Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Irresistibly Simple Recipe

Are you ready to bake something truly special? My Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread is a treat that’s easy to make and hard to resist. This simple recipe combines sweet and tart flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, you’ll love how quick and delightful this bread is. Join me as we explore the ingredients, steps, and tips to make this delicious dish shine!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bright Flavors: The combination of fresh cranberries and orange juice creates a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness that brightens up any meal.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. It’s a simple mix-and-bake process!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, this bread fits right in and impresses everyone.
- Delicious Glaze: The orange glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful shine, making the bread visually appealing and irresistible.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze)
- Orange zest (for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bread. If you want to cut sugar, use honey or maple syrup instead. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil in place of butter. Eggs can be replaced with applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. You can also use lemon juice instead of orange juice if you prefer a tart flavor.
Flavor Benefits of Each Ingredient
- All-purpose flour gives structure to the bread.
- Fresh cranberries add a tart burst of flavor and a pop of color.
- Granulated sugar sweetens the bread and balances the tartness of cranberries.
- Baking powder and baking soda help the bread rise, making it light and fluffy.
- Salt enhances all the flavors in the bread.
- Unsalted butter adds richness and moisture.
- Eggs provide stability and help bind the ingredients.
- Orange juice and zest infuse bright, citrusy notes.
- Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Powdered sugar makes a sweet glaze that contrasts nicely with the bread.
- Additional orange zest for garnish adds a fresh touch and enhances aroma.
Every ingredient plays a key role in making this bread delicious. The mix of tart and sweet creates a perfect balance that is hard to resist.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or use parchment paper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
4. In another bowl, cream 1/2 cup softened butter until light.
5. Add 2 large eggs to the butter one at a time. Mix well after each.
6. Pour in 1/2 cup orange juice, zest of 1 orange, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
7. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until just combined.
8. Fold in 1 cup chopped cranberries gently.
Baking Instructions
1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 55-65 minutes. Check with a toothpick. It should come out clean.
3. Once done, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Cooling and Glazing Tips
1. Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. For the glaze, mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons orange juice.
3. Whisk until smooth.
4. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread.
5. Garnish with extra orange zest. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To get the right texture, you need to mix carefully. Start by whisking dry ingredients well. This helps the bread rise nicely. When adding the wet mix, stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough. Aim for a soft batter with some lumps. This will keep it light and fluffy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is using cold butter. Softened butter blends better, giving a nice rise. Another mistake is skipping the zest. It adds a burst of flavor. Be sure to check your oven temperature, too. An oven that’s too hot can brown the bread too fast. Always use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
Decorating Suggestions for Presentation
For a lovely presentation, slice the bread neatly. Arrange the slices on a platter. Drizzle extra glaze over the top. Add fresh cranberries and orange slices for color. You can also sprinkle some extra orange zest on top. This not only looks pretty but adds a nice aroma, making your bread even more inviting.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of the bread. If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them to maintain their shape and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Cool Before Glazing: Allow the bread to cool completely before adding the glaze. This will prevent the glaze from melting and ensure it sets beautifully on the bread.
- Experiment with Zest: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding lemon or lime zest along with the orange zest for a more complex citrus profile.
Variations
Adding Nuts or Other Fruits
You can make this orange glazed cranberry bread even better. Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans. Just chop them up and fold them into the batter. You can also add other fruits. Dried cherries or blueberries work great. They add more flavor and texture. This way, you get a new taste each time you make it.
Gluten-Free Versions
If you need a gluten-free bread, it’s easy to change the recipe. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free too. This will keep the bread light and fluffy. Follow the rest of the recipe just like before. You will still enjoy the sweet and tangy taste.
Flavor Pairings for Additional Glazes
Want to switch up the glaze? You can add flavors to the basic glaze. Try lemon juice instead of orange juice for a zesty kick. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Mix these into the powdered sugar and juice. Drizzle your new glaze over the bread for fun flavors.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To keep your orange glazed cranberry bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Freezing Guidelines
Freezing your bread is easy. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. After that, add a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection. This bread can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Suggestions
To enjoy your bread warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Just heat slices for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoy it fresh!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in this recipe. Just remember to thaw them first. After thawing, drain off any extra liquid. This helps keep the batter from getting too wet. Frozen cranberries work well and still give a nice tart flavor. They also hold their shape during baking, making your bread look great.
How can I make this bread ahead of time?
To make this bread ahead of time, bake it and let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it fresh longer, freeze the bread. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before you serve it. This makes it easy for busy days or special events.
Is it possible to use different citrus fruits?
Yes, you can switch the orange for other citrus fruits. Lemon or lime zest and juice can add a fresh twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change. Lemon gives a bright taste, while lime adds a nice tang. Experiment with different fruits to find your favorite flavor combination.
This blog post covered key elements for a tasty bread recipe. We explored important ingredients, swaps, and their unique flavors. I shared step-by-step instructions, tips for great texture, and common mistakes you should avoid. We also looked at fun variations, smart storage tips, and answered your top questions. With this guide, you can create delicious bread that impresses everyone. Enjoy baking and make this recipe your ow

Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup orange juice
- 1 zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze)
- 1 zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the chopped cranberries to the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of orange juice in a small bowl until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and sprinkle with additional orange zest for garnish.


. To get that perfect soft and chewy texture, use room temperature butter. This helps create a great blend with the sugars. Cream the butter and sugars until they feel light and fluffy. Mix only until combined when adding flour. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies. Baking time is key too. Take them out when the edges turn golden but the centers still look soft. One common mistake is using cold butter. This won’t mix well and will affect the texture. Another issue is not measuring flour correctly. Too much flour makes cookies dry. Don’t skip the sea salt on top. It enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Cookies need space to spread. To keep cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They stay soft for days that way. For longer storage, freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well. When you want them warm, pop them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes. This brings back their soft, chewy goodness. You can also microwave them for about 10 seconds, but be careful not to overheat. Enjoy your cookies as they were meant to be! For more on making these cookies, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can choose between classic milk chocolate and rich dark chocolate. The classic version is sweet and creamy. It brings back childhood memories. Dark chocolate has a bold taste, with a hint of bitterness. I love using dark chocolate chips, especially those with 70% cocoa or more. They add depth and contrast to the sweet cookie dough. For a fun twist, mix both types of chocolate. This combo makes for a delightful surprise in every bite. Want to switch things up? Add nuts or spices to your cookies. Chopped walnuts or pecans give the cookies a nice crunch. They also add a warm, nutty flavor. You can also try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of sea salt. These additions elevate the taste. If you want a fruity twist, fold in some dried cherries or cranberries. This adds a chewy texture and a burst of flavor. Each option brings a new life to the classic recipe. You can easily modify this recipe for special diets. For a vegan option, replace the butter with coconut oil. Use flax eggs instead of chicken eggs. To make gluten-free cookies, swap all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour. These swaps work well and still taste great. You can experiment and find the best fit for your needs. Just remember, the texture might change slightly. For more ideas, check the Full Recipe related to adaptations. To keep your cookies soft and chewy, store them in an airtight container. Place a slice of bread in the container. The bread adds moisture and helps the cookies stay fresh. You can also use parchment paper between layers of cookies. This keeps them from sticking together. Freezing cookie dough is easy. First, scoop the dough into balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date and type of cookie. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies later. To thaw frozen cookie dough, move it from the freezer to the fridge overnight. If you need cookies fast, you can bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a minute or two to the baking time. For reheating baked cookies, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This brings back the soft, warm texture. Enjoy your homemade treats with every bite! Chocolate chip cookies stay fresh for about one week at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container to keep them soft. You can also store them in the fridge for longer life. Just remember, cold cookies might lose their soft feel. Yes, you can use oil instead of butter. The cookies may spread a bit more, but they will still taste great. Use a little less oil than the butter amount. For example, if the recipe calls for one cup of butter, use about three-quarters cup of oil. If your dough feels sticky, add a bit more flour. Start with one tablespoon and mix it in. Keep adding until the dough holds together but is still soft. You want it to be easy to scoop but not too wet. To get chewy cookies, use more brown sugar than white sugar. Brown sugar adds moisture. Also, try chilling the dough for at least an hour before baking. This helps the cookies stay thicker and chewier. You can find the full recipe for my decadent dark chocolate chip cookies to see all the tips in action! Now you know how to make the best chocolate chip cookies. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step baking, and tips for the perfect cookie. You can customize your cookies to fit any diet. Remember to store them properly to keep them fresh. With these tips, you can enjoy delicious cookies anytime. Happy baking!](https://dailydishlab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/fa49041d-95ac-4bc8-8fd4-5b20d3bd1dd4-768x768.webp)

. This article shared a simple recipe for Lemon Blueberry Scones. You learned essential tips for baking and storage. Feel free to customize flavors or make vegan versions. Don’t skip the presentation tips; they’ll impress your guests. Enjoy your fresh scones warm or store them for later. Baking these treats brings joy and delicious taste. Dive in and make your kitchen a cozy place! Your scone adventure starts now!](https://dailydishlab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cd2019bc-2f4d-4b4f-ad7f-d60a9cca62a5-768x768.webp)


