If you’re searching for a loaf that bursts with bright, tangy flavor and has the perfect balance of crunchy texture, look no further than this Orange Cranberry Walnut Loaf Recipe. Each bite delivers a wonderful harmony of sweet, tart cranberries paired with zesty orange and the warm crunch of toasted walnuts, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. It’s one of those recipes that quickly becomes a loved favorite, brightening up any occasion with its fresh and cozy notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Orange Cranberry Walnut Loaf Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that combine to create a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Each component is carefully chosen to complement one another—from the citrusy punch provided by fresh orange juice and zest to the delightful crunch of walnuts and the tart sweetness of cranberries.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your loaf, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1½ cups granulated sugar: Adds essential sweetness that balances the tart cranberries.
- 3 tsp baking powder: Helps your loaf rise beautifully and keeps it light.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Works with the acidic orange juice for perfect leavening.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the loaf.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding richness.
- 1½ cups orange juice (fresh or bottled): The star ingredient that gives moisture and zesty brightness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and keeps the loaf tender.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
- Zest of 2 oranges: Intensifies the citrus flavor throughout the loaf.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, halved: Provide those lovely tart pops and vibrant color.
- 1½ cups chopped walnuts: Bring a satisfying crunch and toasty nuttiness.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds a cozy warmth that pairs beautifully with orange and cranberry.
- ¼ tsp nutmeg: Gives a subtle hint of spice that makes the loaf feel like a special treat.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the optional glaze that adds sweetness and sparkle.
- 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice: Mixed with powdered sugar for a luscious orange glaze.
- Extra orange zest for garnish: Adds an elegant touch and fresh aroma when serving.
How to Make Orange Cranberry Walnut Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two standard loaf pans to ensure your batter releases easily after baking. Properly prepping your pans sets the stage for a neat, beautiful loaf every time.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients makes sure every slice of your Orange Cranberry Walnut Loaf Recipe is speckled with bursts of warmth and spice.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the orange juice, melted butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest. The bright orange juice keeps the loaf moist and zesty while the melted butter adds richness that melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined. Fold in your cranberries and walnuts carefully—avoid overmixing as you want those bursts of cranberry and nut crunch to remain intact and distinct throughout the loaf.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and place them in your oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. This bake time ensures the loaf is baked through but stays moist and tender inside.
Step 6: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, allow the loaves to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. To add a lovely finishing touch, mix the powdered sugar with fresh orange juice until smooth and drizzle over the cooled loaves. Sprinkle with extra orange zest to decorate and amplify that fresh, citrus aroma.
How to Serve Orange Cranberry Walnut Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your Orange Cranberry Walnut Loaf Recipe with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of the orange glaze really brightens the presentation. A sprinkle of extra orange zest or even a few fresh cranberries on top creates an inviting and festive look perfect for sharing.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. For a more indulgent brunch, serve alongside creamy mascarpone or a smear of softened butter to enhance the rich textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your loaf by slicing it thick and serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of honey or orange syrup. You can even turn it into a delightful dessert by layering slices with vanilla ice cream and roasted nuts for a decadent treat that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your Orange Cranberry Walnut Loaf Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the loaf moist and soft, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep your loaf fresh for longer, slice it and freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Frozen slices last up to three months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge for convenient, quick enjoyment.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave until heated through. This brings back the fresh-baked warmth and soft texture, almost like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
While dried cranberries work in a pinch, they will add more sweetness and less tartness compared to fresh or frozen cranberries. If using dried, consider reducing the sugar slightly to balance the flavors.
What if I don’t have fresh oranges for juice and zest?
Fresh oranges deliver the best flavor, but bottled 100% orange juice and zest from frozen orange peel can be good substitutes. Just be sure the juice is not from concentrate with added sugar to keep the loaf balanced.
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but it’s important to use one designed for baking that includes xanthan gum to maintain the loaf’s structure and tenderness.
How can I make this loaf vegan?
To make a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, and swap the butter for a plant-based alternative. Use a plant-based milk mix with orange juice for moisture, and keep an eye on the texture as you mix.
Can I add other nuts or fruits?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work wonderfully instead of walnuts, and dried fruits like chopped apricots or raisins add delightful variety. Just be mindful of balancing sweetness and moisture to ensure your loaf turns out perfect.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Cranberry Walnut Loaf Recipe is truly a joyous treat to bake and share, bursting with vibrant flavors and comforting textures that bring a smile with every slice. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy moment at home, it’s a recipe that invites warmth and happiness to your kitchen. Give it a try and watch it become one of your all-time favorites!
Print
Orange Cranberry Walnut Loaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 loaves (16–20 slices total)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Orange Cranberry Walnut Loaf is a moist, flavorful quick bread perfect for breakfast or dessert. Bursting with fresh orange flavor, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, it’s lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. A simple orange glaze on top adds a sweet, citrusy finish.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ cups orange juice (fresh or bottled)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 oranges
Additional Mix-ins
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, halved
- 1½ cups chopped walnuts
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice
- Extra orange zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two standard loaf pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
- Blend wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, orange juice, melted butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until everything is moistened. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
- Fold in cranberries and walnuts: Carefully fold in the halved cranberries and chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared loaf pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and glaze (optional): Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely. To make the glaze, mix the powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaves and garnish with extra orange zest.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh orange juice to enhance the flavor, but bottled juice works fine.
- Adjust the amount of orange juice in the glaze to achieve your preferred consistency—thicker glaze will hold shape better.
- Frozen cranberries can be used without thawing but may slightly discolor the batter.
- Store the loaf wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweet and tangy finish.
