Seeking the quintessential Cranberry Orange Bread recipe? This delightful yogurt-infused loaf, brimming with the zest of cranberries and oranges, is a seasonal marvel, ideal for festive feasts. Whether as a sumptuous breakfast or a midday treat, this bread seamlessly complements any culinary spread.
Why We Adore Cranberry Orange Bread
Delectable for Breakfast or Dessert
Indulge in a slice of this ambrosial bread for breakfast, dessert, or even as an afternoon pick-me-up. Its versatile sweetness is utterly satisfying at any time.
Perfect for the Holiday Season
This divine sweet bread marries the tang of oranges with the tartness of cranberries, making it a cherished recipe during the cranberry season. It graces holiday tables with ease and is a beloved choice for Thanksgiving and Christmas baking endeavors.
Make the Most of Seasonal Cranberries
With cranberries gracing store shelves only briefly, seize the moment! Freeze fresh cranberries to enjoy this exquisite bread throughout the year.
Sweet Glaze Elevates the Treat
The luscious glaze, imbued with orange essence, transforms this loaf into an extraordinary delight, adding a touch of sophistication.
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
Method to Craft Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan, tapping out any surplus flour.
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, vanilla, and oil until well combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Cranberries: Toss the cranberries with the remaining tablespoon of flour, then gently fold them into the batter.
- Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges with a few moist crumbs. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Orange Syrup: While the loaf cools, create the syrup. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the orange juice and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Syrup Application: Poke holes in the warm loaf using a toothpick. Brush the top and sides with the orange syrup, allowing it to soak in. Repeat the brushing process, then let the loaf cool completely.
- Orange Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of orange juice until thick yet pourable. If necessary, add more orange juice to achieve the desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf, letting it cascade down the sides. Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes before serving.
This Cranberry Orange Bread, with its aromatic glaze and moist crumb, is a festive masterpiece, sure to enchant both family and guests alike. Enjoy!
