There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the moment you pull a loaf of Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread from the oven. The sweet, citrusy aroma fills your kitchen and wraps around you like a warm hug, instantly transporting you to cozy mornings spent with loved ones. As you slice into the bread, the vibrant orange glaze sparkles, perfectly complementing the tart bursts of cranberries nestled within each fluffy bite.

Whether you’re looking to shake up your breakfast routine or impress guests at your next brunch gathering, this recipe is your answer. It’s a quick and easy way to whip up a delightful treat that balances sweetness and tartness seamlessly. Plus, with options for customizing the flavors, it’s a versatile addition to your baking repertoire. Let’s get ready to bring some joy into your kitchen with this deliciously comforting bread!

Why is Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread a Must-Try?

Nostalgic aroma: Few things compare to the heavenly scent of this bread wafting through your home, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Simple & quick: Perfectly suited for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans, it comes together in a snap!
Flavorful balance: The harmony of tart cranberries and sweet orange glaze creates a taste sensation you won’t forget.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap in your favorite berries or nuts, making this recipe infinitely adaptable!
Perfect for sharing: A stunning centerpiece that begs to be sliced and shared with loved ones, this bread will undoubtedly bring smiles all around.
Take it up a notch by pairing it with a warm cup of tea or coffee, just like you can with my delightful White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies for an indulgent treat!

Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Ingredients

For the Bread
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the bread; swap with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of cranberries; feel free to reduce for a less sweet bread.
• Baking Powder – Ensures the bread rises; always check for freshness before using.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; consider using sea salt for a unique twist.
• Eggs – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
• Milk – Keeps the bread tender; almond milk or other alternatives work well for dairy-free versions.
• Fresh Cranberries – Provides tartness and texture; frozen cranberries can be used after rinsing and draining.
• Zest and Juice of One Orange – Infuses essential flavor into the bread; always opt for a fresh orange.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Creates a sweet, delightful glaze; organic powdered sugar offers a cleaner choice.
• Juice from Half an Orange – Enhances the glaze’s flavor; using fresh juice will elevate the taste.

Get ready to bake your way to this Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread that’s bound to dazzle your breakfast table or dessert spread!

How to Make Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, take a moment to grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This creates a foundational mix that will give your bread the perfect structure.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and then whisk in the milk, orange juice, and zest. Mix until everything is well combined and frothy, filling your kitchen with that lovely citrus scent.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together with a spatula until just combined, being careful not to over-mix to keep the bread light and airy.
Fold in Cranberries: Now, add your fresh cranberries. Gently fold them into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking apart the mixture.
Bake: Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top for an even rise. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Glaze: After baking, let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and juice from half an orange until smooth, and drizzle it over the cooled bread.

Optional: Garnish with additional orange zest or cranberries for an elegant finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to extend its freshness, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week, but enjoy it at room temperature for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, slice the bread and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread in advance is a wonderful way to save time during busy mornings or special occasions! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare the wet mixture (eggs, milk, orange juice, and zest) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the mixtures, fold in the cranberries, and follow the baking steps. Just remember to allow the bread to cool before glazing, to ensure that it stays as delicious and moist as the day you made it! This way, you’ll enjoy a homemade treat with minimal last-minute effort.

What to Serve with Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread?

There’s nothing quite like creating a delightful meal around this charming bread, perfect for any brunch or dessert spread.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture and richness of mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the tartness of the bread, making for a well-rounded meal.
Simple Garden Salad: A fresh salad dressed with a light vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the bread, adding crunch and vibrant flavors to your plate.
Decadent Cream Cheese Spread: A smear of herbed cream cheese brings a slight tanginess that complements the orange glaze beautifully, making each bite irresistible.
Hot Tea or Coffee: The warmth of a well-brewed cup enhances the aromatic experience, perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon snacks with friends.
Zesty Fruit Salad: A mix of citrus fruits brightens the palate and echoes the orange notes in the glaze, creating a refreshing side.
Coconut Macaroons: The sweetness and chewiness of these treats harmonize wonderfully with the bread’s flavors, providing a satisfying dessert option.
Dark Chocolate Squares: The rich bitterness of dark chocolate plays off the sweetness of the cranberry bread, elevating your dessert experience to a whole new level.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream melting atop a warm slice adds a delightful creaminess, making for a luscious dessert or indulgent breakfast treat.

These pairing options offer an array of flavors and textures, enhancing the experience of enjoying your Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread!

Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this recipe with these delightful options!

Blueberry Swap: Replace cranberries with blueberries for a sweeter, fruitier twist that’s equally delicious.
Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread.
Cinnamon Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, inviting flavor that dances on your palate.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute cow’s milk with almond or oat milk for a simple dairy-free option without sacrificing taste.
Zesty Boost: Incorporate additional orange zest into the dough or glaze to amplify the fresh citrus flavor.
Chocolate Chunks: Fold in dark chocolate chunks for a decadent surprise that pairs wonderfully with the tangy cranberries.
Savory Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or black pepper to the batter for a surprising hint of heat that elevates the flavor profile.
Raspberry Twist: Consider using fresh or frozen raspberries for a delightful berry medley that balances sweetness and tartness beautifully.

Embrace these variations, and make this bread your own! Each adaptation invites a new flavor experience that will surely please your taste buds.

Expert Tips for Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread

Mix Gently: Avoid over-mixing the batter to maintain a fluffy texture; just fold until ingredients are combined.
Check Freshness: Ensure your baking powder is fresh to help the bread rise perfectly; old baking powder can lead to dense bread.
Temperature Matters: Always use fresh orange juice and zest for vibrant flavor; bottled juice won’t provide the same zestiness.
Cooling Time: Let the bread cool in the pan briefly to set before transferring to a wire rack, preventing it from breaking apart.
Creative Variations: Experiment by adding nuts or different berries for your own twist on this classic bread recipe.

Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cranberries?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries should be firm and plump, with a bright, glossy appearance. Avoid any that have dark spots or are soft; these can indicate overripeness. If using frozen cranberries, be sure to rinse and drain them before adding to your batter to remove any excess ice.

What’s the best way to store leftover bread?
Very! Store your Irresistible Classic Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 1 week, though I recommend enjoying it at room temperature for the best flavor.

Can I freeze this bread?
Certainly! To freeze, slice the bread into individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. The bread will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw the slices overnight in the refrigerator and warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes.

What if my bread turns out too dense?
If your bread turns out dense, it may be due to over-mixing the batter or using old baking powder. Ensure you mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined, and check that your baking powder is fresh. A good test for baking powder is to add a teaspoon to warm water; it should bubble immediately if it’s still good!

Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can make it vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water = 1 egg) and using almond milk or another plant-based milk. For gluten-free options, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’re all set!

How can I enhance the flavor of the glaze?
Very! To add an extra pop of flavor to your glaze, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract to the powdered sugar and orange juice mixture. This will enhance the overall taste and make your glaze even more irresistible!