Zesty Orange Cranberry Loaf with Sweet Citrus Glaze

A lovely combination of tart, fresh cranberries and spicy orange aromas, this Orange Cranberry Loaf is ideal for any occasion. An enticing delicacy that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack is produced by the harmony of sweet and acidic flavors. Each slice of this bread, which has a light citrus glaze on top, is refreshing and filling. A family favorite, this dish is simple to make with a few basic ingredients and blends the wonderful explosion of cranberries with the crisp zing of oranges!

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

• • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¾ cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries, roughly chopped
• For the Orange Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 ½ tablespoons orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest

Directions:

1. Set the oven’s temperature to 175°C (350°F). To make sure the loaf can be removed easily, grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper before baking.
2. Combine the dry ingredients: Mix the flour and baking powder together in a big bowl. Put aside.
3. Get the wet components ready by combining the sugar and orange zest in a separate basin. Use your fingers to massage the sugar and zest together, releasing the oils for a more intense taste. Pour in the eggs, buttermilk, orange juice, vanilla essence, and melted butter. Mix well with a whisk.
4. Mix the ingredients together: Stir just until combined as you gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. To avoid creating a thick loaf, take care not to overmix.
5. Add the cranberries: Make sure the chopped cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the batter by gently folding them in.
6. Bake: Evenly distribute the batter in the loaf pan that has been lined or oiled. Bake it for 55 to 60 minutes in a preheated oven. A toothpick inserted into the middle of the loaf should come out clean when it is done.During the last 15 minutes of baking, lightly cover with foil if the top begins to brown too rapidly.
7. Create the glaze: In a separate bowl, mix together the orange juice, orange zest, and powdered sugar until smooth as the bread cools.
8. To glaze the loaf, take it out of the pan and set it on a wire rack after it has cooled for ten or so minutes. Before slicing, drizzle the glaze over the loaf’s top and allow it to set.

In conclusion, the vibrant citrus glaze adds the ideal finishing touch to this Orange Cranberry Loaf, which is the ideal balance of tart and sweet. With its soft texture and fresh aromas, this bread is guaranteed to wow whether it’s served at a brunch or given as a Christmas gift. The best part is that it’s easy to prepare and may be eaten as a dessert or snack on any day.