Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brightens any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! This Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors that will warm your heart and fill your home with an irresistible aroma. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a lovely balance, making this loaf perfect for everything from cozy breakfasts to afternoon snacks. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to share it with friends and family!

This loaf brings back memories of sweet moments spent in the kitchen, where every slice feels like a hug. It’s easy to whip up, so whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend, this recipe fits right into your life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can have this loaf baking in no time!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet-tart combination is loved by both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This loaf stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or even a snack—anytime is the right time for this loaf!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You likely have most of these in your pantry already. Each one plays an essential role in creating that moist texture and vibrant flavor profile.

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

This Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Citrus Twist: Substitute lemon zest for orange zest for a different citrus flavor.
• Dried Fruits: Mix in some dried cherries or apricots along with the cranberries for extra sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warmth and depth.

How to Make Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your loaf bakes evenly and achieves that beautiful golden crust we all love.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour. Set aside while we move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, combine yogurt, sugar, eggs, grated orange zest, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Whisk until smooth. The yogurt adds moisture and richness while keeping the loaf tender.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Fold in the cranberries along with 1 tablespoon of flour dusted on them. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom of your loaf.

Step 5: Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch loaf pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula for an even bake. Now it’s time to bake this beauty!

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly; resist peeking too early!

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While your loaf cools slightly in its pan, whisk together sugar and confectioners’ sugar with enough fresh orange juice to reach your desired consistency for drizzling.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve

Once your loaf has cooled completely, drizzle on that luscious glaze. Slice into this delectable Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf and enjoy every bite! Whether it’s shared at brunch or savored alone with tea, each moment will feel special.

Enjoy baking this lovely treat!

Pro Tips for Making Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these simple tips, you’ll elevate your Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf to perfection!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your eggs and yogurt to room temperature ensures they mix more evenly into the batter, resulting in a lighter loaf.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently folding in the dry ingredients helps maintain the loaf’s tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we want to avoid.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This keeps your loaf from becoming too dense due to excess flour.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your loaf at around 50 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allowing your loaf to cool fully before adding the glaze prevents it from melting away and ensures a beautiful finish.

How to Serve Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

Serving your Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf is all about presentation and pairing! Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Orange Zest: A sprinkle of additional orange zest on top adds a pop of color and an extra burst of citrus aroma.
• Chopped Fresh Mint: A few mint leaves not only look beautiful but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet glaze.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored Greek yogurt on the side adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the loaf.
• Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and complements the flavors of cranberries and oranges beautifully.
• Herbal Tea: The soothing warmth of herbal tea pairs perfectly with this loaf, making for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat.
• Cottage Cheese with Berries: Creamy cottage cheese topped with fresh berries adds protein and brings another layer of flavor that pairs well with your loaf.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy every slice of this delightful Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring that you have a delightful treat ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Slice the loaf before freezing, making it easier to grab a piece later.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply remove a slice from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm slice, microwave it on medium power for 15-20 seconds or heat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Got questions? Don’t worry; we’ve got answers!

Can I use frozen cranberries in my Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and rinse them before adding them to your batter.

How do I achieve the perfect glaze for my Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf?

To get that beautiful glaze, mix sifted confectioners’ sugar with fresh orange juice until you reach your desired consistency. Drizzle it over the cooled loaf for a delightful finish!

Can I substitute yogurt in the Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf recipe?

Yes! If you don’t have yogurt, you can use applesauce or a non-dairy yogurt alternative as substitutes without compromising moisture!

How long does the Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf stay fresh?

When stored properly, this loaf will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days and can be refrigerated for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf brings joy and warmth into your home just as it has mine! With its vibrant flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a favorite treat. Enjoy making this delicious loaf, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Happy baking!