Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread – A Bright and Buttery Holiday Favorite

There’s something magical about the combination of tart cranberries and sweet citrus. This Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread is a celebration of that perfect pairing—moist, buttery crumb infused with orange zest and juice, studded with juicy cranberries, and finished with a glossy orange glaze that takes it over the top. Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch, gifting to friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy slice with tea, this loaf is a seasonal staple you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Bread

• Moist and tender – Thanks to butter, eggs, and orange juice.
• Tart and sweet – Fresh cranberries balance the citrusy sweetness.
• Easy to make – No mixer required, just a few bowls and a loaf pan.
• Perfect for gifting – Wrap in parchment and ribbon for a homemade holiday treat.
• Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and enjoy later.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1–2 oranges)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (halved if large)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons orange juice
• ½ teaspoon orange zest (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

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

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Orange zest

Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two additions, alternating with the orange juice.
Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Fold in the cranberries and walnuts (if using).

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Powdered sugar
• Orange juice
• Orange zest (if using)

Drizzle over the cooled bread.
Let the glaze set for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
• Cool Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: ~2 hours
• Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
• Calories: ~280 kcal per slice (approximate)

Tips for Success

• Use fresh orange juice for the brightest flavor.
• Toss cranberries in a bit of flour before folding in to prevent sinking.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
• Cool completely before glazing to avoid melting.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerate for up to 5.

Variations to Try

• Cranberry Orange Muffins: Divide batter into muffin tins and bake for 18–22 minutes.
• Add a streusel topping for extra texture and sweetness.
• Swap walnuts for pecans or leave them out for a nut-free version.
• Add a splash of almond extract for a subtle twist.
• Use dried cranberries if fresh aren’t available—just soak them in warm water first

Perfect For…

• Holiday brunches
• Gifting to neighbors or coworkers
• Afternoon tea
• Freezer-friendly meal prep
• A cozy weekend bake

Final Thoughts

This Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread is a delightful blend of tart, sweet, and citrusy flavors with a tender crumb and a glossy glaze. It’s festive enough for special occasions yet simple enough for everyday enjoyment. Whether you’re baking it for yourself or to share, it’s sure to bring a burst of brightness to your table.