### Introduction
Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze is a delightful quick bread that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright citrus flavor of oranges. Topped with a light, sweet glaze, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snacking, or as a festive addition to your holiday spread.
### Origin and Cultural Significance
Cranberries have a deep-rooted history in North America, especially in the northeastern United States and Canada, where they are native. This fruit has been a staple in North American diets for centuries, famously featured in Thanksgiving meals. Cranberry bread, often paired with orange for a complementary sweet-tart flavor, is a popular treat during the fall and winter seasons. The combination celebrates the harvest season and adds a splash of color and zest to holiday tables.
### Ingredients Quantity
– **All-purpose flour**: 2 cups (250 grams)
– **Granulated sugar**: 1 cup (200 grams)
– **Baking powder**: 1 1/2 teaspoons
– **Baking soda**: 1/2 teaspoon
– **Salt**: 1/2 teaspoon
– **Fresh cranberries**: 1 1/2 cups (150 grams), roughly chopped
– **Orange zest**: 1 tablespoon (from 1 large orange)
– **Orange juice**: 3/4 cup (180 ml), freshly squeezed
– **Vegetable oil**: 1/3 cup (80 ml)
– **Egg**: 1 large
– **Vanilla extract**: 1 teaspoon
#### Simple Glaze
– **Powdered sugar**: 1 cup (120 grams)
– **Orange juice**: 2-3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
### Optional Additions
– **Chopped nuts**: such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture
– **Dried cranberries**: for a sweeter, chewy contrast
– **Cinnamon or nutmeg**: for a warm spice note
– **Orange extract**: for a stronger citrus flavor
### Tips for Success
1. **Use Fresh Cranberries**: Fresh cranberries give the best tart flavor and texture. If using frozen cranberries, don’t thaw them; just add directly to the batter.
2. **Avoid Overmixing**: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid a dense texture; overmixing can make the bread tough.
3. **Measure Accurately**: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to prevent a dry bread.
4. **Check Doneness**: Test the bread with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
### Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Add Cranberries and Orange Zest**: Stir in the chopped cranberries and orange zest to coat them with the flour mixture.
4. **Combine Wet Ingredients**:
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, oil, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. **Mix the Batter**:
– Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Bake**:
– Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
– Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. **Prepare the Glaze**:
– In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth and pourable. Drizzle over the cooled bread.
8. **Serve**:
– Slice and serve the bread. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
### Description
Cranberry Orange Bread is a moist and tender loaf with bursts of tart cranberries and a bright citrus flavor from fresh orange zest and juice. The simple glaze adds a touch of sweetness that complements the tangy cranberries, making each bite a delightful balance of flavors.
### Nutritional Information (per slice, assuming 12 slices)
– **Calories**: Approximately 210
– **Protein**: 3 grams
– **Carbohydrates**: 35 grams
– **Fat**: 8 grams
– **Saturated Fat**: 1 gram
– **Fiber**: 1 gram
– **Sugar**: 20 grams
### Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze is a beautiful, flavorful treat that brings together the best of seasonal ingredients. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a standout addition to any meal or gathering, especially during the holiday season.
### Recommendation
Enjoy this bread as a delightful breakfast option or afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. For a healthier version, you can reduce the sugar or replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Embrace healthful indulgence by savoring a slice as a treat, balanced with mindful eating habits and a varied diet. This bread is a delicious reminder that indulgence can also be wholesome and satisfying.