Cranberry Orange Loaf with Glaze: A Festive Treat

Celebrate the holidays or any special occasion with this delicious Cranberry Orange Loaf. Packed with fresh cranberries, a hint of citrus, and drizzled with an irresistible orange glaze, this moist and flavorful loaf is perfect as a dessert or a morning treat with coffee. Follow the recipe below to recreate this masterpiece in your kitchen!

Ingredients

For the Loaf:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120ml) fresh orange juice
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
• 1 ½ cups (150g) fresh or frozen cranberries

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp orange zest

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Loaf Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream. Fold in the cranberries gently.

Step 2: Bake the Loaf

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Orange Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth and drizzle-able.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

1. Once the loaf has cooled, drizzle the orange glaze evenly over the top. Let the glaze set for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Toss the cranberries in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter to prevent them from sinking.
• Use fresh-squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
• For a more festive touch, garnish the loaf with sugared cranberries or orange slices.

This Cranberry Orange Loaf is bursting with flavor and makes a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table. Whether you’re enjoying it yourself or gifting it to loved ones, this loaf is sure to bring joy to anyone who tastes it. Try this recipe today and savor the perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors!