Delicious Cranberry Orange Loaf

Name: Delicious Cranberry Orange Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 10 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh cranberries (roughly chopped); 1 tablespoon orange zest (from one orange); 3/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed); 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg (beaten)

70 min 10 slices Easy

All Recipes

A moist and zesty loaf bursting with fresh cranberries and orange zest, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Prep

15 min

Cook

55 min

Total

70 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

This cranberry orange loaf is a delightful treat that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweet, citrusy notes of orange. It's an ideal recipe for those who love a moist and flavourful loaf with a vibrant twist. Our version uses fresh cranberries for an extra juicy burst in every bite, complemented by the zest of a fresh orange to enhance the citrus aroma. Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner, this loaf is straightforward to make and perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.

Instructions

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Pro tip: Use a non-stick spray for easy release.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Prepare cranberries and zest

Fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest until well distributed.

Pro tip: Coating cranberries in flour helps prevent them from sinking.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the orange juice, vegetable oil, and beaten egg.

Combine mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Pro tip: Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

Transfer to loaf pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake the loaf

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil.

Cool and serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure to use fresh cranberries for a juicy burst of flavour.
Don't skip the orange zest—it's key for that citrusy aroma.
Let the loaf cool fully before slicing for clean cuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cranberry orange loaf?

A cranberry orange loaf is a baked bread that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness and citrus flavour of orange.

How many calories in a cranberry orange loaf slice?

Each slice of cranberry orange loaf contains approximately 230 calories.

Can I use dried cranberries?

Yes, you can substitute fresh cranberries with dried ones, but reduce the amount to 3/4 cup and consider soaking them in orange juice first.

How do I store a cranberry orange loaf?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make this loaf gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of this cranberry orange loaf warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of butter or cream cheese. For make-ahead convenience, you can bake the loaf a day in advance, as its flavour enhances overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.