There's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Orange Cranberry Bread filling your kitchen. The sweet, tangy citrus paired with tart cranberries creates the perfect flavor combination, making this bread a treat for breakfast, dessert, or even a midday snack.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy mornings with a warm slice of bread and a steaming cup of tea. It's quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into why this Orange Cranberry Bread will become your new favorite.

Why You'll Love This Orange Cranberry Bread

Get ready to meet your new go-to quick bread recipe. This Orange Cranberry Bread combines bold flavors and effortless preparation in a way that’s hard to resist.

First, it’s incredibly simple to make. No need for fancy equipment or advanced baking skills—just a bowl, a whisk, and an hour of your time.

The balance of flavors is divine. The zesty orange brightens the bread, while the tart cranberries add a burst of fruity goodness in every bite. A hint of sweetness ties everything together for a perfectly balanced treat.

It’s versatile and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it plain with a cup of coffee, drizzle it with a simple glaze for added sweetness, or serve it as part of a holiday brunch spread.

Finally, this bread stores wonderfully. Bake a loaf ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week, or freeze it for future cravings. You’ll love the convenience and taste every single time.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Orange Cranberry Bread lies in its thoughtful combination of fresh and simple ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table.

Fresh Cranberries are the stars of the show. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the bread beautifully. You can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available—just toss them in a little flour to prevent sinking.

Orange Zest and Juice give the bread its signature citrusy flavor. Be sure to zest the orange before juicing it for the freshest, most vibrant taste.

All-Purpose Flour provides the perfect structure for this quick bread. If you want to experiment with whole wheat flour, consider using a 50/50 blend for a slightly nuttier flavor.

Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream ensures the bread stays moist and tender. It also adds a subtle tang that complements the cranberries perfectly.

Unsalted Butter gives the bread richness. If you prefer, you can substitute with a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil for a slightly different texture.

No special equipment is required for this recipe—just a loaf pan, a mixing bowl, and a whisk. Easy peasy!

How To Make This Orange Cranberry Bread

Making Orange Cranberry Bread is as simple as mixing, folding, and baking. Here’s how to bring it all together.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a standard loaf pan. This ensures the bread will bake evenly and release easily when it’s done.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and orange zest. This step releases the oils in the zest, infusing the sugar with citrus flavor. Add the melted butter, eggs, Greek yogurt, and orange juice, whisking until smooth and well combined.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

Gently fold in the cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

The result? A golden, aromatic loaf that’s packed with flavor and perfect for slicing.

Storage Options

Orange Cranberry Bread is as easy to store as it is to make, ensuring you can enjoy it for days to come.

At room temperature, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it ideal for busy mornings or afternoon snacks.

For longer storage, refrigerate the bread. Place it in an airtight container, and it will last up to a week. Just allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

If you want to freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a few hours.

To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds or toast them lightly for a crisp edge.

Variations and Substitutions

This Orange Cranberry Bread is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own.

Add nuts for extra crunch. Chopped walnuts or pecans pair wonderfully with the tart cranberries and citrusy orange.

Drizzle a simple orange glaze over the cooled loaf for added sweetness. Combine powdered sugar with a few tablespoons of orange juice for a quick and delicious topping.

Swap out the cranberries for blueberries or a mix of dried and fresh fruits for a different flavor profile.

Make it dairy-free by using a plant-based yogurt and replacing the butter with coconut oil or a neutral vegetable oil.

For a spiced twist, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients. It adds warmth and depth to the bread, perfect for cooler months.

Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or shredded coconut for a fun and unexpected twist.

No matter how you make it, this Orange Cranberry Bread will bring joy to your kitchen. Try it today and discover your new favorite bake!