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. The wire rack helps air circulate around the bread, preventing it from becoming soggy.
6. Prepare the Orange Syrup
Make Syrup: While the bread is cooling, prepare the orange syrup. In a small saucepan over medium heat, stir together 1/3 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice and 1/3 cup of sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Continue to cook for an additional 3 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
Apply Syrup: Using a toothpick, poke holes in the top and sides of the warm loaf. Brush the orange syrup over the top and sides, allowing it to soak in. Brush again for extra flavor and moisture. Let the loaf cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
7. Prepare the Orange Glaze
Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sifted confectioners’ sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice. The glaze should be thick but pourable. If it’s too stiff, add up to another tablespoon of orange juice until you reach the desired consistency.
Glaze the Bread: Once the bread is completely cool, pour the orange glaze over the top. Allow it to drip down the sides, creating a beautiful, glossy finish. Let the glaze set for about 15 minutes before slicing.
Variations and Tips
Fruit Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute cranberries with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples. Just be sure to adjust the sugar to balance the tartness of the fruit.
Nutty Twist: Add a half-cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for a delightful crunch and added texture.
Spice it Up: Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon, ginger, or allspice to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
Make Ahead: This bread can be made ahead of time. Store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well; just wrap it securely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing.
Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze is a delightful treat that brings together the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The addition of the orange syrup and glaze not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful glossy finish, making this bread a showstopper for any occasion. Whether served as a sweet breakfast, a charming brunch treat, or a thoughtful gift, this bread is sure to be a hit. The recipe is easy to follow, and the result is a moist, flavorful loaf that captures the essence of both celebration and comfort.
Baking this bread is more than just a culinary endeavor; it’s a way to create moments of joy and connection. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor the process, and enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade goodness. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze.
