Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf

Name: Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped; 1 tbsp orange zest; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; ½ cup orange juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Healthy Meals Quick

A delightful breakfast loaf bursting with the zesty flavor of orange and the tartness of cranberries.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-29T19:22:27.965Z

This Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf is the perfect start to your day. The combination of fresh orange zest and tart cranberries creates a deliciously vibrant flavor.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with citrusy flavors that brighten your morning
Moist texture complemented by tart cranberries
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with family or friends

      

The Perfect Morning Treat

Start your day on a bright note with this Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf. The combination of fresh orange juice and zesty orange zest infuses every bite with a refreshing citrus flavor. This loaf not only satisfies your morning cravings but also delivers a burst of vitamins, making it a wholesome choice for breakfast or brunch.

Pair it with your favorite morning beverage, whether it’s a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of cold brew. The tartness of the cranberries offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the loaf, ensuring that each slice is a harmonious blend of flavors. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you feel good and energized for the day ahead.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a holiday, or simply enjoying a relaxed weekend morning, this Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf fits the bill. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more moments with loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

This loaf also makes a great gift! Wrap it in decorative paper or place it in a beautiful box, and you have a thoughtful present for friends, family, or neighbors. It’s a delicious way to show you care, especially during the festive season when everyone appreciates a homemade treat.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your loaf is baked and cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the loaf and freeze it in individual portions. Simply thaw a slice whenever you crave a quick breakfast or snack, and enjoy it toasted or fresh.

You can also enhance your serving experience by adding a light glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice drizzled on top. For an extra touch, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese for a delightful morning indulgence.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf:

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
1 tbsp orange zest
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup orange juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Prepare Cranberries

Fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest into the dry mixture.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, cream the butter and then add the eggs, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Once your loaf is cooled, slice it up and enjoy!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Orange Cranberry Breakfast Loaf turns out perfectly, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve precise measurements, especially for flour, which can be packed differently depending on how it’s scooped.

Be careful not to overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than a light and fluffy texture. A few lumps are perfectly fine, so stir just until everything is incorporated.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans for additional crunch. If you're a chocolate lover, consider folding in some dark chocolate chips for a delightful twist that pairs beautifully with the orange and cranberry flavors.

For a healthier alternative, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use a sugar substitute to lower the calorie count. These adjustments can make the loaf even more nutritious while still delivering on taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before use.

→ How should I store the loaf?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, you can substitute melted butter with an equal amount of vegetable or coconut oil.

→ Is it possible to make this loaf gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.