This is a copycat version of my favorite bakery’s cranberry loaf and this one turned out even better – more cranberries and the orange glaze makes it truly special. You’ll love every bite. This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy. We love cranberry recipes during the holidays like Sugared Cranberries, Cranberry Bundt Cake, and of course this Cranberry Bread recipe. If you love tangy and juicy cranberries, this recipe is a must-try!
Cranberry Bread Video Tutorial
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Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread
Flour – use all-purpose to give the bread structure Baking powder – leavening to make the loaf rise Salt – balances the sweetness Milk – best at room temperature Orange zest and juice – be sure to zest the orange before juicing it. Reserve a teaspoon of zest for the glaze. Butter – Adds moisture to the loaf. Use unsalted butter softened at room temperature. Sugar – to balance the tanginess of the cranberries Eggs – give the bread a moist, tender crumb Cranberries – rinsed and dried then tossed in 1/2 Tbsp of flour to keep them from sinking in the batter (see substitution options in common questions section)
How to Make Cranberry Bread
Pro Tip: Tossing cranberries in a little flour coats them lightly and prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf as it bakes. This ensures cranberries are evenly disbursed in the finished loaf.
The Best Glaze for Cranberry Bread
Orange and cranberry are complimentarily flavored just like peanut butter and jelly. Topping the cranberry bread with orange juice and the orange zest-infused glaze makes this bread irresistible. I’m not sure if it’s breakfast or dessert but I’ve served it both ways. All you need for this easy 3-ingredient glaze is:
Powdered sugar – I spoon it into the cup and level the top for a consistent measure. Orange juice – Freshly squeezed is best and don’t worry about straining. A little pulp won’t hurt the bread. Orange zest – do not skip the zest. It adds deep orange floral notes to the glaze.
Common Questions
This sweet bread is total comfort food. All you need is a mug of tea or coffee to go with a thick, fresh slice of cranberry bread.
Make-Ahead
Room Temperature – wrap cranberry bread loosely in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refrigerate – you can cover and store the loaf in the refrigerator for up to a week. Freezing – cool the loaf completely to room temperature then place in a freezer-safe zip bag, removing any excess air. Freeze up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Pro Tip: Cranberries are only available for a season in grocery stores so buy extra and store them in the freezer so you can keep enjoying this cranberry bread year-round.
More Cranberry Recipes
These are our best cranberry recipes using both fresh and dried cranberries.
Cranberry Sauce Sparkling Cranberry Pineapple Punch Cranberry Orange Scones Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries Cranberry Apple Danish
