why make this recipe
Cranberry Bread is not just a delicious treat; it’s also a beautiful way to celebrate the flavors of the season. The tartness of fresh cranberries pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bread, making it a delightful snack or breakfast option. This bread is moist, flavorful, and easy to make, which makes it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
Moreover, the sweet orange glaze adds a vibrant touch that enhances the overall experience. Making Cranberry Bread allows you to indulge in the homemade goodness that store-bought options just can’t match. This recipe is versatile, too—you can serve it warm, at room temperature, or even toasted with a bit of butter.
equipment needed for Cranberry Bread
To make your Cranberry Bread, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment. Make sure you have a mixing bowl for combining your dry ingredients and another for the wet ones. A loaf pan is essential for baking the bread. Additionally, having a mixing spoon, a whisk, and a measuring cup or scale will help ensure accuracy in your measurements.
An electric mixer can make your job easier when creaming the butter and sugar, but you can also do this by hand if you prefer. Lastly, an oven is, of course, a must-have for baking. With these simple tools, you’ll be ready to create a delicious loaf of Cranberry Bread.
What You Need to Make Cranberry Bread
- 2 ½ cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup butter (salted, softened)
- 3 teaspoons orange zest
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 2 ½ cups fresh cranberries
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze)
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (for glaze, plus more for garnish if desired)
- 1-2 teaspoons orange zest (for the bread)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (chopped)
How to Cook Cranberry Bread Step by Step
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by greasing and flouring it to prevent the bread from sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt to your dry ingredients. Make sure to whisk them well so that everything is evenly distributed. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. This should take about 3-5 minutes and will create a light and fluffy mixture.
Next, add the orange zest to the butter and sugar mixture. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. After this, add in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and orange juice. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it is smooth and well combined. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can result in a tough texture.
Now fold in the fresh cranberries and chopped dried cranberries into the batter gently. This will ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the bread. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
While the bread is baking, you can prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until a smooth and pourable consistency is achieved. Set this aside until the bread is done baking and has cooled.
Once the bread is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before adding the glaze. Drizzle the orange glaze generously over the top of the bread. You can add extra orange zest on top for a special touch.
how to serve Cranberry Bread
Cranberry Bread can be served in many delightful ways. For breakfast, slice the bread warm and spread a little bit of butter on top for added flavor. It makes a great addition to a brunch spread and can be complemented with coffee or tea. You can also serve it as a snack in the afternoon with your favorite beverage.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider slicing the bread into smaller pieces and serving it on a platter. You can also toast the slices and serve them with cream cheese or ricotta spread for a more sophisticated option. No matter how you serve it, this bread is sure to impress your family and friends.
what to serve with Cranberry Bread
Cranberry Bread pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. For a simple breakfast, enjoy it alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate. A dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese can elevate the experience and add richness.
It also complements savory items well. You could serve it alongside a cheese platter featuring soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese. Alternatively, pair it with your favorite soup for a cozy meal on cooler days. Serving it with fresh fruit or a simple salad can round out your dish nicely.
how to store Cranberry Bread
To store your Cranberry Bread, make sure it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. You can store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider placing it in the refrigerator; it can stay fresh for about a week this way.
For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature. You can warm it in the oven for a delightful freshly baked aroma.
tips to make Cranberry Bread
To ensure the best results with your Cranberry Bread, consider a few helpful tips. Make sure your butter is truly softened before you begin; this will help it cream better with the sugar. If the butter is too hard, it won’t mix well, affecting the final texture of the bread.
Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries can work too, but make sure to thaw and drain them first. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread tender and fluffy. Lastly, allow it to cool fully before adding the glaze, as this will help it set beautifully without sliding off.
variation
There are numerous variations you can try with Cranberry Bread. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. If you prefer a healthier version, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour.
Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also provide a lovely warmth to the flavor profile. To switch it up, you could replace some cranberries with blueberries or diced apples for a fruit medley. Experimenting with these variations can make each loaf a unique experience.
best time to make Cranberry Bread
Cranberry Bread is especially wonderful during the fall and winter seasons when fresh cranberries are in abundance. It is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a gift during the festive season. Many people associate it with Thanksgiving and Christmas, making it a seasonal favorite.
However, it can be enjoyed year-round as cranberries are often available in frozen form. Baking this bread on a rainy afternoon can bring warmth and comfort to any day, making it suitable for any occasion you choose.
common mistakes to avoid
When making Cranberry Bread, there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind. One is using cold ingredients—make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This step ensures the batter mixes evenly and produces a tender crumb.
Overmixing the batter is another mistake that can lead to a tougher bread. Mix only until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Additionally, ensure you don’t skip the cooling time before glazing; adding glaze to warm bread may result in a melted, messy glaze rather than a lovely drizzle.
nutritional notes
Cranberry Bread can be a delightful treat, but it’s good to be aware of its nutritional content. This bread is rich in carbohydrates and sugars, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. However, cranberries offer beneficial nutrients like fiber and antioxidants, making it a bit healthier.
If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider decreasing the amount in the recipe or using a sugar substitute. This option can help you enjoy a slice without as much added sweetness while still tasting the tart cranberries.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries, but the flavor will be different. Fresh cranberries provide a tangy taste, while dried cranberries are sweeter.
How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done baking.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chopped walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture and flavor of the bread.
conclusion
Cranberry Bread is a delightful recipe that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of a soft, moist loaf. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a perfect project for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat or serving it at a holiday gathering, it’s sure to be a hit.
By incorporating tips and variations, you can customize it to suit your preferences and impress family and friends. With its beautiful presentation and delightful flavor, Cranberry Bread is a taste of home baking that everyone will love.
Bread Ingredients
- 2.5 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup butter (salted, softened)
- 3 teaspoons orange zest
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.75 cups sour cream
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 2.5 cups fresh cranberries
- 0.25 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
Glaze Ingredients
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 2 teaspoons orange zest plus more for garnish if desired
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
Add the orange zest to the butter and sugar mixture.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and orange juice until smooth.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
Fold in fresh cranberries and chopped dried cranberries.
Baking
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Glazing
While the bread is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
Once the bread has baked, cool it in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Allow it to cool completely before drizzling the glaze on top.
Optional: Add extra orange zest on top for garnish.
Serve slices warm with butter, or as a delightful addition to brunch. Can also be toasted and served with cream cheese.
