Orange Cranberry Bread is one of those cozy bakes that fills your kitchen with the bright scent of citrus and the warm comfort of something homemade. The combination of sweet orange zest and tart cranberries creates a loaf that feels both refreshing and indulgent at the same time. It is the kind of bake that works just as beautifully for a holiday brunch as it does for a quiet weekend morning with coffee.

Each slice is soft and tender with juicy bursts of cranberry in every bite. A light orange glaze on top adds just the right touch of sweetness and brings out the natural citrus flavor. Whether you are baking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this loaf never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Cranberry Bread

This Orange Cranberry Bread strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. The fresh orange juice and zest give it a vibrant flavor that feels light, while the cranberries add little pops of brightness throughout the loaf. It is simple to prepare, uses pantry staples, and looks impressive once sliced.

It is also incredibly versatile. Serve it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or dress it up with glaze for dessert. The texture stays moist for days, making it a great make ahead option when you are planning for guests or busy mornings.

Can I Use Fresh or Dried Cranberries in Orange Cranberry Bread?

Both fresh and dried cranberries work well in Orange Cranberry Bread, but they give slightly different results. Fresh cranberries provide a bold, tart burst and a softer texture once baked. Dried cranberries are sweeter and a bit chewier, which creates a more dessert like loaf.

If you are using frozen cranberries, there is no need to thaw them. Simply fold them into the batter straight from the freezer to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture.

Ingredients for the Orange Cranberry Bread

The beauty of Orange Cranberry Bread is how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. Each ingredient plays an important role in building flavor, structure, and moisture for a perfectly balanced loaf.

All purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Fresh orange juice
Orange zest
Milk
Fresh or dried cranberries
Powdered sugar

How To Make the Orange Cranberry Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a standard loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening so the loaf rises properly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step adds air to the batter and creates a tender texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Citrus

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the fresh orange juice and orange zest. The zest is especially important because it carries most of the bright citrus flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 6: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in the cranberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Add the Orange Glaze

Allow the bread to cool completely. Mix powdered sugar with a little fresh orange juice to create a smooth glaze, then drizzle it over the top before slicing.

Serving and Storing Orange Cranberry Bread

This Orange Cranberry Bread serves about 8 to 10 slices, depending on how thick you cut it. It is delicious slightly warm, at room temperature, or even chilled.

Store the loaf tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze individual slices for up to three months. If freezing, wrap each slice well and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

What to Serve With Orange Cranberry Bread?

Fresh Fruit Salad

A bowl of mixed berries or seasonal fruit pairs beautifully with the citrus notes in the bread.

Greek Yogurt with Honey

The creamy texture of yogurt balances the tart cranberries and adds a little protein to your breakfast.

Scrambled Eggs

If serving for brunch, soft scrambled eggs make this loaf part of a complete meal.

Hot Coffee or Tea

A warm cup of coffee or black tea enhances the orange flavor and makes each bite even more comforting.

Vanilla Ice Cream

For dessert, serve a slice slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Whipped Cream

Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy finish that complements the glaze.

Want More Sweet Bread Ideas?

If you enjoy baking homemade loaves like this Orange Cranberry Bread, you might also love these reader favorites:

Try the bright and tangy Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze for another citrus inspired treat: https://miaplates.com/lemon-rhubarb-loaf-with-glaze/

If you prefer something nutty and rich, Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is always a hit: https://miaplates.com/sweet-alabama-pecan-bread/

For a savory option that works beautifully with soups and salads, Herb Cheese Quick Bread is a wonderful choice: https://miaplates.com/herb-cheese-quick-bread-recipe/

If you are in the mood for something cozy and classic, Butter Pecan Pound Cake delivers deep flavor and a tender crumb: https://miaplates.com/butter-pecan-pound-cake/

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 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 your Orange Cranberry Bread turned out. Did you use fresh cranberries or dried? Did you add extra zest for a stronger citrus flavor?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too let’s help each other bake smarter.

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