Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brightens your day, look no further than this Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf. This recipe is close to my heart, as it brings together the tartness of cranberries and the zesty sweetness of oranges in every slice. It’s perfect for everything from cozy weekend brunches to casual family gatherings. The moment you slice into this loaf, you’ll see why it has become a cherished favorite in so many homes.

What makes this loaf truly special is its balance of flavors and textures. The moist crumb paired with a luscious citrus glaze creates an experience that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a smear of butter, each bite is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves the sweet-tart combination of cranberries and orange; it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake this loaf ahead of time and store it, making it an ideal option for busy mornings.
• Delicious Flavor: Each slice bursts with fresh flavors that brighten up any meal or snack time.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf is part of the fun! All you need are some simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Loaf

• 1 1/2 c + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (divided)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 c plain whole-milk yogurt
• 1 c sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp grated orange zest
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 c vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 c cranberries (fresh or frozen, thawed and rinsed)
• 1/3 c freshly squeezed orange juice

For the Glaze

• 1/3 c sugar
• 1 c confectioners’ sugar (sifted)
• 2 to 3 tbsp fresh orange juice

Variations

One of the best parts about baking is getting creative! This Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf is flexible enough to accommodate different tastes. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix in Other Fruits: Substitute half the cranberries with blueberries or chopped apples for a fruity twist.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the comforting flavors.
• Try Different Flours: Use whole wheat flour or almond flour for a different texture and nutritional boost.

How to Make Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your loaf will bake evenly, creating that perfect golden crust we all love.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a 9-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will help your bread release easily after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour (save just one tablespoon for later), baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your loaf.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

Step 6: Add Cranberries

Toss your cranberries in the reserved tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom while baking.

Step 7: Pour Into Pan & Bake

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While your loaf cools slightly, prepare the glaze by mixing confectioners’ sugar with fresh orange juice until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more juice if needed.

Step 9: Glaze Your Loaf

Once cooled slightly but still warm, drizzle the glaze over your loaf. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing—if you can resist that long!

And there you have it—a deliciously moist Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf ready for sharing (or enjoying all by yourself!). Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and vibrant oranges make a world of difference in flavor. They enhance the loaf’s taste and ensure that every bite is packed with brightness.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the dry ingredients will help maintain a light and airy texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, taking away from that tender crumb you’re aiming for.
• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. This ensures your loaf is perfectly baked without being dry.
• Cool before glazing: Allow the loaf to cool completely before adding the glaze. This helps it adhere better and prevents it from melting away into a puddle of sweetness.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra layer of warmth. These spices pair beautifully with cranberries and orange, creating a festive flavor profile.

How to Serve Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

Serving your Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf can be just as enjoyable as baking it! Here are some fun ideas to present this delicious treat.

Garnishes

• Fresh orange slices: Add thin slices of fresh orange on top of the loaf for an inviting touch and added citrus aroma.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint can brighten up your presentation and add a pop of color.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt on the side adds richness and balances out the sweetness of the loaf, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits complements the tartness of cranberries beautifully while providing a colorful contrast on your plate.
• Herbal tea: Serve alongside a warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, which enhances relaxation while enjoying this delightful treat.
• Cheese platter: A small cheese platter with mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese creates an elegant pairing that contrasts nicely with the sweet loaf.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to share your Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf in style! Enjoy creating memories around this delicious dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf is not only a delight to enjoy fresh but also makes for an excellent meal prep option. You can easily whip it up in advance, ensuring that you have a delicious treat ready whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the loaf to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the loaf before freezing for easy serving later.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove from the freezer and let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave until heated through.
• Serve with a drizzle of fresh orange juice for added flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this recipe.

Can I use frozen cranberries for the Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw and rinse them before adding them to your batter for the best results.

How do I store leftovers of the Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf?

Store any leftover loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices.

What can I substitute for yogurt in the Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf?

You can substitute plain yogurt with equal parts of sour cream or a non-dairy yogurt alternative if you prefer. Both will yield similar moisture and texture.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make the Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf as much as I do! It’s such a wonderful recipe that brings warmth and happiness into any kitchen. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it yourself, each slice is sure to brighten your day. Happy baking!