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Cranberry Orange Bread

A delightful blend of sweet and tart, this moist and flavorful loaf combining fresh cranberries and zesty orange is perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Batter Ingredients
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter Adds richness and moisture
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar Sweetens the batter
  • 1 tablespoon Orange zest Infuses flavor
  • 2 Eggs Provides structure and moisture
  • 1/2 cup Half and half Contributes creaminess
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Enhances flavor
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour Base for the bread
  • 1 tablespoon Baking powder Leavening agent
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness
  • 2 cups Cranberries Adds tartness
Glaze Ingredients
  • 1 cup Powdered sugar For sweetness in glaze
  • 2 tablespoons Whole milk Adds moisture to glaze
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh orange juice Enhances glaze flavor

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9x5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a handheld electric mixer.
  3. Add the orange zest, eggs, half and half, and vanilla; beat until smooth.
  4. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
Layering
  1. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Scatter half of the cranberries on top.
  2. Pour the remaining batter over the cranberries and top with the remaining cranberries.
Baking
  1. Bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow to cool in the pan for at least one hour, then remove from pan and cool completely on a wire rack.
  3. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and orange juice until combined.
  4. Pour the glaze over the cooled loaf when set.
  5. Slice and serve, or dust with powdered sugar for a simpler presentation.

Notes

Use fresh cranberries for best flavor. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.