If you’re searching for a delightful treat that perfectly balances zesty brightness with cozy, sweet warmth, the Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe is here to win your heart and palate. This bread captures the essence of fresh cranberries bursting through tender, moist dough, all crowned with a shiny, citrusy orange glaze that makes every bite sing. It’s a beautiful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for cozy mornings, festive gatherings, or simply a special snack that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your favorites to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a creamy light beige batter mixed with whole purple and dark red berries scattered evenly throughout. A white spatula with a brown handle rests inside the bowl, partially covered in batter and berries. Next to the bowl is a small white dish filled with additional dark red berries. The scene captures a simple mixing moment with soft, natural light highlighting the smooth texture of the batter and the round, glossy berries photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s the tangy buttermilk that adds moisture and a gentle bite, the burst of fresh cranberries for that sharp fruity pop, or the orange zest that brings brightness and aroma to the bread. Together, they create a loaf that is comforting and vibrant all at once.

All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups total): The foundation that gives the bread structure and softness.
Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons + 1/2 cup): Adds sweetness without overpowering the natural tartness of cranberries.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): A warm spice that layers subtle depth in the streusel topping.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, cold and cubed): Cubed butter makes the streusel crumbly and rich.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the bread rise to a tender and fluffy crumb.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
Large egg (1, room temperature): Binds ingredients and adds moisture and richness.
Light or dark brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds a caramel-like depth to the bread.
Buttermilk (1 cup, room temperature): Provides a slight tang and tender crumb.
Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the bread moist and flavorful.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, inviting aroma.
Orange zest (2 teaspoons): Bursts with fresh citrus flavor and aroma that ties everything together.
Fresh or frozen cranberries (1 cup, do not thaw if frozen): The star ingredient for tartness and lovely color.
Optional chopped pecans or walnuts (1/2 cup): Adds crunch and nuttiness for extra texture.
Confectioners’ sugar (1 cup): The base for the silky orange glaze.
Orange juice (1-2 tablespoons): Makes the glaze bright and just sweet enough.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray. This ensures your bread won’t stick and will come out perfectly every time.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

Whisk together flour, sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl, then cut in the cold, cubed butter with a pastry cutter, your hands, or two forks until it looks like pea-sized crumbs. This streusel adds an irresistible sweet and crunchy topping to our bread. Keep it cold by refrigerating until you’re ready to use it in the next step.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, mix the remaining flour, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients are essential to achieve the perfect rise and texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the egg with both sugars until evenly combined. Then stir in buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and orange zest. This mixture brings moisture, sweetness, and that unmistakable citrus brightness which elevates the bread beautifully.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Components

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, whisking gently just until combined. Avoid over-mixing here to keep the bread light and tender. Then fold in fresh or frozen cranberries along with optional nuts if you’re using them for added crunch and flavor.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Sprinkle the chilled streusel evenly on top, gently pressing it down so it sticks nicely. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, covering loosely with foil halfway through to prevent over-browning. Use a toothpick to check doneness – it should come out clean. Let the bread cool completely in the pan placed on a wire rack.

Step 7: Make and Add the Glaze

Whisk confectioners’ sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice until you reach a smooth glaze consistency. Drizzle this over the cooled bread to add a shiny, sweet citrus finish that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 8: Slice and Enjoy

Now the best part: slice your Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread and dive in! It’s fantastic warm or at room temperature, with every slice balanced perfectly between sweet, tart, and fragrant.

How to Serve Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe

The image shows a rectangular metal baking pan with a layered dessert inside, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a pale yellow custard-like mixture. Scattered throughout this layer are dark blueberries, some visible on the surface. On top of this is a crumbly brown topping, unevenly spread, with chunks of different sizes and a rough texture. The pan is viewed from above, showing the full rectangular shape and consistent layers. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a pretty presentation, sprinkle some extra orange zest or a handful of fresh cranberries on top right after glazing. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy touch, especially charming during the holidays.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee. For brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs, cream cheese, or soft cheeses to balance sweetness with savory. It’s equally lovely at snack time, with butter or your favorite preserves.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut smaller chunks and serve as part of a festive bread basket or on a dessert platter garnished with fresh fruit and nuts. You can even turn leftover slices into French toast for an extra-special breakfast treat that highlights that zesty glaze and tart cranberries.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread covered at room temperature for up to one day or store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. This preserves freshness while letting those flavors meld even more.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place slices in freezer bags. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or a couple of hours at room temperature for a fresh-baked feel anytime.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-baked warmth, toast slices lightly or microwave them for about 15-20 seconds. The orange glaze softens, and the bread regains its tender, moist texture without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure not to thaw them before folding them into the batter to avoid discoloring the dough and extra moisture that could affect the texture.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just make sure your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free certified for best results.

How long does the bread stay fresh once glazed?

The bread remains delicious for up to one week if stored properly in the refrigerator. The glaze keeps it moist and sweet, but try to eat it within a few days for peak freshness.

Can I omit the nuts in the recipe?

Definitely! Nuts are optional and can be left out entirely or substituted with seeds if you prefer. The bread’s flavor and texture will still be wonderful.

What can I use instead of orange juice for the glaze?

If you don’t have orange juice, lemon juice or a splash of apple juice work well too, but the bright citrus flavor from orange juice really complements the cranberries best.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Orange Glazed Cranberry Bread Recipe. It feels like sunshine and comfort all at once, with every slice telling a story of fresh citrus, tart cranberries, and cozy streusel. I encourage you to bake this loaf soon – it’s a perfect companion to your morning coffee, afternoon snack, or holiday table, and I promise it will bring smiles and delicious memories every time.