There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange—a pairing that feels like the bright, refreshing contrast we all need, especially in the cooler months.
This Cranberry Orange Loaf with Sweet Glaze is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and buttery, with juicy cranberries bursting in every bite and a luscious orange glaze that adds just the right touch of indulgence.
Whether you’re baking this for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a festive holiday dessert, this recipe delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. Plus, cranberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, making this loaf a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy seasonal flavors.
This moist, tender loaf is a wonderful companion to hearty dishes like Hearty Chicken Vegetable Stew for a balanced meal, or serve it with French Buttercream for a more decadent twist.
Tossing the cranberries in a little flour before folding them into the batter prevents them from sinking to the bottom—ensuring even distribution and a perfect texture in every slice. Baking this loaf fills the kitchen with an irresistible warm citrus aroma, and the first bite? Pure bliss.
The Secret to Loving Every Bite!
- The Perfect Sweet-Tart Balance – The bright citrus zest pairs beautifully with the burst of fresh cranberries, making every bite refreshing and flavorful.
- Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a cozy snack, or a homemade gift, this loaf fits the bill.
- Easy to Make, Big on Flavor – No complicated steps, just simple ingredients coming together for an incredible result.
- That Irresistible Glaze – The fresh orange glaze takes it over the top, adding a glossy finish and an extra citrusy punch.
- A Little Health Boost – Thanks to the cranberries, this loaf comes with a dose of antioxidants and immune-supporting vitamin C.
Cranberry Orange Loaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Zester & juicer
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup milk room temperature
- Zest of 1 large orange divided
- 1/4 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries rinsed and patted dry
- 1/2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
Orange Glaze Ingredients:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice or to reach desired consistency
- 1 tsp orange zest reserved from the orange above
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy. Add eggs, orange zest, milk, and orange juice; mix well.
- Gradually fold in dry ingredients, then coat cranberries with flour and gently fold them into the batter.
- Pour batter into the loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
- Whisk powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest for the glaze; drizzle over the cooled loaf.
- Slice and enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 224kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sugar | 19g |
| Sodium | 261mg |
Baking Secrets for the Best Cranberry Orange Loaf!
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir just until combined; overmixing leads to a dense, tough loaf instead of a light, tender one.
- Use Fresh Orange Juice & Zest – Bottled juice won’t give you the same bright, citrusy flavor. The zest holds essential oils that add incredible depth.
- Let the Loaf Cool Before Glazing – If the loaf is even slightly warm, the glaze will melt right off instead of creating that gorgeous, slightly crisp layer on top.
- Chop Larger Cranberries – If your cranberries are extra large, cut them in half so they distribute more evenly and don’t create soggy pockets.
- Add a Streusel Topping for Texture – If you want a little crunch, mix butter, flour, sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon for a crumbly streusel topping before baking.
- Store for Maximum Freshness – Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze slices for a quick, homemade treat anytime!
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
