Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread is a delightful treat that brings together the bright flavors of oranges and tart cranberries in a moist, tender loaf. This bread is perfect for sharing during the holiday season, breakfast gatherings, or any time you crave a comforting slice. The addition of a sweet orange glaze elevates it, making every bite irresistible. With its beautiful golden crust and aromatic spices, this bread not only tastes fantastic but also fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as a quick snack throughout the week, Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients about Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons orange zest
• 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons orange juice

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you’re looking to tweak the recipe, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version. For a dairy-free option, replace the buttermilk with almond milk combined with a little vinegar, mimicking the acidity needed for rise. You can also use maple syrup or honey instead of granulated sugar for a different sweetness.

How to Make Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

Step 1: Prepare the loaf pan and streusel mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your bread doesn’t stick. Next, prepare the streusel topping. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Then, cut in the cold, cubed butter using a fork or your fingers until the mixture resembles crumbs about the size of peas. Once ready, place this streusel mixture in the refrigerator while you make the bread dough.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk together until well combined. This will ensure that your bread rises evenly and has a perfect texture.

Step 3: Mix wet ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together one large egg, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Add the buttermilk, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and 2 teaspoons of orange zest. Whisk these ingredients until they are thoroughly blended and smooth. The combination of sugars with the egg adds moisture and depth to your bread.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the bowl containing the dry mixture. Stir everything together gently until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Take care not to overmix, or the bread may become tough. Finally, gently fold in the cranberries, and if you desire, the chopped pecans or walnuts.

Step 5: Bake the bread

Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Take the streusel mixture out of the fridge and sprinkle it over the top, pressing it down lightly to help it stick. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Keep an eye on it, and if it starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking. You’ll know the bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and glaze

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. For the glaze, whisk together 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set before slicing.

How to Serve Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

Best ways to serve Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread is delightful on its own, but it pairs well with various toppings. You can serve it fresh, as a breakfast loaf, or slice it for afternoon snacks. The sweetness of the orange glaze complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully. You can also warm each slice lightly in a toaster for a cozy texture.

Serving suggestions or pairings

Consider serving this bread with a dollop of butter or a spread of cream cheese to elevate the flavor further. It goes wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve it as part of a brunch spread alongside other pastries, fresh fruit, or yogurt. This makes it a versatile dish perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just a cozy Sunday morning.

How to Store Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

Proper storage methods

To keep your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can store it in an airtight container. Leaving it at room temperature is fine for up to one day, but after that, refrigeration is recommended to maintain its good condition and moisture.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you have leftover bread, you can enjoy it warm. Simply slice it and pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. If you want to freeze the bread, slice it first, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and then store it in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw at room temperature or warm it again when ready to eat.

Tips to Make Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense loaf. Make sure to combine the wet and dry ingredients just until mixed. Also, be cautious with the baking time; each oven varies. Check for doneness by using a toothpick.

Helpful tips for better results

To enhance the bread’s flavor, use freshly grated orange zest rather than bottled for a more vibrant taste. If you’re using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding them to the batter, as they may turn the batter too liquidy. Lastly, allowing the bread to cool completely before glazing will give you a shiny finish and prevent the glaze from soaking in.

Variation of Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

Feeling adventurous? Try adding different spices like nutmeg or allspice for added warmth. You could also incorporate citrus fruits like lemon zest or lime zest for a twist on the orange flavor. For those looking for a sweeter bread, consider folding in some chocolate chips or dried fruits such as raisins or apricots for additional texture and flavor.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For a gluten-free loaf, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based butter and milk alternatives. You can also use agave syrup or maple syrup to substitute sugars for a healthier option.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread has risen unevenly or is dense, it may be due to overmixing, old baking soda, or incorrect measurements. Make sure your ingredients are fresh and measured properly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This bread can be made a day or two in advance. Just wait until it’s completely cooled before wrapping it up for storage.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for about 5 minutes. For the brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses for a similar flavor.

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