Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brightens your day, then look no further! The Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf is a recipe that has warmed my heart and filled my home with sweet aromas for years. This loaf combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange, creating a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something comforting or family gatherings where everyone will rave about dessert.

What makes this loaf so special is how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or savoring it as leftovers, each slice feels like a warm hug. So, let’s get started on this cherished recipe that brings joy to any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious loaf baking in the oven in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The balance of tart and sweet flavors makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Treat: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this loaf fits perfectly into any meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake this loaf ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!
• Freezer Friendly: It freezes well, so you can always have a slice ready for when cravings strike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for your Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf is part of the fun! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use different fruits: Swap out cranberries for blueberries or even chopped apples for a different twist.
• Make it vegan: Substitute yogurt with plant-based yogurt and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.
• Spice it up: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to bring warmth and depth to every bite.

How to Make Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your loaf bakes evenly from start to finish. While that’s heating up, grab your favorite mixing bowl!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In one bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial because it helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour. It sets the stage for a beautifully risen loaf!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your loaf—don’t rush through this part!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; we want our loaf light and fluffy! Once combined, fold in those vibrant cranberries.

Step 5: Bake Your Loaf

Pour your batter into a greased 9-inch loaf pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. While it bakes, enjoy that wonderful smell wafting through your kitchen!

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While your loaf cools slightly in its pan, mix together sugar and confectioners’ sugar with fresh orange juice in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze will add sweetness that complements the tartness of the cranberries perfectly.

Step 7: Drizzle on That Glaze

Once cooled enough to touch but still warm, drizzle your glaze over the top of the loaf. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing into this beautiful creation.

Enjoy every bite of this homemade Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf—it’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

Baking is a joyful journey, and with these tips, you’ll make your Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf even more delightful!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries and freshly squeezed orange juice enhance the loaf’s flavor and give it that bright, vibrant taste. If you use frozen cranberries, ensure they are thawed and rinsed to maintain texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined will ensure a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so stir gently when adding the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your loaf about 5-10 minutes before the end of the baking time by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

• Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its structure. Slicing too soon can result in squished edges!

• Experiment with Glaze Thickness: Adjust the amount of orange juice in your glaze to achieve your desired consistency. A thicker glaze will have a more pronounced sweetness, while a thinner one will soak into the loaf for an added moisture boost.

How to Serve Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf

Serving your Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf can elevate its charm! Here are some ideas to delight your guests and family.

Garnishes

• Orange Zest: A sprinkle of fresh orange zest on top adds an extra burst of citrus flavor and makes for a beautiful presentation.

• Chopped Nuts: Lightly toasted walnuts or pecans can provide a lovely crunch that complements the soft texture of the loaf.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt Parfait: Pair slices of your loaf with layers of yogurt, granola, and fresh berries. This combination offers a refreshing contrast and a healthful balance.

• Herbed Cream Cheese Spread: A light herbed cream cheese spread creates an indulgent accompaniment that aligns beautifully with the citrus notes of the loaf.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits brings brightness to your plate and pairs wonderfully with the tartness of cranberries.

• Hot Tea or Coffee: Serve alongside your favorite warm beverage—like herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee—for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack experience.

Enjoy every slice of this delicious Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf! It’s sure to brighten up any gathering or quiet moment at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some helpful tips for storing, freezing, and reheating your delicious loaf.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the loaf to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store the wrapped loaf at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the loaf before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date for reference.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat a slice, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a quick reheat, pop slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delightful loaf? Here are some common queries!

Can I use frozen cranberries for Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf?

Absolutely! Fresh or frozen cranberries both work well. Just be sure to thaw and rinse any frozen cranberries before using them in your recipe.

How can I make Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf gluten-free?

To make this loaf gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that you trust. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I adjust the sweetness of my Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf?

Yes! You can reduce the sugar content slightly if you prefer a less sweet loaf. Alternatively, you might add a bit more orange juice for added natural sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf brings joy and warmth into your kitchen! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with comforting flavors that create lasting memories. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy morning or sharing it with loved ones, I’m excited for you to try this delightful treat. Happy baking!