Christmas Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze

Few things capture the spirit of the holidays quite like the sweet aroma of Christmas Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze wafting through the kitchen. This moist, tender quick bread combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright, citrusy freshness of orange — creating a flavor combination that’s both cheerful and comforting.

Topped with a delicate orange glaze that sparkles like winter snow, this bread isn’t just delicious — it’s stunningly festive. Each slice offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it an irresistible addition to any Christmas breakfast table, dessert spread, or afternoon tea gathering.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels like Christmas baked into a loaf. The blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange is so refreshing and uplifting, especially in the chilly winter months. The bread itself is incredibly soft and fluffy, with little pops of cranberry in every bite — and the glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness and sparkle.

It’s also one of those recipes that makes your kitchen smell amazing — citrus, vanilla, and baked goodness all mingling together. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginner bakers, yet elegant enough to impress guests. I love gifting loaves of this bread wrapped in festive paper — it’s edible happiness!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Cranberry Orange Bread is a must-try because it’s:

• Festive and beautiful: Perfect for holiday gatherings or edible gifting.
• Flavor-packed: Bright orange zest and juicy cranberries create an unforgettable contrast.
• Easy to make: No yeast or complicated techniques — just mix, pour, and bake.
• Versatile: Works as breakfast, dessert, or a teatime snack.
• Crowd-pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike.

It’s that one holiday bake you’ll find yourself making again and again — long after Christmas is over.

Preparation and Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55–60 minutes
• Cooling Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 8–10 slices (1 loaf)
• Calories: Approximately 260 calories per slice
• Course: Dessert / Breakfast
• Cuisine: American (Holiday Baking)

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
• ¾ cup (180ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (150g) fresh or frozen cranberries (halved if large)

For the Orange Glaze:

• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons orange juice (adjust for consistency)
• ½ teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine sugar and zest: In a large mixing bowl, rub orange zest into the granulated sugar with your fingertips — this releases essential oils and intensifies the flavor.
4. Add wet ingredients: Add orange juice, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Whisk until smooth.
5. Combine wet and dry: Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined — don’t overmix.
6. Add cranberries: Fold in cranberries, reserving a few to sprinkle on top for decoration.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Make the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth and slightly thick. Drizzle over the cooled bread.
10. Decorate (optional): Garnish with extra orange zest or a few sugared cranberries for a festive finish.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the loaf pan.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl.
Step 3: Combine the orange zest and sugar in another bowl to enhance citrus flavor.
Step 4: Add wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
Step 5: Gently fold in the dry mixture, then add cranberries.
Step 6: Pour batter into pan and smooth the top.
Step 7: Bake until golden brown and firm in the center.
Step 8: Cool completely before adding glaze.
Step 9: Prepare the orange glaze and drizzle over the loaf.
Step 10: Slice and enjoy your fragrant, moist cranberry orange bread!

How to Serve

• Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.
• Perfect with coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced tea.
• Can be served as a Christmas breakfast, holiday dessert, or a giftable loaf wrapped in parchment and ribbon.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style twist.

Recipe Tips

• Rub the orange zest into sugar to intensify the citrus flavor.
• Use fresh cranberries for the best tart-sweet flavor.
• If using frozen cranberries, don’t thaw — add them directly to the batter to avoid streaking.
• Don’t overmix the batter; it can make the bread dense.
• Let the bread cool completely before glazing.
• For a sparkling look, top with sugared cranberries or a sprinkle of coarse sugar before baking.

Recipe Variations

1. Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread: Add ½ cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch.
2. Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
3. Cranberry Lemon Bread: Replace orange juice and zest with lemon for a tangier twist.
4. Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Bread: Swirl in a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese before baking.
5. Mini Loaves or Muffins: Pour into mini loaf pans or muffin tins for quick bakes — perfect for gifting!
6. Orange White Chocolate Drizzle: Replace glaze with melted white chocolate mixed with orange zest.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unglazed loaf for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then glaze before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9x5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack
• Parchment paper

Conclusion

Christmas Cranberry Orange Bread with Glaze is a holiday classic that brings together the best seasonal flavors — tangy cranberries, sweet citrus, and buttery tenderness — all wrapped in one stunning loaf. The simple orange glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness and sparkle, making this bread as beautiful as it is delicious.

Whether you bake it for breakfast, serve it with afternoon tea, or gift it to loved ones, this bread radiates warmth and cheer. With its vibrant colors and festive aroma, it’s the very essence of Christmas baking — pure joy in every slice.