Best Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking for a deliciously moist, flavor-packed treat, this Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with fresh cranberries and topped with a vibrant plant-based orange glaze, this bread offers the perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors, making it an irresistible snack or dessert all year round. Whether for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a festive gathering, this Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and fresh flavors: The use of fresh cranberries combined with zesty orange juice gives this bread a lively, refreshing taste.
• Moist and tender texture: A perfect crumb that stays soft and delicious, thanks to the careful balance of wet and dry ingredients.
• Simple yet impressive: Minimal ingredients come together easily, making it approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Plant-based glaze boost: The orange glaze adds a vibrant shine and extra burst of citrusy flavor without overwhelming the bread.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for breakfast, snacks, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze are simple but essential, each contributing to the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From fresh cranberries adding tart bursts to the naturally sweet glaze, everything comes together beautifully.

• Fresh cranberries: The star ingredient that delivers tartness and a delightful pop with every bite.
• All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet soft base for the bread texture.
• Baking powder: Helps the bread rise and become perfectly fluffy.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread just enough to balance the cranberries’ tang.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without heaviness.
• Plant-based milk: Adds moisture and richness without dairy.
• Vanilla extract (natural): Brings aromatic warmth and depth to the bread.
• Orange zest and juice: Key for a fresh citrus flavor that complements the cranberries perfectly.
• Natural gelling agent: Used in the glaze to create a beautiful, glossy finish.
• Powdered sugar: Sweet base for the orange glaze that makes it silky smooth.

Variations for Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

This recipe is wonderfully flexible and can easily be tailored to your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re craving more texture, different flavors, or looking to add your signature touch, these ideas will inspire you.

• Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and extra flavor complexity.
• Spiced version: Incorporate cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to warm up the flavor, especially during cooler months.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend keeping texture intact.
• Extra zest: Mix in lemon zest along with orange for an enhanced citrus punch.
• Fruit medley: Combine fresh cranberries with blueberries or chopped apples for a mixed berry orchard vibe.

How to Make Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to ensure even distribution. This forms the base of your bread and ensures it rises evenly.

Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine vegetable oil, plant-based milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract (natural), orange zest, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Stir until everything is well incorporated and start smelling that inviting citrus aroma.

Step 3: Combine wet and dry mixtures

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can affect the bread’s tenderness, so be careful to stop once there are no large lumps.

Step 4: Fold in fresh cranberries

Gently fold in the fresh cranberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter to guarantee every slice bursts with fruity tartness.

Step 5: Bake the bread

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the bread cool completely in the pan to set before glazing.

Step 6: Prepare the orange glaze

Whisk powdered sugar with freshly squeezed orange juice and a natural gelling agent until smooth and glossy. Adjust the consistency by adding more juice or sugar to get the perfect pourable glaze.

Step 7: Glaze the bread

Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the orange glaze generously over the top. Allow it to set for 15 to 20 minutes to achieve a beautiful shiny finish that enhances the visual appeal and adds a sweet citrus coating.

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

• Use fresh cranberries: They provide the best texture and flavor contrast compared to dried or frozen.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep the bread soft and tender.
• Test doneness with a toothpick: Ensures the bread is perfectly baked without drying out.
• Let the bread cool fully: Crucial for the glaze to set properly and avoid melting off.
• Zest your own oranges: Fresh zest packs more flavor than pre-grated versions.

How to Serve Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Garnishes

Top slices with extra orange zest or a few whole cranberries to add color and an inviting fresh look that matches the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea, a creamy plant-based yogurt, or a drizzle of almond butter for a wholesome snack or breakfast treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bread and arrange on a decorative platter for brunch, or pack into gift boxes with a delicate bow for a thoughtful homemade gift that anyone would love to receive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep the Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag; freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or toast lightly to bring back the freshness.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to revive softness and bring out the flavors. Avoid overheating to maintain bread’s moist texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just thaw and drain any excess liquid before folding them into the batter to prevent extra moisture.

Is the glaze necessary?

The glaze adds a lovely citrusy sweetness and shine but you can enjoy the bread without it for a more understated flavor.

Can I use other citrus fruits for the glaze?

Absolutely! Lemon or grapefruit juice can be great alternatives that bring a different but delicious twist.

How long does this bread stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, this bread remains fresh and moist for up to three days, and up to a week when refrigerated.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe uses plant-based milk and natural ingredients, making it fully vegan-friendly as well!

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze is a true crowd-pleaser that combines bright, fresh flavors with moist, tender crumb and a gorgeous citrus finish. It’s simple to prepare but leaves a lasting impression perfect for sharing with friends or savoring with your favorite cup of tea. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find a new go-to treat that fills your kitchen with delightful scents and joyous flavors every time.

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