Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Festive and Flavorful Yogurt Bread

Looking for the most delicious recipe for cranberry orange bread? This festive and flavorful yogurt bread is bursting with cranberries and oranges, perfect for a special breakfast or lunch, or as an accompaniment to any dish.

Simple Glazed Cranberry Orange Bread

The Many Reasons Cranberry Orange Bread Is So Adorable

Delicious for both breakfast and dessert! If I could, I would have a piece of this bread for dessert, breakfast, and even mid-afternoon, occasionally!

Apt for the Festive Season

One of my favorite things to prepare when cranberries are in season is this sweet bread, which is a delightful blend of sweet oranges and slightly acidic cranberries. Perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas, it’s sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

Make Use of Those Acorn Cranberries

Cranberries are in season for a limited time only! You may enjoy this tasty bread throughout the year by freezing any extras while they are still fresh and in season.

The Sweet Glaze Enhances the Delight

The sweet glaze adds a burst of orange flavor and elevates this loaf to a whole new level.

Recipe Items

For the Loaf:

• 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup whole-milk yogurt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons grated orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed and washed

For the Orange Syrup:

• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/3 cup sugar

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup sifted confectioners’ sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons homemade orange juice

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray and sprinkle with flour, pressing off any excess.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, vanilla, and oil until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until smooth. Toss the cranberries with the remaining tablespoon of flour in a separate bowl, then carefully fold them into the batter.
4. Bake for 30-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out with a few wet crumbs. Remove from the pan and transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to cool completely.
5. While the loaf is cooling, make the orange syrup by combining the orange juice and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Simmer for an additional 3 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
6. Poke holes in the top and sides of the cooled bread with a toothpick. Brush the orange syrup over the surface and edges of the loaf. Allow the syrup to soak in, then brush again. Let the bread cool completely.
7. To make the glaze, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and orange juice until smooth and pourable. If too thick, add more orange juice. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread, allowing it to drip down the sides. Let the glaze set for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

While fresh or frozen cranberries are preferred for their tartness and juiciness, you can substitute dried cranberries. However, adjust the quantity and expect a slightly different texture.

Can I freeze the glazed bread?

Yes, you can freeze the glazed bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

How long will the cranberry orange bread stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the bread will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for longer freshness, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.