Indulge in Delight: Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze
Savor the delightful fusion of tart cranberries and zesty orange in our Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze. This moist and flavorful bread is the perfect treat for any occasion, from cozy breakfasts to festive gatherings. Bursting with citrusy goodness and adorned with a luscious glaze, each bite is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the recipe for this irresistible bread and unlock its secrets to perfection.
Ingredients:
Gather these essential ingredients to embark on your culinary adventure with Cranberry Orange Bread:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup oil (vegetable or canola oil)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- For Coconut and Pecan Frosting:
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 3 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- For Chocolate Frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create a decadent Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Incorporate Boiling Water:
- Gradually add the boiling water to the batter, mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s normal.
- Fold in Cranberries and Orange Zest:
- Gently fold in the fresh cranberries and orange zest until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Glaze:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, drizzle the simple glaze over the top of the bread.
- Slice and Serve:
- Slice the Cranberry Orange Bread into thick slices and serve. Enjoy the burst of citrusy flavor and moist texture with each delightful bite.
Cook Notes and Variations:
Enhance your Cranberry Orange Bread with these helpful tips and creative variations:
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as lemon or lime, for a unique variation of the bread.
- Glaze Options: Swap the simple glaze for a cream cheese glaze or a lemon glaze to add another layer of flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Indulge in a keto-friendly or low-carb version of Cranberry Orange Bread with these simple adaptations:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Substitute almond flour and coconut flour for the all-purpose flour, and use a sugar-free sweetener instead of granulated sugar. Opt for almond milk or coconut milk instead of buttermilk.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or use a sugar substitute. Incorporate almond flour or flaxseed meal for a lower-carb flour option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are not available. Simply thaw them before adding them to the batter.
Q: How should I store leftover Cranberry Orange Bread? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Q: Can I make this bread ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the Cranberry Orange Bread in advance and store it until ready to serve. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze as needed.
Q: Can I omit the glaze if I prefer? A: Absolutely! The glaze is optional and can be omitted if desired. The bread is delicious on its own or served with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
In conclusion, our Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze is a delightful treat that brings together the vibrant flavors of tart cranberries and zesty orange in every bite. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast indulgence or a sweet afternoon snack, this moist and flavorful bread is sure to please your palate and brighten your day. With its simple preparation and versatile nature, it’s the perfect recipe to add to your baking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure filled with citrusy goodness and irresistible charm. Bon appétit!
