Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf

Name: Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup fresh orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy Plates

Start your day with a burst of citrus and tart cranberries in this delightful Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf. Perfectly moist and flavorful, it's an ideal companion to your morning coffee.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2025-12-29T18:14:27.586Z

This Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf is a delightful way to start your day. The tangy cranberries and zesty orange create a perfect balance of flavors, making each slice a refreshing treat.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright citrus flavor that awakens your senses
Moist and tender texture with a delightful crunch
Perfectly balances sweet and tart for a delicious breakfast

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

There's something special about starting your day with a homemade breakfast loaf. This Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf not only provides a delightful burst of flavor, but it’s also packed with nutrients. The combination of fresh orange juice and cranberries creates a refreshing balance that will awaken your taste buds and energize your morning routine.

Enjoying a slice of this loaf with your favorite morning beverage is an experience like no other. Whether you're sipping on coffee, tea, or a smoothie, the bright citrus notes and tart cranberries complement a variety of drinks. It’s an excellent choice for both busy mornings and leisurely weekends.

Tips for Perfecting Your Loaf

To achieve the most moist and flavorful loaf, be sure to measure your flour accurately. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it down. This small step will make a big difference in the texture of your bread.

Another key to perfection is not overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Gently fold the mixture until just combined to keep your loaf light and fluffy. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Serving Suggestions

This Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf can be enjoyed on its own, but there are plenty of ways to enhance your breakfast experience. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for added richness. You can also pair it with yogurt and fresh fruit for a wholesome breakfast bowl.

For a festive touch, consider sprinkling a light glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the cooled loaf. This simple addition not only elevates the presentation but also adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the tart cranberries beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Loaf

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

Mix all ingredients carefully to ensure a smooth batter.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, orange juice, and orange zest, mixing until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

Add Cranberries

Fold in the cranberries gently into the batter.

Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and enjoy your delicious Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf!

Storing Your Loaf

To keep your Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last for 2-3 days, maintaining its delicious texture and flavor. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it; it can last up to a week when stored properly.

For longer storage, this loaf freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your palate! Adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can introduce a delightful crunch to your loaf. You might also consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting aroma that’s perfect for the cold months.

If cranberries aren’t your favorite, you can easily substitute them with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. Each variation brings its unique flavor profile, making this recipe versatile and adaptable for any season or occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries without thawing them first.

→ How should I store the loaf?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this loaf vegan?

Yes, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based butter.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition.