Name: Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 0.25 tsp salt; 0.25 cups milk (room temperature); 1 large orange (zest divided); 0.25 cups orange juice (freshly squeezed); 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened); 0.75 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1.5 cups fresh cranberries (rinsed and patted dry); 0.5 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1.5 Tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed, to reach desired consistency); 1 tsp orange zest (reserved from the bread ingredients)

Introduction to Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Why Homemade Cranberry Bread is a Game-Changer for Young Professionals

Are you a busy young professional looking for a way to elevate your brunch game or impress friends at your next gathering? Look no further than this Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze. This delightful treat not only brings a burst of flavor but also serves as a thoughtful homemade gift, ideal for the holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a small party or simply treating yourself, making this bread is both quick and rewarding.

Imagine walking into your home, the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the air. It’s a simple pleasure that takes just under an hour to craft, making it easy to fit into even the tightest schedules. Plus, studies show that baking can reduce stress and boost your mood—what's better than spending some quality time in your kitchen while creating something delicious?

The combination of juicy cranberries and a zesty orange glaze not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch. Adding fruits like cranberries to your diet can improve heart health and provide antioxidants. So why not indulge in a slice of this homemade goodness? Trust us, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Ingredients for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

When it comes to Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze, the right ingredients are key to achieving that delightful balance of tartness and sweetness. Let’s break down what you need for both the bread and the glaze, so you can prepare this delicious treat with ease!

Key Ingredients for the Bread

For the bread itself, you’ll want:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your loaf, providing structure.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the bread rise and gives it a light texture.
¼ teaspoon salt: A pinch brings out the flavors.
¼ cup milk (room temperature): Adds moisture.
Zest and juice of 1 large orange: Infuses your bread with fresh citrus flavor.
6 tablespoon unsalted butter (softened): For that rich, buttery goodness.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture.
2 large eggs (room temperature): Binds everything together.
1 ½ cups fresh cranberries: These tart gems are the star of the dish!
½ tablespoon all-purpose flour: To lightly coat the cranberries, preventing them from sinking.

Essential Ingredients for the Orange Glaze

For that zesty orange glaze, gather:

1 cup powdered sugar: Provides the sweetness and helps achieve that lovely, smooth texture.
1 ½ tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice: Adjust to create your desired consistency.
1 teaspoon orange zest: Adds a burst of flavor to the glaze—don’t skip this!

With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to create an irresistible cranberry bread adorned with a vibrant orange glaze! Whether it's for a cozy gathering or a homemade gift, this recipe is sure to impress. If you're looking for tips on selecting the best cranberries, check out this guide from the USDA. Happy baking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Creating a delicious Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze can be a delightful experience, especially during the holidays. Let’s break down the steps to ensure you craft the perfect loaf that’s not only tasty but also a beautiful gift option.

Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

First things first: set the mood in your kitchen! Preheat your oven to 350°F. While that's warming up, gather your ingredients. You'll need:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup milk (room temperature)
Zest of 1 large orange (reserve 1 teaspoon for the glaze)
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
6 tablespoon unsalted butter (softened)
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 ½ cups fresh cranberries (rinsed and patted dry)
½ tablespoon all-purpose flour (for tossing cranberries)

And don't forget the glaze components:

1 cup powdered sugar
1 ½ tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice (adjust to your liking)
Remaining orange zest from earlier

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Doing this ensures your Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze has a nice, even texture. Set this bowl aside while you work on the liquid ingredients.

Combine Wet Ingredients for a Flavorful Batter

In a separate measuring cup, mix the milk, orange zest, and freshly squeezed orange juice. This mixture infuses your batter with a fragrant citrus kick. It's those little details that elevate your bread!

Incorporate Dry and Wet Ingredients

Now comes the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until they’re just combined—about 2-3 minutes. Then, beat in the eggs until the mixture is smooth. Gradually add in your dry ingredient mixture, alternating with the milk mixture. Be gentle and only mix until just combined to keep your bread tender.

Add Cranberries and Prepare for Baking

Once your batter is ready, take the fresh cranberries and toss them in ½ tablespoon of flour. This little trick helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking. Gently fold in the cranberries using a spatula, and pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan.

Bake Until Golden Brown and Delicious

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’re aiming for a lovely golden-top and a toothpick should come out clean from the center. Once done, let your bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Make the Orange Glaze While the Bread Cools

While your Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze cools, prepare the glaze! In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar, reserved orange juice, and zest until it reaches a smooth drizzling consistency. If it’s too thick, a bit more juice can help!

Drizzle the Glaze and Let It Set

Finally, once your bread has cooled completely, generously drizzle the orange glaze over the top. Allow it to set for a while, letting the delightful sweetness complement the tart cranberries in your bread.

And voilà! You have a beautiful and scrumptious loaf of Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea. Happy baking!

Variations on Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Adding nuts or seeds for extra texture

One delightful way to switch up your Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze is by incorporating nuts or seeds. Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a satisfying crunch and enhance the flavor profile beautifully. If you prefer seeds, try adding sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option that still delivers texture and nutrition. Just fold in about ½ cup of your chosen addition before baking, and you’ll be amazed at how it transforms the loaf!

Incorporating different fruit flavors

Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different fruit flavors! You could mix in diced apples or pears for a sweeter twist, or even add blueberries for a burst of color and flavor. For a tropical flair, consider including shredded coconut or diced pineapple. The versatility of Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze makes it a delightful canvas for your favorite fruits, and you can create a new family favorite with each variation!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Best Practices to Ensure a Moist Loaf

To create a moist and tender cranberry bread, consider using room temperature ingredients like eggs and milk, which helps enhance the batter's texture. Avoid overmixing; once combined, stop mixing to prevent dense bread. You can also substitute some butter with applesauce for extra moisture without the added richness.

Storage Tips for Longevity and Freshness

To keep your Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it! Just slice it beforehand and layer parchment paper between slices for easy serving later. For more on proper food storage, check out the USDA's Food Storage Guidelines.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Ideal occasions to serve homemade cranberry bread

Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze is a versatile delight, perfect for various occasions. Whether you're attending a holiday gathering, hosting a brunch, or celebrating a birthday, this bread brings festive cheer to the table. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays. Imagine your friends' faces lighting up when they receive a loaf wrapped in pretty paper—what a sweet surprise!

Pairing ideas for a memorable meal

To elevate your meal, consider serving this cranberry bread alongside:

Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham: These savory options complement the bread's sweetness beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The fruit's brightness balances the flavors, adding a refreshing touch.
Herbal Tea or Citrus Lemonade: A warm drink can cozy up any gathering, while lemonade offers a zesty kick.

Explore more pairing ideas with helpful resources like Bon Appétit for inspiration! Enjoy crafting delightful moments with your cranberry bread!

Time Breakdown for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Preparation time
This Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze requires about 10 minutes to prepare. During this time, you’ll combine the dry and wet ingredients and get your loaf pan ready for baking.

Cooking time
Bake the loaf for approximately 50 minutes. This will give you a deliciously golden bread with a tender crumb that’s sure to impress.

Total time
In total, you're looking at around 1 hour from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy afternoon baking session! Enjoy the delightful aroma as your kitchen transforms into a festive haven. For more baking tips, check out this helpful guide on loaf baking.

By breaking down the time this way, you can easily fit this recipe into a busy day while preparing a wonderfully warm treat.

Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Calories per serving
Each generous slice of Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze packs approximately 326 calories. It's a delightful treat that balances indulgence and satisfaction — perfect for those cozy afternoons or festive gatherings.

Key nutritional elements
This delicious bread is not only a feast for the taste buds but also contains some essential nutrients:

Vitamin C: Thanks to the fresh cranberries and orange juice, this bread contributes to your daily vitamin C intake, promoting a healthy immune system.
Fiber: With cranberries providing dietary fiber, this bread can help support digestive health.
Antioxidants: Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which are known to combat oxidative stress in your body.

By incorporating Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze into your diet, you can enjoy a delightful balance of flavors while also benefiting from its nutritional perks. Want to learn more about the health implications of cranberries? Check out Healthline's article on cranberries for additional insights!

FAQs about Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Can I substitute for fresh cranberries?

Absolutely! If fresh cranberries aren't available, you can use frozen cranberries instead. Just be sure to rinse and toss them with a bit of flour before adding them to the batter to prevent clumping. Dried cranberries also work in a pinch; however, they will make the bread sweeter, so consider reducing the sugar slightly.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free version of Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help achieve that moist crumb you’re looking for. Many brands, like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur Flour, offer great options that work well in quick breads.

How can I ensure my glaze is the perfect consistency?

For that ideal glaze consistency, start with the recommended amounts of powdered sugar and fresh orange juice. If it feels too thick, gradually add more orange juice one teaspoon at a time until you reach a smooth drizzling consistency. Conversely, if if it’s too thin, just add a little more powdered sugar. Aim for a texture that glides off a spoon but isn’t runny.

For more tips and variations, check out sources like Serious Eats or The Kitchn!

Conclusion on Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

In summary, Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, especially the holiday season. Its moist texture and burst of citrus flavor make it an ideal homemade gift. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a sweet snack, this bread will surely impress!

For more delicious recipes, check out this collection of seasonal ideas!