Introduction

There’s something magical about the aroma of a freshly baked loaf wafting through the kitchen — warm, citrusy, and sweet with just the right touch of tartness. This Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf captures all that magic in one golden, moist slice. It’s the kind of treat that feels special enough for the holidays yet simple enough to bake on a cozy weekend morning.

The combination of tangy cranberries and bright orange zest creates a balance of flavors that’s both refreshing and comforting. A glossy orange glaze drips beautifully over the top, adding a touch of elegance and irresistible sweetness.

Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or as a light dessert with tea, this loaf is pure sunshine in bread form — a cheerful and flavorful addition to your family’s favorite baked recipes.

 

 

What You Need

For the Loaf

• 1 ½ cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 ½ cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)

For the Orange Syrup

• ⅓ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• ⅓ cup sugar
• For the Orange Glaze
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice

 

How to Make It

• Step 1 – Prep the Pan:
  Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
• Step 2 – Mix Dry Ingredients:
  In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Step 3 – Combine Wet Ingredients:
  In a large bowl, whisk yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, vanilla, and oil until smooth.
• Step 4 – Combine Mixtures:
  Gradually whisk dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just blended.
• Step 5 – Add Cranberries:
  Toss cranberries with 1 tablespoon of flour, then fold gently into the batter.
• Step 6 – Bake the Loaf:
  Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 50–55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
• Step 7 – Make the Syrup:
  In a small saucepan, combine orange juice and sugar. Cook over medium heat until sugar dissolves, then simmer 3 minutes.
• Step 8 – Brush with Syrup:
  Poke holes in the warm loaf, brush with syrup, let it soak, and brush again. Cool completely.
• Step 9 – Make and Add the Glaze:
  Whisk confectioners’ sugar and orange juice until thick but pourable. Drizzle over the cooled loaf, letting it drip naturally down the sides. Let it harden before slicing.

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and refreshing citrus flavor with juicy cranberries
• Moist, tender crumb that stays fresh for days
• Perfect holiday brunch or easy dessert recipe
• Simple ingredients and minimal prep time
• Eye-catching glaze that adds bakery-style charm

 

Tips

• Don’t overmix the batter; it keeps the loaf tender.
• Use full-fat yogurt for a richer texture.
• For deeper flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract to the glaze.

 

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, no need to thaw them.
2. Can I make it gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
3. What if I don’t have yogurt? Sour cream works great too.
4. How long does it stay fresh? Up to 4 days at room temperature.
5. Can I freeze the loaf? Yes, up to 3 months (without glaze).
6. Can I skip the syrup? It adds moisture, but you can omit it.
7. What’s the best pan size? 9×5-inch loaf pan works perfectly.
8. How do I make it less sweet? Reduce sugar by ¼ cup.
9. Can I use orange juice from a bottle? Fresh gives better flavor.
10. How do I store leftovers? Wrap tightly or use an airtight container.

 

Health Benefits

• This loaf delivers the goodness of vitamin C from fresh oranges, antioxidants from cranberries, and protein from yogurt. It’s a sweet treat that offers a light nutritional boost — perfect for balanced indulgence.

 How to Serve

• Serve slices warm with a pat of butter, or at room temperature with tea or coffee. It’s also delicious as part of a holiday brunch spread or an afternoon snack platter.

 

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Bake the loaf one day ahead, brush with syrup, and glaze before serving.
• Store: Keep at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate up to a week.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil; thaw overnight before glazing.

Conclusion

This Glazed Cranberry Orange Loaf brings together the best of comfort baking — simple, wholesome ingredients, a stunning presentation, and a flavor that feels like pure joy. Whether it’s a festive gift or a cozy weekend bake, this loaf promises smiles in every slice.