There’s nothing quite like the bright scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s infused with the zesty notes of orange and the tartness of cranberries. As I whipped up this Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread for a recent gathering, the anticipation built with each stirring of the bowl. This moist, tender bread is draped in a sweet orange glaze and topped with a buttery cinnamon streusel—perfect for those crisp mornings or festive brunches.
Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself to a cozy slice with your favorite cup of tea, this recipe is designed to impress with its delightful flavors and easy prep. Plus, it’s a surefire way to shake off the humdrum of everyday meals and make your table feel a bit more special. Join me as we dive into this delightful baking adventure!
Why will you love Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread?
Simplicity: This recipe is super easy, taking just a few steps to create a gorgeous loaf that impresses.
Flavor explosion: The vibrant combination of zesty orange and tart cranberries creates a flavor that dances on your palate, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Perfectly moist: Thanks to the buttermilk and fresh ingredients, this bread stays incredibly moist, making every bite a delight.
Versatile choice: Whether served warm with butter or as a festive treat at gatherings, this bread suits any occasion beautifully.
Make-ahead friendly: Prep the batter a night ahead for an effortless morning bake—your family will love waking up to fresh bread!
Enjoy the full experience with this impressive recipe that guarantees to elevate both your cooking game and your breakfast table!
Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
• Fresh Cranberries – Adds tartness and texture; substitute with frozen cranberries if fresh are unavailable.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread; brown sugar can add a deeper flavor.
• Orange Zest – Enhances the bread’s citrus flavor; use zest from fresh oranges for the best result.
• Buttermilk – Contributes to moisture and tenderness; substitute with plain yogurt or a mix of milk and vinegar if unavailable.
• Eggs – Binds ingredients together and helps with leavening.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture; can be substituted with melted butter or coconut oil.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Chemical leaveners to ensure the bread rises.
• Ground Cinnamon – Flavor enhancer for both the bread and the streusel; use nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
For the Streusel Topping
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; ensure it’s cold for the perfect crumbly texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; consider brown sugar for a richer taste.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the topping with warming spice; swap for nutmeg if desired.
• Butter – Keeps the streusel crunchy; should be cold and diced for the best results.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Used for the glaze; adds sweetness and a glossy finish.
• Orange Juice – Mix with powdered sugar for a sweet, tangy glaze; fresh juice is recommended for brightness.
Elevate your baking with this delightful Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread that promises to fill your home with irresistible aromas and delicious flavors.
How to Make Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously to ensure easy removal later.
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Prepare the Streusel: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter. Mix using your fingers or a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside for topping.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures even distribution for a perfect rise.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and buttermilk until well-blended and smooth. The color should be uniform and bright.
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Incorporate Zest and Cranberries: Gently fold the fresh orange zest and cranberries into the wet mixture. Be careful not to crush the cranberries too much for texture.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t over-mix to keep the bread light and airy.
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Add to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Evenly sprinkle the prepared streusel topping over the batter.
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Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 55 minutes. Use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
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Cool and Glaze: After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack. If desired, drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice once completely cooled.
Optional: Serve warm with a pat of butter for an irresistible treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Variations
Feel free to customize your bread with these delightful twists that will awaken your taste buds and reflect your personal style!
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Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft loaf. Nuts add a rich depth to the already tasty bread.
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Berry Substitute: Swap the cranberries for fresh raspberries or blueberries for a sweeter version that’s equally delicious. This variation brightens the flavor while adding a lovely pop of color.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the batter for a warm, fragrant touch that’s perfect for cooler months. These spices bring cozy warmth to each bite.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to accommodate gluten intolerances without sacrificing flavor or texture. Enjoy every morsel without worry!
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Less Sweet: For a lower-sugar treat, omit the glaze and serve the plain bread with a slather of cream cheese or butter. This will still offer a delightful bite with less sweetness.
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Citrus Burst: Enhance the citrus flavor by mixing in some lemon or lime zest along with the orange zest. The combination creates a vibrant, zesty profile that brightens up the bread.
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Heat it Up: Incorporate a ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a surprising kick that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness. A little spice goes a long way!
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Chocolate Twist: Add ½ cup of dark or white chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, decadent touch that pairs wonderfully with the cranberries. Chocolate always makes life a bit sweeter!
Make Ahead Options
These Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it—this not only saves you time on hectic mornings, but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just mix all the wet and dry ingredients as instructed, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into your greased loaf pan, sprinkle the streusel topping, and bake as directed. For optimal freshness, it’s best to store any leftover bread at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage, ensuring that your treats remain moist and delightful. Enjoy the cozy aroma of freshly baked bread without the morning rush!
Expert Tips for Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread
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Cold Butter for Streusel: Keep the butter for the streusel cold to ensure a crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the moist bread.
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Doneness Check: Always use a toothpick to test for doneness. Avoid over-baking by checking a few minutes before the timer goes off—your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread should be golden and springy.
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Flavor Development: For improved flavor, allow the bread to sit overnight before slicing. This small step enhances the taste and makes each slice even more enjoyable.
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Incorporate Cranberries Gently: When folding in cranberries and zest, do so gently to maintain the integrity of the fruit pieces for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
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Glaze Variations: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less orange juice. A thicker glaze provides a nice contrast to the bread!
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Keep it Moist: If storing, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap to retain moisture—or slice and freeze for later indulgence without compromising texture.
How to Store and Freeze Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread
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Room Temperature: Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful moisture and flavor.
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Fridge: If you prefer to keep it longer, the bread can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, but be aware that it may dry out slightly.
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Freezer: To freeze, slice the bread and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months for the best taste.
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Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, simply thaw at room temperature, then microwave for 15-20 seconds, or pop it in a toaster for a few minutes. Enjoy the charming flavors of your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread once more!
What to Serve with Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread?
This delightful quick bread deserves delicious companions that enhance its fruity flavors and add charm to your meal.
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Creamy Butter: A generous spread of creamy butter on a warm slice elevates the experience and adds richness.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the bread’s tartness and adds a refreshing burst of flavor to your breakfast table.
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Warm Spiced Tea: Pairing this bread with a chai or spiced tea deepens the cozy vibe, making each bite even more comforting.
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Crisp Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon provides a striking contrast to the sweet, zesty bread, creating a well-rounded brunch plate.
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Honey Yogurt Dip: A dollop of honey-sweetened yogurt offers a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness of the glaze perfectly.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert twist, serve a slice warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle with extra orange glaze.
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Nutty Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of nutty coffee beautifully complements the citrusy notes, making every sip delightful.
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Whipped Cream: A light topping of whipped cream can transform a simple slice into a festive treat, perfect for gatherings.
These pairings create a delightful spread, making your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread not just a dish but a centerpiece for memorable moments.
Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use for the bread?
Absolutely, I recommend using fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture! If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries work perfectly as a substitute. Just be sure to rinse and dry them before folding them into the batter.
How should I store the Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread?
To keep your bread fresh and moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, though it may lose a bit of moisture.
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Can I freeze Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread?
Certainly! For freezing, slice the bread and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, then microwave for 15-20 seconds, or toast them lightly for a warm treat.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
Very good question! To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It’s ready when the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-baking.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, this Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread is generally suitable for those with nut allergies since it doesn’t contain nuts in the ingredients. However, always check that any substitutions or additional ingredients you use are nut-free to maintain safety.
Can I make substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Of course! If you’re looking for gluten-free options, swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free variations, substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with vinegar, or use plain yogurt if you prefer. Always feel free to adapt the recipe to best suit your needs!
Zesty Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan generously.
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In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter for the streusel. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
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Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl.
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In another bowl, mix together granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and buttermilk until well-blended.
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Gently fold in the fresh orange zest and cranberries.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the streusel topping over it.
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Bake for about 55 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle with glaze if desired.