Cranberry Orange Loaf

Cranberry Orange Loaf is like that warm hug you didn’t know you needed on a chilly morning. Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender slice of loaf bursting with sweet-tart cranberries and bright orange zest. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and fills your kitchen with the most intoxicating aromas. Whether you’re hosting brunch or needing a cozy snack while binge-watching your favorite show, this loaf has got your back.

This recipe brings back memories of my mom whipping up this delightful treat every holiday season. The anticipation of that first slice was almost unbearable as we could smell the zesty sweetness wafting from the oven. Picture family gathered around the table with steaming mugs of coffee as laughter filled the air. Trust me when I say that each bite will transport you to those cherished moments.

I remember my friends’ jaws dropping when they first tasted this loaf; they couldn’t believe how delicious it was.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use fresh flour for the best texture; sift it if you want an extra light loaf.
• Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work well; just don’t skip them for that tart burst of flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetness balances out the tartness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
• Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest gives a vibrant citrus flair that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Baking Powder: Essential for making your loaf rise beautifully; check freshness before use.
• Salt: Just a pinch heightens all those lovely flavors in each slice.
• Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better emulsification in the batter.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the loaf moist and tender—no one likes a dry slice.
• Milk: Adds richness to the batter; use whole milk for extra creaminess.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined; set aside.

Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine eggs, oil, milk, and orange zest. Whisk until fully blended; these ingredients are essential for moisture.

Fold in cranberries: Gently fold in cranberries into the wet mixture. Be careful not to crush them; we want whole pieces bursting with flavor.

Combine mixtures: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf—nobody wants that.

Bake it up: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in preheated oven for 50-60 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool & serve: Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire rack. Slice once completely cooled—if you can wait that long.

Enjoy each slice plain or slathered with butter or cream cheese for an extra treat. Your taste buds will thank you.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the dry ingredients first, then cream together the butter and sugar before adding eggs. Finally, fold in the cranberries and orange zest for an even distribution of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping in walnuts or pecans for added crunch. You can also use dried cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available, or try lemon zest for a different citrus twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Cranberry Orange Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months; thaw overnight before serving.

Cooking this loaf always brings back memories of holiday gatherings when my family would devour it in minutes, leaving only crumbs behind as they praised my baking skills.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries for the Cranberry Orange Loaf?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just don’t thaw them before mixing.

How long should I bake the Cranberry Orange Loaf?

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-65 minutes or until golden brown.

What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?

Try using applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute.