There's nothing quite like the warm, citrusy aroma of freshly baked Orange Cranberry Bread filling your kitchen on a chilly morning. This delightful loaf blends the bright zest of oranges with the tart pop of cranberries, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

I first made this bread during the holidays when I wanted something festive yet simple to pair with coffee for visiting friends. It’s now become a staple in my baking rotation, bringing joy and nostalgia with every slice.

Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Orange Cranberry Bread

Get ready to enjoy a loaf that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This Orange Cranberry Bread is packed with flavor and easy enough for bakers of all skill levels.

First, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch or need a thoughtful homemade gift, this bread is guaranteed to impress.

Second, it’s incredibly simple to make. You don’t need a mixer or fancy tools – just a few bowls, a whisk, and an hour in the oven. It’s the kind of recipe you can throw together with minimal prep and still get bakery-worthy results.

Lastly, the combination of fresh cranberries and orange zest offers a seasonal twist that’s perfect for winter but still versatile enough to bake year-round. A slice tastes like sunshine on a plate!

Once you’ve tried this bread, it’s bound to become a go-to in your kitchen. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make it shine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Orange Cranberry Bread lies in its carefully selected ingredients, each bringing a unique touch to the loaf. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh Cranberries: These provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the bread. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, frozen ones work just as well. Just be sure to rinse and pat them dry before folding them in.
Orange Zest and Juice: Freshly grated zest delivers that bright citrus aroma, while the juice keeps the bread moist and flavorful. Don’t skimp on fresh oranges – it makes all the difference.
Buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang and creates a tender crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by combining regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the loaf without overpowering the tartness of the cranberries.
All-Purpose Flour: A reliable base that holds the bread together. For a nuttier flavor, you can substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour.
Baking Powder and Soda: These leavening agents ensure your loaf rises beautifully.
Butter: Adds richness and flavor. Make sure it’s melted but slightly cooled before mixing.

No special equipment is needed – just a loaf pan, a zester, and a mixing bowl!

How to Make This Orange Cranberry Bread

Baking this Orange Cranberry Bread is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure success:

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, melted butter, orange juice, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the orange zest to infuse the batter with citrusy goodness.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined – overmixing will make the bread dense.
Add Cranberries: Gently fold in the cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve as is, or with a slather of butter.

In about an hour, you’ll have a golden loaf bursting with citrus and cranberry flavors!

Storage Options

This bread stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or gifting. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Room Temperature: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 2-3 days.
Refrigeration: To extend its shelf life, refrigerate the loaf for up to a week. Warm slices in the microwave or toaster oven before serving for that just-baked taste.
Freezing: Slice the bread and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen slices can be reheated directly from the freezer for a quick treat.

No matter how you store it, this bread retains its moist, tender texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

Glazed Topping: Drizzle the cooled loaf with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
Nutty Addition: Fold in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Dried Cranberries: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, rehydrate dried cranberries in warm water or orange juice before using them.
Spiced Twist: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor.
Mini Loaves or Muffins: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans or muffin tins for individual servings. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

Feel free to experiment and find your favorite version of this classic recipe!

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this Orange Cranberry Bread is sure to become a cherished addition to your repertoire. With its bright flavors and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. Happy baking! 🍊🍞