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Amazing Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Amazing Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

5.1 from 9 reviews

This Amazing Cranberry Orange Bread combines the tartness of canned cranberries with bright, zesty orange flavor to create a moist, flavorful quick bread perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, this bread is a festive and delicious treat ideal for holiday gatherings or any time you’re craving a sweet and tangy loaf.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs, slightly beaten
  • 8 ounces canned whole cranberries in sauce
  • 1 large orange, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons applesauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or spray a standard bread loaf pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined. Set aside.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the beaten eggs, canned whole cranberries with sauce, orange zest and juice, applesauce, almond extract, and vegetable oil. Mix well until fully integrated.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixtures together until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
  5. Pour Batter Into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
  6. Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  7. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
  8. Optional Muffin Variation: To make muffins, pour the batter into greased muffin tins about 2/3 full each and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-23 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Notes

  • Use canned whole cranberries in sauce for sweetness and moisture; fresh cranberries will alter texture and moisture content.
  • Adding applesauce helps keep the bread moist while reducing oil content.
  • Almond extract pairs beautifully with orange and cranberry flavors but can be omitted if allergic.
  • Do not overmix the batter to ensure tender bread.
  • This bread freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Make ahead: Prepare the batter the night before and bake fresh in the morning for a quick breakfast.

Nutrition

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