Brighten your day with this Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze, a delightful combination of tangy cranberries, zesty orange, and a sweet glaze. Perfect for holiday breakfasts, afternoon tea, or gifting, this moist, flavorful loaf is easy to make and sure to impress. Follow this step-by-step recipe, complete with tips, variations, and storage advice, to create a crowd-pleasing treat.

---

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread

For the Bread

• 1½ cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, divided
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons grated orange zest (from 1 large orange)
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1½ cups cranberries (fresh or frozen, thawed and rinsed)

For the Orange Syrup

• ⅓ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice

---

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, tapping out excess flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, sift together 1½ cups flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until smooth.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 4: Add the Cranberries

1. In a small bowl, toss the cranberries with 1 tablespoon flour (this prevents them from sinking in the batter).
2. Gently fold the floured cranberries into the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
3. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet.

Step 6: Prepare the Orange Syrup

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
3. Poke holes across the top and sides of the warm loaf using a toothpick or skewer.
4. Brush the syrup over the loaf, allowing it to soak in. Repeat until all the syrup is absorbed. Let the loaf cool completely.

Step 7: Make and Apply the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk sifted powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons orange juice. Add more juice, a few drops at a time, until the glaze is thick but pourable.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf, letting it drip down the sides.
3. Allow the glaze to set for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

---

Variations for Cranberry Orange Bread

• Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra texture.
• Spiced Twist: Incorporate ½ teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for warm, cozy flavors.
• Dried Fruit Swap: Replace half the cranberries with dried cranberries or raisins for a sweeter bite.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Vegan Version: Substitute yogurt with plant-based yogurt, eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), and use a vegan-friendly sugar.

Explore more recipes like our Lemon Blueberry Scones or Pumpkin Spice Bread.

---

Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Bread

• Prevent Sinking Cranberries: Coating the cranberries in flour ensures they stay evenly distributed.
• Use Fresh Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest adds vibrant flavor; avoid the bitter white pith.
• Check Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking at 45 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a smooth finish.

---

Storage and Freezing Instructions

• Room Temperature: Wrap the glazed loaf tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: Wrap the unglazed loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and glaze before serving.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Zesty: The tangy cranberries and orange zest create a refreshing, vibrant flavor.
• Moist and Tender: Yogurt and oil ensure a soft, tender crumb.
• Perfect for Gifting: A beautiful, festive loaf for holiday presents or potlucks.
• Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack with tea or coffee.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Breakfast: Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a festive morning treat.
• Afternoon Snack: Pair with a smear of butter or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
• Dessert: Offer as a lighter alternative to heavy chocolate desserts.
• Gift Idea: Wrap in festive packaging for a thoughtful homemade gift.

---

FAQs About Cranberry Orange Bread

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, thaw and rinse frozen cranberries before using. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?

Grease and flour the pan thoroughly, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for similar results.

How long does the glaze take to set?

The glaze sets in about 15 minutes at room temperature.

---

Nutritional Information (Approximate, Per Slice)

• Calories: 250–300 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Servings: 10–12 slices

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.

---

Subscribe for More Comfort Food Recipes!

Get the latest cozy recipes delivered to your inbox. Sign up today!

[Insert your subscription form here]

We use your personal data for interest-based advertising, as outlined in our Privacy Notice.

---

This Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze is a festive, flavorful addition to any table. Its bright citrus notes and tart cranberries make it a versatile treat for holidays, brunches, or gifting. Bake it today and enjoy a slice of comfort!

Discover more baked goods like our Lemon Blueberry Scones or Pumpkin Spice Bread.

---