Zesty Cranberry Orange Bread: A Burst of Flavor

Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful treat that combines the zesty brightness of oranges with the tartness of cranberries. This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack with your afternoon tea. In this post, we’ll delve into the history of this delicious bread, provide you with a wonderful recipe, and offer some expert tips for making the perfect Cranberry Orange Bread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this bread is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

A Brief History of Cranberry Orange Bread

Cranberries have a long history in American cuisine, dating back to Native American traditions. When combined with the citrusy tang of oranges, they create a harmonious and refreshing flavor profile. Cranberry Orange Bread became especially popular during the mid-20th century, and it has remained a beloved classic ever since.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious Cranberry Orange Bread:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest (grated orange peel)
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

Kitchen Equipment:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Loaf pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Zester or grater
  • Wire rack (for cooling)

Recipe Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two opposite sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, melted butter, egg, and orange zest. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and gently fold them together. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.

Gently fold in the cranberries until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the Cranberry Orange Bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Using the parchment paper overhang, carefully lift the bread out of the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe Tips and Shortcuts

  • If fresh cranberries are out of season, you can use frozen cranberries with equally delicious results.
  • Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra texture and flavor.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen ones?

While fresh or frozen cranberries are preferred for their tartness, you can use dried cranberries. Soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes to rehydrate before using.

Q2: How do I store leftover Cranberry Orange Bread?

To keep the bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Q3: Can I use orange juice from a carton instead of fresh-squeezed?

Fresh-squeezed orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use carton juice if it’s more convenient.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful and versatile treat that’s perfect for any time of day. With its combination of zesty orange and tart cranberries, it’s a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, this bread is sure to bring smiles to your table. So, why not try your hand at baking this delicious bread and savor the wonderful taste of Cranberry Orange goodness? Enjoy!

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