If you’re looking for a delightful treat that marries tangy cranberries with zesty orange flavors, this Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a beautiful balance of sweet and tart, enriched by the comforting texture of soft, tender bread. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with a slather of butter, this bread is the kind of recipe that instantly brightens your day and fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create a harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays an essential role in bringing the bread to life, from the moisture of the milk to the brightness in the orange zest.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and makes the bread tender.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast: The magic that helps the dough rise and become fluffy.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the tartness.
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F: Warmer milk activates the yeast and keeps the bread moist.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Enriches the dough with a creamy, tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Give the bread structure and a lovely richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 1/4 cups fresh cranberries: Provides bursts of tartness and vibrant color throughout the bread.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Introduces a fresh, citrusy aroma that brightens every bite.
- 3 tablespoons orange juice: Adds moisture and an extra layer of orange flavor.
- 1/3 cup chopped pistachios (optional): Adds a crunchy contrast and earthy notes if you choose to include them.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for optional glaze): Sweetens the final touch with a glossy finish.
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Helps create that perfect drizzle consistency.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by warming the whole milk to about 110°F—this temperature wakes up the yeast without killing it. Combine the warmed milk with a tablespoon of sugar and the instant yeast. Allow it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, signaling the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, remaining sugar, salt, eggs, softened butter, and the foamy yeast mixture. Knead the dough for about 8 to 10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic—this kneading process develops the gluten and creates that perfect chewy texture we all love in bread.
Step 3: First Rise
Grease a bowl and place your dough inside, then cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size. Watching the dough grow is like witnessing your bread’s personality coming to life.
Step 4: Prepare the Cranberry Orange Mixture
While your dough is rising, toss fresh cranberries with orange zest and orange juice. If you prefer it a touch sweeter, sprinkle in a spoonful of sugar. This mixture is what will infuse the bread with bursts of tart and citrusy delight.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Once risen, roll the dough out into a large rectangle. Spread the cranberry and orange mixture evenly across the surface so that every bite delivers that fruity brightness.
Step 6: Shape the Bread
Carefully roll the dough into a log, then slice it into even sections. Arrange these segments cut-side up in a greased bundt or springform pan, creating a pull-apart style bread that looks as pretty as it tastes.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the arranged dough and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes. This second rise allows the bread to become light, fluffy, and beautifully airy when baked.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The aroma during baking is an irresistible invitation to gather in the kitchen.
Step 9: Optional Glaze and Toppings
If you want to take your Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe to the next level, mix powdered sugar with milk to make a simple glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled bread and sprinkle with chopped pistachios and extra orange zest. This step adds an elegant finish and a touch of crunch.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of the orange glaze instantly brightens the presentation. Fresh orange zest and a few whole cranberries placed on top can make it look festive and inviting, perfect for sharing with guests.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, but it also complements soft cream cheese or a smooth butter spread. For a more indulgent treat, try serving it alongside whipped mascarpone or a mild vanilla yogurt dip.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing and toasting the bread, then spreading with rich almond butter or a drizzle of honey. You can also turn leftovers into French toast or use the bread cubes for a stunning bread pudding. This versatility means your Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe can surprise you again and again.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for up to three days, but you’ll want to guard against it drying out by sealing it well.
Freezing
The bread freezes wonderfully. Slice before freezing for easy thaw-and-eat portions. Wrap the slices in foil or place them in freezer bags, where they stay delicious for up to three months.
Reheating
To bring the bread back to life, warm slices in a toaster or oven preheated to 325°F for a few minutes until soft and fragrant. If you froze it with glaze, warming slightly helps the glaze soften and the flavors unfold perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
While fresh cranberries give the best burst of tart flavor and moisture, dried cranberries can work in a pinch. Just reduce any added sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk with any plant-based milk of your choice, and replace butter with a vegan alternative or coconut oil to maintain richness.
How long does the second rise need to be?
The second rise should be about 30 to 45 minutes or until the dough puffs up noticeably. This step is important for a light, airy bread texture.
Can I add nuts other than pistachios?
Definitely. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds would all add delicious crunch and complement the cranberry and orange flavors beautifully.
Is the glaze necessary?
The glaze is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a sweeter, more polished finish. Without it, the bread is still wonderful and perfect for those who prefer less sweetness.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing this Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe. It’s a comforting, bright, and flavorful loaf that feels like a hug in food form. Whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a gift for friends, this recipe has a way of turning ordinary moments into treasured memories. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just like I have!
Print
Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 to 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful sweet bread featuring a tender, yeast-leavened dough filled with fresh tart cranberries and bright orange zest. The bread is soft and fluffy with a hint of citrus and a beautiful cranberry swirl, perfect for breakfast or as a festive snack. Optionally topped with a simple powdered sugar glaze and chopped pistachios for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional for cranberry mixture)
Glaze and Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/3 cup chopped pistachios
- Additional orange zest for garnish
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Warm the milk to about 110°F and combine it with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and the instant yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, the remaining sugar, salt, eggs, softened butter, and the yeast mixture. Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the fresh cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, and optionally 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance the tartness.
- Shape Dough: Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cranberry and orange filling evenly over the surface of the dough.
- Form Log and Cut: Roll the dough into a log tightly, then cut it into even sections suitable for baking. Arrange the sections in a greased bundt pan or springform pan spaced evenly.
- Second Rise: Cover the pan and let the dough rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Add Glaze and Toppings: If desired, mix powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk to create a glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and sprinkle with chopped pistachios and additional orange zest to finish.
Notes
- For a sweeter bread, increase the sugar slightly or add more to the cranberry mixture.
- Ensure the milk is not too hot when activating yeast to avoid killing it; 110°F is ideal.
- Fresh cranberries can be substituted with frozen ones, but thaw and drain them first.
- The glaze is optional but adds a nice sweetness and visual appeal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
