There’s something magical about the combination of cranberries and oranges. The tart berries, the fresh citrus aroma, and the soft, tender crumb create a loaf that feels warm and cheerful in every slice. My Cranberry Orange Bread with Maple Glaze is one of those recipes I turn to when I want a simple but impressive bake. It’s bright, seasonal, lightly sweet, and perfect for breakfast, snacking, or gifting.
The maple glaze on top adds just the right finishing touch—sweet, glossy, and perfect against the citrusy crumb.
Quick Facts
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50–55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Bread
This is a loaf that tastes like something from a cozy café but is surprisingly easy to make at home. The cranberries bring bursts of tartness while the orange zest brightens every bite. The bread stays moist for days, and the maple glaze adds a lovely warm sweetness on top.
It’s great for holidays, brunch tables, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell absolutely wonderful while it bakes.
Ingredients
For the Bread
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw frozen)
¾ cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon orange zest
¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Maple Glaze
½ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1–2 teaspoons milk (to adjust consistency)
How to Make Cranberry Orange Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and orange zest. The zest perfumes the entire mixture beautifully.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk orange juice, oil or melted butter, eggs, and vanilla.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in the cranberries. Do not overmix—this keeps the bread soft.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar with maple syrup and a splash of milk until smooth and pourable.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Let the bread cool completely before drizzling generously with the maple glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices warm or at room temperature.
Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced tea.
Add butter or cream cheese for extra richness.
Pack slices in lunchboxes or enjoy as a quick morning snack.
Tips for Customization
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Use dried cranberries if you don’t have fresh ones.
Swap maple glaze for a simple orange icing.
Make a healthier version by replacing half the flour with whole-wheat flour.
Fold in chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
Nutritional Info (Approx. per slice)
Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 8g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 18g
Values may vary depending on ingredients and glaze amount.
FAQs
Can I freeze this bread?
Yes. Wrap the loaf or slices tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature.
Can I skip the glaze?
You can. The bread is delicious on its own, but the maple glaze adds extra flavor and moisture.
Can I use bottled orange juice?
Fresh juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch. Add extra zest to boost citrus flavor.
My cranberries sank to the bottom. How do I stop this?
Toss cranberries in a little flour before folding them in. This helps suspend them in the batter.
Can I make this into muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes. Reduce baking time to 18–22 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Orange Bread with Maple Glaze is one of my favorite bakes when I want something bright, comforting, and simple. It always turns out moist, flavorful, and festive. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or gifting it to someone special, this loaf brings sunshine to any day.
