Irresistible Spiced Cranberry Orange Loaf Recipe to Try

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by Liora

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The aroma of a freshly baked Spiced cranberry orange loaf wafts through the air, a dance of sweet and tart that tickles your senses. Imagine slicing through its golden-brown crust, revealing the moist interior bursting with vibrant cranberries and zesty orange. cinnamon maple baked pears It’s like a hug in loaf form, perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings.

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This delightful treat stirs up memories of holiday baking marathons with my family, where flour fights were as common as measuring cups. There’s something magical about sharing this loaf with loved ones, making it an ideal centerpiece for brunches or potlucks that will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The spiced cranberry orange loaf is easy to prepare, making it beginner-friendly yet impressive enough for guests.
  • Its harmonious blend of flavors will awaken your taste buds and leave you craving more.
  • The stunning colors make it a beautiful addition to any table setting.
  • Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or a delightful snack anytime!

Ingredients for Spiced cranberry orange loaf

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it serves as the base of our loaf.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweeten your loaf just right; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
  • Baking Powder: Essential for that perfect rise; make sure it’s fresh for optimal results.
  • Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice; feel free to add nutmeg for extra depth.
  • Fresh Orange Zest: The zest gives a bright citrus flavor; don’t skip this step!
  • Fresh Cranberries: Choose vibrant berries; they provide the tartness that balances the sweetness.
  • Eggs: They bind the ingredients together; use large eggs for best consistency.
  • Vegetable Oil: Keeps your loaf moist; can substitute with melted butter if preferred.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Spiced cranberry orange loaf

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a standard loaf pan and grease it lightly with oil or cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk them together until they look like a sandy beach—well combined but not too coarse.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, and fresh orange zest until combined. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients slowly while stirring gently. You want it mixed just enough so that no dry flour is visible—don’t overdo it or you’ll have tough bread instead of fluffy joy!

Step 4: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in those beautiful fresh cranberries until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. Picture them like little jewels nestled among the dough—exciting!

Step 5: Bake Away

Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slice thick pieces and enjoy warm or at room temperature—the ultimate comfort food experience!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with some honey or serve plain for an equally delicious experience! Enjoy every bite of this spiced cranberry orange loaf—trust me; you’ll be back for more!

You Must Know

  • This spiced cranberry orange loaf is a delightful twist on traditional bread.
  • It combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges, making it perfect for cozy mornings or as a festive treat.
  • The aroma alone will make your family gather around!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the dry ingredients first, then blend in the wet ones for a smooth batter. Pour into a loaf pan and bake until golden brown.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cranberries for blueberries or nuts for an extra crunch. Add some vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to make this loaf uniquely yours. Customize it based on what flavors sing to you!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover spiced cranberry orange loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds or enjoy it cold—it’s delicious either way!

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve the perfect texture, avoid overmixing the batter; lumps are okay!
  • Use fresh cranberries if possible for vibrant flavor.
  • Let the loaf cool completely before slicing to maintain its shape and moisture.

The first time I baked this loaf, my friends declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Honestly, they might have just been hungry, but it left me beaming with pride!

FAQs

What ingredients are needed for spiced cranberry orange loaf?

To make a delicious spiced cranberry orange loaf, gather the following ingredients: fresh cranberries, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, sugar, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract. delicious apple cinnamon casserole You may also want to include chopped nuts for added texture. These ingredients combine to create a wonderfully moist loaf that offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice.

How long does it take to bake spiced cranberry orange loaf?

Baking a spiced cranberry orange loaf typically takes about 60 to 70 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, the actual baking time may vary depending on your oven and the specific size of your loaf pan. To ensure it is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your loaf is ready to enjoy. For more inspiration, check out this easy baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.

Can I freeze spiced cranberry orange loaf?

Yes! Freezing spiced cranberry orange loaf is an excellent way to preserve its freshness. Allow the loaf to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to three months. pumpkin spice overnight oats When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

What are some variations of spiced cranberry orange loaf?

You can easily customize your spiced cranberry orange loaf by adding different flavors or ingredients. Consider incorporating chocolate chips for a sweeter twist or using walnuts instead of pecans for crunch. You can also substitute dried cranberries or other dried fruits like raisins or apricots for a unique flavor profile. chai spiced granola clusters Experimenting with spices such as ginger or cardamom can add depth to this delightful recipe.

Conclusion for Spiced cranberry orange loaf

In summary, making a spiced cranberry orange loaf involves simple yet flavorful ingredients that create an aromatic treat perfect for any occasion. The balance of tart cranberries and zesty oranges enhances the overall taste while spices elevate its warmth. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or after freezing and thawing, this loaf remains moist and delicious. Embrace this recipe as a delightful addition to your baking repertoire!

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Spiced Cranberry Orange Loaf


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  • Author: Liora
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Spiced Cranberry Orange Loaf, a perfect blend of sweet and tart that creates a comforting treat for any occasion. This moist loaf, filled with vibrant cranberries and zesty orange, is simple to prepare and visually stunning. Whether enjoyed warm for breakfast or as a festive dessert, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Zest of 1 large orange
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan lightly.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until combined.
  3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients while stirring gently until just combined.
  4. Fold in the fresh cranberries carefully.
  5. Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and spread evenly.
  6. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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