Okay, here we go! Let’s dive into something truly special – a Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze that’s not only delicious but also a sanity-saver for us busy moms. It’s more than just a treat; it’s a way to bring a little sunshine and wholesome goodness to our families, even when life feels like a whirlwind! I know how hard it is to find recipes that are both nutritious and easy, so I’m excited to share this one with you.
I remember the first time I made this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze. It was during the holiday season, and I was feeling completely overwhelmed. The kids were bouncing off the walls with excitement, there were presents to wrap, and I was determined to bake something…anything! I stumbled upon a cranberry orange loaf recipe and thought, “Why not?”
What really prompted me to try it was the promise of simple ingredients and minimal fuss. Plus, the combination of tart cranberries and bright orange sounded like the perfect antidote to the sugary overload that often comes with the holidays. The kids loved helping me measure and mix, and the aroma that filled the house while it baked was pure magic.
The biggest nutrition win with this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze? It’s packed with whole fruit and uses simple ingredients that I can feel good about. I even sneak in a little whole wheat flour for extra fiber! It became an instant family favorite and a holiday tradition that we all look forward to. I’m so happy this cranberry orange sweet bread is a hit.
This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze has become a staple in our home because it’s a simple way to add some extra nutrients into our day. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert. It’s also a wonderful way to use seasonal ingredients, and it’s a great activity to do with the kids. If they enjoy it, I highly recommend trying these Christmas cookies with orange juice.
This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze journey has taught me that good nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about finding simple, wholesome recipes that your family loves and that fit into your busy lifestyle. It’s about making small changes and celebrating the little victories. I am so happy with the orange glazed cranberry bread recipe.
So, if you’re a busy mom looking for a sanity-saving nutrition win, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s bake some Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze together and bring a little bit of joy and nourishment into our homes. I’m so glad to have you here, fellow nutrition-seekers! Let’s embrace the nourishing chaos and create some dinnertime nutrition wins!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Trust me, this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! We’re talking about real ingredients, easily found in your local grocery store, and a few simple swaps to boost the nutrition factor. This holiday cranberry bread is calling your name!
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups. I sometimes swap in 1 cup of whole wheat flour for extra fiber in my Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze.
- Granulated Sugar: 1 1/2 cups. I like to reduce this to 1 cup and add a tablespoon of honey for a touch of natural sweetness.
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon. This is what gives our bread that beautiful rise!
- Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon.
- Eggs: 2 large. Make sure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.
- Orange Juice: 1 cup. Freshly squeezed is best for the most vibrant flavor in your Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze!
- Vegetable Oil: 1/2 cup. You can also use melted coconut oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Orange Zest: 2 tablespoons. This is where that amazing citrusy aroma comes from!
- Fresh Cranberries: 1 1/2 cups, coarsely chopped. Frozen cranberries work too, just don’t thaw them.
- For the Glaze:
- Powdered Sugar: 1 cup
- Orange Juice: 2-3 tablespoons, or enough to reach desired consistency.

This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive or hard to find. You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store, making it a super accessible recipe for busy families. My family gets extra nutrition when I add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. It adds a nice crunch and some healthy fats!
Here’s a Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze nutrition hack that changed our family’s health: I sometimes add a tablespoon of chia seeds to the batter for an extra boost of omega-3s and fiber. No one even notices, and it adds a little extra goodness to our citrus cranberry bread. For another recipe featuring cranberries and oranges, check out these cranberry orange scones.
Let’s Make it Happen!
Alright, fellow nutrition-seekers, let’s get baking! This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is surprisingly simple, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Just remember, it’s okay if things get a little messy – that’s part of the fun! I know you’re going to love this cranberry orange loaf.
- Preheat and Prep: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This step is crucial to prevent the bread from sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, orange juice, vegetable oil, and orange zest. This is where that amazing citrusy aroma starts to come alive!
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough bread.
- Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in the chopped cranberries. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Your Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze should smell nourishing by now!
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from getting soggy.
While your Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family! I find it’s the perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch! In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze usually takes about an hour from start to finish, including baking time. Here’s a timing tip: I often prep the dry ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
For the Glaze:
- Whisk: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Add more orange juice, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Drizzle: Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Here’s where I used to struggle with my Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze – learn from my experience! Don’t worry if your bread looks a little cracked on top; it’s perfectly normal. It just means it rose beautifully! Also, be sure to let the bread cool completely before glazing, or the glaze will melt right off.
I find this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is very simple to make! This citrus cranberry bread is a nutrition shortcut for busy families. It truly is delicious.
How We Love to Eat This!
This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is so versatile – we love it in so many different ways! It’s a perfect addition to our breakfast table, a great snack for after school, and even a light dessert after dinner. And, honestly, this holiday cranberry bread makes the perfect holiday gift!
The kids devour this nutritious Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze when I serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola. The yogurt adds some extra protein and calcium, and the granola provides a satisfying crunch. You can also try serving it with a side of fresh fruit for a complete and balanced breakfast.
This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! I often slice it up and pack it in the kids’ lunchboxes with a small container of almond butter for dipping. It’s a great way to add some whole grains and fruit to their diets.
For a special treat, I love to toast a slice of this cranberry orange sweet bread and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of honey. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for impressing guests or just indulging in a little self-care.
This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is also a wonderful addition to holiday gatherings. It’s a beautiful and delicious bread that’s sure to impress your friends and family. I like to slice it up and arrange it on a platter with other festive treats like cookies and candies.
Presentation is key when it comes to getting kids to try new things. I like to cut this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze into fun shapes using cookie cutters. It makes it more appealing to the little ones and encourages them to take a bite.
If you have any leftover Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze (which is rare in our house!), you can use it to make delicious French toast. Simply dip the slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, and then cook them in a skillet until golden brown. This is a great way to use up any stale bread and create a delicious and nutritious breakfast.
Guests always rave about this healthy Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze. Everyone loves this bread! You should give this maple glazed chicken with sweet potatoes a try too!
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
I know you probably have some questions about this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze, so I’ve compiled a list of some of the most common ones. Don’t worry, fellow moms, I’ve got you covered!
Q: Is this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze really nutritious enough for growing kids?
A: Absolutely! This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is packed with whole fruit, which provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Plus, you can easily add in some whole wheat flour for extra fiber. It’s a much healthier alternative to store-bought breads that are often loaded with sugar and preservatives.
Q: What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze?
A: I get it! Picky eaters can be a challenge. Try cutting the bread into fun shapes or serving it with a dip they love, like almond butter or Greek yogurt. You can also sneak in some extra nutrients by adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseed meal to the batter. And don’t give up! Keep offering it, and eventually, they might surprise you.
Q: Can I meal prep this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze for busy weeks ahead?
A: Yes, absolutely! This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that’s designed for baking, as some gluten-free flours can be a bit dry. You may also need to add a little extra liquid to the batter to achieve the right consistency.
Q: Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can! I often reduce the amount of sugar in my baking recipes. You can reduce the sugar in this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze by up to 1/4 cup without significantly affecting the taste or texture. You can also add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of natural sweetness.
Q: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh cranberries?
A: Yes, you can, but fresh cranberries are much better! If you are going to use dried, then rehydrate them with warm water.
Q: Can I add nuts to this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze?
A: Yes, absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds would be a delicious addition to this bread. Just fold them into the batter along with the cranberries.
Q: My Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is dry. What did I do wrong?
A: Overbaking is the most common cause of dry bread. Be sure to check the bread for doneness after 50 minutes of baking. Also, overmixing the batter can also result in dry bread. Mix until just combined, and don’t overmix.
Final Thoughts:
This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is more than just a recipe; it’s a symbol of our commitment to nourishing our families, even amidst the chaos of busy mom life. It’s a reminder that good nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s about finding simple, wholesome recipes that your family loves and that fit into your lifestyle. I hope you enjoy my orange glazed cranberry bread recipe!
My Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze Nutrition Hacks:
- Sneak in some veggies: Add a 1/2 cup of shredded zucchini or carrots to the batter for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Boost the protein: Add a scoop of protein powder to the batter for a more filling and satisfying bread.
- Use whole grains: Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
Here are a few family-tested healthy Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze variations:
- Chocolate Chip Cranberry Orange Bread: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent treat.
- Nutty Cranberry Orange Bread: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture.
- Spiced Cranberry Orange Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the batter for a warm and comforting flavor.
My son loves the chocolate chip version, while my daughter prefers the nutty version. I personally love the spiced version, especially during the holiday season. I also love these Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze (VIDEO) – NatashasKitchen.com.

I encourage you to make this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze your own. Experiment with different ingredients and variations until you find the perfect combination for your family’s taste buds. And most importantly, have fun in the kitchen!
I hope this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze brings a little bit of joy and nourishment to your family’s table. Remember, you’re doing a great job, mama! Keep nourishing your family with love and simple, wholesome food. I am here for you! I am so glad to have shared this Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze with you. Remember, you are not alone, and for another great recipe check out The Best Glazed Cranberry Orange Bread – Mel’s Kitchen Cafe. And of course, if this bread isn’t what you are looking for, perhaps you’ll find something at Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread – Sally’s Baking.
This Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is a wonderful recipe that I can’t wait to share with you all.
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Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze
This Cranberry Orange Bread is a festive and flavorful treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Bursting with juicy cranberries and bright citrus notes, topped with a sweet glaze, this loaf is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
- Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, orange juice, and orange zest. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped cranberries.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread.
- Slice and serve.
Notes
For a richer flavor, try toasting the bread and serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

