Amazing Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread

This Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread is a deliciously moist quick bread packed with tart cranberries and infused with bright citrus flavor. Topped with a sweet and tangy orange glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. The combination of zesty orange and tart cranberries makes every bite burst with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this cranberry bread because it’s simple to make but tastes like something special. The balance of tart cranberries and sweet orange glaze makes it incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of treat I enjoy during the holidays, but honestly, it works all year round. Whether I’m baking for guests, bringing something to a potluck, or just treating myself, this bread always gets rave reviews. The glaze takes it over the top—moist, sweet, and citrusy all at once.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Fresh or frozen cranberries
• Orange zest
• Orange juice
• Eggs
• Butter (melted)
• Vanilla extract
• Milk or buttermilk

For the glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Orange juice
• Orange zest (optional, for extra zing)

directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

2. In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

3. I fold in the cranberries and orange zest so the berries get evenly coated with flour.

4. In a separate bowl, I combine the eggs, orange juice, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk.

5. I pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined—being careful not to overmix.

6. I pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. While the bread cools, I whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth.

8. Once the bread is slightly cooled, I drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10–12 slices and takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare, plus 50–60 minutes of baking time. The glaze adds a few extra minutes once the bread has cooled.

Variations

• I sometimes swap out the cranberries for blueberries when I want a sweeter version.

• Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch.

• A cinnamon swirl can be added to the batter for a warming twist.

• For a dairy-free version, I use almond milk and plant-based butter.

• I’ve also used a lemon glaze instead of orange when I’m out of oranges—it’s just as refreshing.

storage/reheating

I store the cranberry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want it to last longer, I refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, I like to warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast them lightly for a crisp edge.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, I’ve used dried cranberries before. I just soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to rehydrate before adding them to the batter.

How do I keep cranberries from sinking to the bottom?

I toss the cranberries in a bit of flour before mixing them into the batter. This helps suspend them throughout the loaf.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely. I substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour, and it turns out great every time.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes, I’ve made these into muffins by dividing the batter into a muffin tin and baking for about 18–22 minutes.

Why is my bread too dense?

Overmixing the batter can make the bread dense. I mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep it light and tender.

Conclusion

This Orange-Glazed Cranberry Bread is a recipe I keep coming back to. It’s easy, delicious, and makes my kitchen smell incredible. The mix of tart cranberries, zesty orange, and sweet glaze creates a loaf that’s both refreshing and comforting. Whether I serve it for brunch or enjoy a slice with tea, it’s always a hit.