Festive Cranberry Orange Bread

Festive Cranberry Orange Bread

As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to the delightful flavors and aromas that come with festive baking. Cranberry Orange Bread is a seasonal favorite that combines the tartness of cranberries with the refreshing zest of oranges. This moist and flavorful loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat during afternoon tea.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons orange zest
• ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well)

Cooking Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the orange zest, orange juice, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.

4. 

   Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Add Cranberries and Nuts: Fold in the cranberries and nuts, if using. The batter will be thick.

6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutritional Value and Pairing Suggestions

Cranberry Orange Bread offers a delightful balance of carbohydrates and natural sugars, making it an energizing snack or breakfast option. The inclusion of fresh cranberries provides antioxidants and vitamin C, while the orange juice contributes additional vitamins and a refreshing citrusy aroma.

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving slices of this bread with a dollop of Greek yogurt sprinkled with honey, or a side of scrambled eggs to add protein. A warm cup of spiced chai tea or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice pairs beautifully with the bread, enhancing the citrus notes and creating a comforting and festive experience.

For a savory twist, serve the bread with a fresh green salad featuring mixed greens, goat cheese, and a light vinaigrette. This juxtaposition of sweet and savory will surely delight your taste buds and impress your guests.