Introduction
Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is one of those classic holiday recipes that immediately feels festive. The tartness of fresh cranberries bursts with every bite, while the sweet citrus of orange zest and juice brightens the loaf and balances the flavors perfectly. Drizzling a shiny orange glaze over the top transforms it from a simple quick bread into a bakery-style treat that looks as good as it tastes.
What makes cranberry orange bread with glaze so popular during the holiday season is its versatility. You can serve it as a holiday breakfast, a sweet afternoon snack, or even as a dessert after a cozy family dinner. The loaf also makes a thoughtful homemade gift when wrapped in parchment and tied with ribbon — perfect for neighbors, teachers, or holiday potlucks.
Unlike yeast breads, this is a quick bread, which means there’s no rising or complicated kneading. It’s as simple as combining the wet and dry ingredients, folding in tart cranberries, baking, and finishing with a glaze. The result is a moist, flavorful loaf that tastes like Christmas morning.
If you’ve already tried recipes like Cranberry Apple Crisp with Oat Topping, you know how beautifully cranberries shine in baked goods. This glazed loaf takes the flavor even further, highlighting cranberries with citrus brightness and a glossy finish that makes it Pinterest-perfect.
Table of Contents
Why Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze Is a Holiday Classic
Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze has become a holiday staple because it combines two flavors that symbolize the season — cranberries and oranges. The sharp tang of cranberries pairs beautifully with the sweetness of orange zest and juice, creating a loaf that feels refreshing yet indulgent. Add the glaze, and you’ve got a sparkling finish that makes this bread irresistible at any holiday gathering.
This festive loaf has a nostalgic quality, too. Many families bake cranberry orange bread with glaze every December, slicing it warm from the oven and serving it with mugs of hot coffee or tea. The glaze adds a touch of elegance, turning a humble quick bread into something worthy of the holiday dessert table.
Cranberries themselves are deeply tied to fall and winter traditions. They appear in everything from sauces to cocktails, and when baked into breads, their jewel-like color makes every slice look celebratory. Oranges add their own seasonal charm, since citrus fruits are often at their peak in the winter months. Together, they deliver flavor, color, and aroma that define cozy gatherings.
For those who enjoy experimenting with seasonal recipes, this loaf offers plenty of flexibility. You can serve it plain for breakfast, add nuts for crunch, or even use it as part of a holiday brunch spread with savory sides. If you’ve already explored savory comfort food recipes like Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles, baking a sweet loaf like cranberry orange bread with glaze gives balance to your menu and highlights the sweeter side of seasonal cooking.
Ultimately, cranberry orange bread with glaze is more than a recipe. It’s a tradition, a gift, and a memory all wrapped into one loaf. Every bite feels like a celebration of the season.
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Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This cranberry orange bread with glaze is a festive holiday loaf packed with tart cranberries and bright citrus flavor, topped with a sweet orange glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert during cozy fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, halved
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice
- ½ tsp orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Stir in orange juice.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients. Fold in cranberries and nuts.
- Pour batter into loaf pan and bake 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool loaf completely before glazing. Whisk powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest into a smooth glaze. Drizzle over cooled bread.
Notes
- Fresh vs Frozen Cranberries: Frozen cranberries can be used, but don’t thaw before folding into the batter to avoid bleeding.
- Glaze Variations: Add a splash of vanilla extract or swap orange juice with lemon juice for a tangier glaze.
- Storage: Store at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate up to 5 days. Freezes well (without glaze) for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Bread, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: per slice
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze
Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is proof that simple, everyday ingredients can create something festive and extraordinary. Each item in this recipe plays an important role in building the loaf’s tender crumb, bright citrus notes, and glossy glaze that makes it holiday-worthy.
For the bread batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of this quick bread, giving it structure and a soft texture.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Provides lift so the loaf rises beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the acidity from the orange juice for even rising.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- 2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- ¾ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor) – Brightens the loaf with a fresh citrus burst.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest – Boosts aroma and infuses concentrated flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Keeps the bread moist and indulgent.
- 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries – The tart flavor balances the sweetness and adds beautiful pops of red.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – Add crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Creates the glossy drizzle on top.
- 2–3 tablespoons orange juice – Adds citrus brightness while thinning the glaze to the right consistency.
- ½ teaspoon orange zest – Gives a final aromatic kick.
The combination of tart cranberries, sweet citrus, and buttery richness makes cranberry orange bread with glaze unforgettable. Adding nuts gives it extra crunch, while the glaze transforms the loaf into a festive centerpiece.
If you love baked goods with a nutty element, you’ll also enjoy trying Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies, another treat that’s perfect for holiday gifting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Baking Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze at home is easier than you might think. This festive quick bread comes together with just a few bowls and basic kitchen tools. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time.
1. Prepare your oven and pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. A properly prepared pan ensures your cranberry orange bread with glaze doesn’t stick and keeps its shape beautifully.
2. Combine the dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This prevents clumping and evenly distributes the leavening agents. Sifting also helps create a lighter, fluffier bread texture.
3. Mix the wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and melted butter until smooth and well combined. This mixture infuses the loaf with citrusy sweetness and ensures a moist crumb once baked.
4. Bring it all together
Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing — it can make the bread dense instead of soft and tender.
5. Fold in cranberries and optional nuts
Add the fresh cranberries and, if using, walnuts or pecans. The tart cranberries burst during baking, while nuts add satisfying crunch and depth of flavor.
6. Bake to perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
7. Make the orange glaze
While the bread cools, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until you have a smooth, pourable glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar for thickness or more juice for a thinner drizzle.
8. Finish with a festive touch
Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Let it set for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Your cranberry orange bread with glaze is now ready to serve, slice, or wrap as a holiday gift.
For another easy holiday baking idea that comes together quickly without yeast, try Smores Cookie Cups. Like cranberry orange bread with glaze, they’re simple yet impressive.
Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze
Even though cranberry orange bread with glaze is a simple quick bread, there are a few tricks that can help you achieve bakery-style results every time. Whether you’re new to holiday baking or a seasoned home cook, these tips ensure your loaf is tender, moist, and topped with a beautiful citrus glaze.
Measure flour the right way
Too much flour can make your bread dense. Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag. This small detail makes a big difference in creating a light and moist cranberry orange quick bread with glaze.
Use room temperature ingredients
Eggs, butter, and orange juice should be at room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter come together smoothly and bake evenly, giving you a perfectly risen festive cranberry loaf with orange zest.
Don’t overmix the batter
Overmixing activates the gluten in flour, which leads to a tough texture. Stir gently until the dry and wet ingredients are just combined. A few lumps are fine — they’ll disappear during baking.
Balance tartness and sweetness
Fresh cranberries can be very tart. If you prefer a sweeter loaf, fold in a handful of white chocolate chips or swap in part of the cranberries for dried sweetened ones. This creates a bakery-style cranberry orange bread with glaze that appeals to every palate.
Cool completely before glazing
It’s tempting to glaze the bread while warm, but the heat will melt the glaze and cause it to run off. Allow the loaf to cool fully on a wire rack before drizzling for a polished look.
Storage and freezing tips
Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended storage, freeze slices separately and defrost as needed. The glaze holds up surprisingly well after freezing, making this a great make-ahead holiday baking recipe with citrus glaze.
If you love holiday baking that’s simple yet impressive, you might also enjoy trying Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. While savory instead of sweet, it’s another crowd-pleasing holiday side that delivers comfort and flavor.
Presentation and Serving Ideas
Cranberry orange bread with glaze isn’t just delicious — it’s also one of the most visually appealing holiday bakes. The contrast of ruby-red cranberries against a golden loaf topped with shimmering citrus glaze makes it perfect for sharing at seasonal gatherings. With the right presentation, your cranberry orange quick bread can go from a simple treat to a showstopping centerpiece.
Slice and serve with style
Cut the loaf into thick slices and arrange them slightly overlapping on a wooden serving board. This rustic presentation highlights the vibrant cranberries and makes the glazed top sparkle. Guests love seeing the cross-section of the bread, where cranberries burst like little jewels in each slice.
Turn it into edible holiday gifts
Wrap cooled slices individually in parchment paper, tie with twine, and tuck them into a holiday tin. Adding a sprig of rosemary or a slice of dried orange makes each gift festive and elegant. This idea is especially popular on Pinterest searches for “holiday giftable baked goods.”
Pair with seasonal drinks
Serve cranberry orange bread with glaze alongside mugs of mulled cider, spiced hot chocolate, or a refreshing festive punch. The balance of tart cranberries and sweet glaze complements warm, cozy drinks beautifully. For a creative pairing idea, check out this Cranberry Lime Mocktails — It’s a very refreshing and sophisticated pairing.
Elevate with toppings
For special occasions, add a handful of sugared cranberries or orange zest curls over the glaze just before serving. These garnishes make the bread sparkle in photos and add extra texture.
Serve as part of a holiday spread
Cranberry orange quick bread with glaze works beautifully as part of a larger holiday brunch or dessert table. Pair it with savory casseroles, cheesy potatoes, or spiced muffins for a well-rounded, crowd-pleasing spread.
FAQs About Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze
What is the best flour for cranberry bread?
The best flour for cranberry orange bread with glaze is all-purpose flour. It creates the right balance of structure and tenderness, allowing the bread to hold its shape while still staying soft and moist. For a slightly denser, heartier loaf, you can use a mix of all-purpose flour and whole wheat pastry flour. If you want a gluten-free option, choose a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, which works well with the glaze and cranberries without compromising flavor.
Can I use dried cranberries in cranberry bread?
Yes, dried cranberries are an excellent substitute if fresh ones aren’t available. However, because dried cranberries are sweeter and less tart, soak them in warm orange juice or water for 10–15 minutes before baking. This step rehydrates them, adds moisture, and prevents the bread from becoming too dry. The glaze will still shine beautifully on top whether you use dried or fresh cranberries.
Do you cook cranberries before baking?
No, you don’t need to cook cranberries before baking cranberry orange bread with glaze. Fresh cranberries soften perfectly while baking and release their tart juices into the bread, balancing the sweetness of the orange glaze. If you’re using frozen cranberries, toss them in flour straight from the freezer to prevent excess moisture from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.
Is cranberry walnut bread healthy?
Cranberry walnut bread can be a healthier variation of cranberry orange quick bread with glaze, especially if you swap refined sugar for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Walnuts add heart-healthy omega-3 fats and a satisfying crunch, while cranberries provide antioxidants and vitamin C. To keep it lighter, you can make a thinner glaze drizzle instead of a thick icing layer.
Why didn’t my cranberry bread rise?
If your cranberry orange bread with glaze didn’t rise, there are a few likely reasons:
Expired baking powder or soda – Always check freshness before baking.
Overmixing the batter – This can develop too much gluten, leading to a dense loaf.
Incorrect oven temperature – Baking at too low of a temperature can prevent proper rise.
Too much moisture from cranberries – If the cranberries were not tossed in flour before adding, their juices can weigh the batter down.
What is the secret to good bread?
The secret to a perfect cranberry orange bread with glaze is balance:
Properly measured flour – Spoon and level instead of scooping.
Room temperature ingredients – Butter, eggs, and milk should not be cold for even mixing.
Fold gently – Incorporate the cranberries without overmixing.
Don’t skip the glaze – A citrus glaze locks in moisture and enhances the tart cranberry flavor.
These small baking details ensure your bread is light, flavorful, and bakery-quality every single time.
Conclusion: A Bakery-Style Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze to Impress
Cranberry orange bread with glaze is more than just a seasonal quick bread—it’s a festive centerpiece that combines tart, juicy cranberries with the sweetness of citrus and the irresistible shine of a fresh glaze. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy breakfast, a Thanksgiving side, or a thoughtful holiday gift, this bread captures the very essence of fall baking.
One of the greatest things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can prepare it with fresh or dried cranberries, switch to a gluten-free flour blend if needed, or even add walnuts or pecans for a nuttier crunch. The orange glaze not only enhances the presentation but also adds a layer of moisture and sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberries. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you can easily make this bread ahead of time and store it for gatherings, potlucks, or quiet family mornings.
Cranberry orange bread also pairs beautifully with seasonal beverages. Imagine serving it alongside a warm mug of spiced tea, a frothy latte, or even a festive fall punch. For a refreshing drink idea that complements this bread, try the Creamy Strawberry Apple Punch Recipe. Its fruity sweetness balances the tang of the cranberries, making it a delightful duo for brunches or cozy evenings.
At the end of the day, the secret to cranberry orange bread with glaze lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t demand advanced baking skills—just quality ingredients, a little care, and the patience to let the glaze set perfectly on top. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, it’s bound to become a tradition in your kitchen, bringing color, flavor, and joy to your table every time you bake it.