Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze

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This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is a golden, buttery loaf bursting with tart cranberries and bright citrus zest, drizzled with a silky-smooth orange glaze. It strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

The vibrant cranberries give this bread a beautiful jewel-toned pop, while the orange zest adds a refreshing aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. The glaze? A simple yet luxurious topping that enhances every bite without overpowering the natural fruit flavors. Moist, flavorful, and just indulgent enough.

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What Kind of Cranberries Should I Use?

Fresh or frozen cranberries are best for this bread. They provide that juicy burst of tartness that dried cranberries just can’t match. If you only have dried on hand, rehydrate them in orange juice for 15 minutes before using. Avoid sweetened dried cranberries if possible—they’ll throw off the balance of flavors.

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Ingredients for the Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze

All-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the bread while keeping it tender.

Baking powder – Gives the bread a beautiful lift.

Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.

Unsalted butter – Adds richness and a soft crumb. Use it at room temperature for even mixing.

Granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread and helps with the golden crust.

Eggs – Bind the ingredients and give the bread structure.

Orange zest & juice – Brighten the loaf with citrusy depth.

Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.

Sour cream or Greek yogurt – Makes the crumb incredibly moist.

Fresh cranberries – The star ingredient, providing tart bursts throughout.

Powdered sugar & orange juice (for glaze) – Create a smooth, citrusy glaze that seeps slightly into the top of the loaf.

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How To Make the Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Bring it All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the cranberries with a spatula—don’t overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth, then drizzle generously over the top.

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How to Serve and Store Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze

This bread is best served at room temperature when the glaze has set and the citrus flavors have melded into the moist crumb. Slice it thick for breakfast with a pat of butter or serve with afternoon tea as a sweet treat.

To store, wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or foil and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Let frozen slices thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but it’s recommended to soak them in orange juice for about 15 minutes to plump them up and reduce the chewiness.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Results may vary slightly in texture.

How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. The top should be golden brown and firm to the touch.

Can I make muffins instead?

Yes! Simply divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to revive the texture.

Can I double the glaze for extra sweetness?

Definitely! If you’re a glaze lover, feel free to double the glaze recipe and drizzle more on top or serve it on the side.

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Want More Bread Ideas?

If this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze stole your heart, here are a few more bakes you’ll want to try next:

• Triple Chocolate Banana Bread for a rich, dessert-like twist.
• Healthy Banana Oatmeal Muffins that are perfect for weekday breakfasts.
• Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast if you’re in the mood for something indulgent and cozy.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding for fruity dessert comfort.
• Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread for the ultimate holiday party centerpiece.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the glaze? Add nuts? Or sneak in extra zest?

I love seeing your creations and hearing the ways you make each recipe your own. And if you want even more everyday baking inspiration, follow along on Pinterest @LifeWithNinaRecipes for fresh ideas every week.

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